Fashion crossing borders

Marathi actor Abhyangh Kuvalekar has been chosen as the brand ambassador of a Pakistani designer label.
Marathi actor Abhyangh Kuvalekar is crossing borders, at least as far as his work is concerned. He is all set to represent the nation as the poster boy for a popular Pakistan-based men’s designer label. “It all started in Delhi, when, the two designers saw my pictures through a coordinator.In fact, I met them in Delhi and during the meeting they got to know of my body of work,” says Abhyangh.
So what clicked in his favour? His middle-eastern looks, he says. “I was always told that I have non-Maharashtrian looks. That seems to have worked in my favour,” says the actor who has starred in films like Sanai Choughade, Tya Ratri Paus Hota and Saatchya Aat Gharat.
The Pakistani designer-duo interestingly zeroed upon Abhyangh after having seen countless Persian, Pakistani and even Indian models. “Since we are going international with our brand, we wanted someone who perfectly represented the Asian man — sharp features and expressive eyes. We went through a lot of middle-eastern, Indian and Arab models but finally found Abhyangh’s face to have the elegance and class that we wanted,” says Hesham, one of the designers of the label.
Interestingly, this is the first time that the designers have selected an Indian face for endorsing their collection. “We were clear on the face we wanted, be it any nationality. Makes us happy that Abhyangh is Indian. In some way, this will take the association of the two countries ahead. I am sure it will attract the right attention. But it’s high time for such associations. The two countries are so rich in their tradition and culture. Plus, art is truly beyond boundaries,” Hesham adds.
This is the first time that the model is shooting for men’s ethnic wear. “We are planning of giving him a truly international look. Designer blazers, casual jackets as well as sherwanis and kurtas, which are our forte,” he says.
The visa difficulties prompted the designers to plan the shoot in Dubai, where Abhyangh will pose with the picturesque deserts in the backdrop. “I am looking forward to the shoot. Bollywood is importing so much of talent from Pakistan, so I am happy to be a part of the reverse trend!” smiles Abhyangh.
pooja.kulkarni@timesgroup.com