Imagine a grand royal courtyard where ancient Indian heritage meets the modern street energy, charged by Punjabi folk beats and martial movement. To celebrate a milestone of 15 years in fashion, designer Kunal Rawal took over the runway at the 19th edition of Hyundai India Couture Week 2026, presented by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI), in association with Nexxus New York. Unveiling his most expansive lineup yet, Rawal transported the audience into Rawalgarh – a cinematic, mythic sphere driven by original music, rich narrative, and a bold vision for modern menswear.
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG 
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG
Drawing inspiration from India’s rich textile heritage, military-inspired precision, and the evolving needs of the contemporary groom, Rawalgarh reinterpreted classic Indian craft through a high-performance lens. Rather than imposing rigid traditional constraints, Rawal’s design philosophy anchored the 130+ diverse looks in comfort, functionality, and effortless movement.
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG 
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG
Setting a dramatic tone, the showcase opened not with classic runway walking, but with performers portraying the martial art, titled “protectors of Rawalgarh”. Their entrance was followed by models performing fluid, action-packed movements across the runway, instantly proving the flexibility, comfort, and real-world ease engineered into each piece.
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG 
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG
The first segment of the collection introduced a composed palette of soft ivory, oyster, dusty pink, champagne, and washed gold. Reinterpreting traditional heritage, this line focused on lightweight chikankari, banarasi brocades, and tissue silk tailored into cropped bandhgalas and deconstructed sherwanis. Engineered for versatility, many ensembles featured hidden pockets, detachable details, and modular layering.
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG 
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG
As the presentation deepened, the collection transitioned into a darker, more regal landscape defined by deep charcoal, rich wines, and deep mulberries. Moving into finer details, the lineup highlighted intricate mukaish work and French knots set against light-shifting, dual-tone fabrics created with Rawal’s signature Dhup Chao process. Tailored as an Indian Black Tie alternative, these structured jackets and fluid trousers offered a bold take on evening couture.
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG 
Image Courtesy – sandipphotographer/IG
Beyond the garments, the presentation stood out for its immersive brand melody. Rather than relying on licensed tracks, the entire soundtrack was specially composed for the show in collaboration with musicians Akshay, IP, and Tanishq Seth. Accompanied by a star-studded audience including Sara Ali Khan, the showcase highlighted a new standard for modern Indian occasion wear – inclusive of all body shapes and sizes.
Ultimately, Rawalgarh served as a fitting tribute to 15 years of design innovation. By replacing rigid tradition with modular layers, functional pockets, and effortless silhouettes, Kunal Rawal reaffirmed his position at the forefront of contemporary menswear.
