One of the vanguards of Indian fashion, Tarun Tahiliani, showcased Navratan at Indian Couture Week 2026 by skipping the usual runway format. Instead, the master couturier transformed New Delhi’s historic Bikaner House into an immersive nine-room exhibition for unveiling a collection that featured the label’s signature craftsmanship and silhouettes. Corsets, fluid drapes, concept sarees, sharp layers and a muted yet regal colour palette were seen across the lineup. Even though the tailoring of the ensembles was complex, they all looked effortless; something the women of today can throw on without much fuss, and still be the conversation-starter in every room.
Over the decades, Tahiliani’s design ethos and brand language have remained consistent through the India modern philosophy; one rooted in contemporary, evolving traditions. The unorthodox way of showcasing was an intentional move, meant to exhibit the clothes for close inspection. Before the attendees walked past each design, they were compelled to stay a bit longer with the ensemble, which is rather impossible in the case of a runway show. Although unconventional, this kind of presentation honoured the meaning of true luxury where creations are not merely to be watched and forgotten, but to be carried in memory.
Apart from the twenty models wearing the newest collection, Bikaner House captured the journey of the label’s designs over the years with corset toiles on display, floral installations and a technology-led corridor that reimagined the rhythm of the runway through digital scenography. Strolling through the space felt like delving into the core of the atelier’s craftsmanship that goes behind each creation. It is this experiential nature of Tahiliani’s Navratan that made it linger in the audience’s mind, long after the lights went out. An integral part of this couture collection was Ang [meaning, body], which served as the conceptual foundation for Navratan. As a result of this, sculpted bodices, crafted for the natural contours of the human body, came to life. This was achieved by padded layers, hand construction and patience, above all.
When asked about his inspiration, he says, “My favourite word is Apsara or Goddess. I think women can just drape a little fabric around them and look divine.” While European corsetry ran across the collection, the quintessential Indian body was kept in mind while tailoring these masterpieces. Architectural silhouettes dissolved into fluid drapes, balancing sharp architectural lines with a sense of effortless ease.
At India Couture Week 2026, Tahiliani made a case for not only his brilliance but also the way couture is meant to be experienced. While retail occupies a massive part of how bespoke garments are perceived, true luxury is in the quieter moments of observance.
