distinguished service in the field of fashion, textile and craftsmanship. She was also honoured with 'Lifetime Achievement Award' by National Institute of Fashion Technology and 'Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Award' by the PHD-Chamber of Commerce. She has recently been awarded the 'Indira Gandhi Priyadarshini Award' for her achievement and contribution in the field of Fashion. Mother Teresa, Birju Maharaj and Pt. Hari Prasad were previous recipients of this award.
Her book "Costumes and Textiles of Royal India," published by Christies in 1999, chronicles the history of textiles and art design in India. ''India is unique because we have an organic craft-oriented fashion identity, one which the rest of the world has lost. Empowerment in this country comes from self-sufficiency and continued recognition of craftsmen's renewal of skills in a contemporary fashion for the Indian and international market, keeping the craft relevant. What's important is that textile crafts come under the umbrella of luxury. Heritage crafts is luxury in today's world of mass production and come in the bespoke area — be it weaving, embroideries or tie dyes. As part of our CSR, we work on revivalist collections with a social responsibility theme each year'' she explains.
Ritu Kumar at Lakme Fashion Week.
Ritu Kumar Bridal