Shivan & Narresh’s Cofounders Address Backlash and Share Original Intentions
Shivan & Narresh, the luxury Indian swimwear brand, has been making headlines recently due to some backlash they have been receiving. However, the cofounders, Shivan Bhatia and Narresh Kukreja, have come forward to address the issue and clarify their original intentions.
The brand, known for its bold designs and vibrant colors, has been a favorite among celebrities and fashionistas. But their recent collection, inspired by the Indian state of Kashmir, sparked controversy and backlash on social media. People accused the designers of cultural appropriation and insensitivity towards a region that has been facing political unrest.
In an exclusive interview, Shivan and Narresh sat down to discuss the issue and shed light on their intentions. The duo started by expressing their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received over the years and how they never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
“We have always drawn inspiration from our rich Indian heritage and culture. Our collections have been a reflection of that and a celebration of our roots,” said Shivan.
Narresh added, “The Kashmir collection was no different. We were inspired by the beauty and art of the region and wanted to showcase it through our designs. We had no intention of appropriating or disrespecting any culture.”
The designers also clarified that the collection was not meant to make a political statement. They were solely focused on highlighting the beauty of Kashmir and its traditional and intricate crafts.
“We wanted to bring attention to the region’s talented artisans and their crafts, which are slowly dying out due to the ongoing conflict. Our intention was to shed light on the positive aspects of Kashmir, rather than the negativity often associated with it,” explained Shivan.
The backlash against the brand also raised questions about diversity and representation in the fashion industry. Shivan & Narresh addressed this issue by emphasizing their efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity.
“From the very beginning, our brand has always been about embracing diversity. Our models come from all walks of life, and we have always celebrated our country’s diverse culture through our designs. We believe in breaking stereotypes and promoting inclusivity,” said Narresh.
The cofounders also shared their plans for the future, which includes collaborating with more artisans and showcasing different Indian cultures through their collections.
“We want to continue to celebrate India’s rich heritage and craftsmanship through our designs. We also want to make a positive impact in the communities we work with and give back to society in any way we can,” said Shivan.
Despite the backlash, Shivan & Narresh’s supporters have come to their defense, with many praising the brand for their unique designs and social initiatives.
“Shivan & Narresh have always been my go-to brand for swimwear. Their designs are not only beautiful but also hold a deeper meaning. I have full faith in their intentions and can’t wait to see what they have in store for us in the future,” said a loyal customer.
In conclusion, Shivan & Narresh’s cofounders have addressed the backlash they have been facing and clarified their original intentions. Their passion for celebrating Indian culture and promoting diversity is evident in their designs and actions. As they continue to strive towards their vision, let us support and appreciate their efforts to put Indian fashion on the global map.
