This viral initiative, spearheaded by students of an NGO, showcases resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.
A Fashionable Revolution: Young Slum Creatives Redefine Style in Lucknow
A Fashionable Revolution: Young Slum Creatives Redefine Style in Lucknow
A stunning fashion show by slum children in Lucknow is capturing hearts and sparking dialogue across India.
In an inspiring display of talent and resourcefulness, a group of underprivileged school children from a Lucknow slum has taken the Indian fashion scene by storm. Their fashion show, featuring original outfits crafted from donated clothing, has gone viral and transformed them into local sensations. Most of the models, aged between 12 and 17, creatively tailored their own garments—primarily in hues of red and gold—while the gritty landscape of their community served as an unconventional yet poignant runway.
The concept originated from the children’s desire to embody the glamour they observed in Bollywood and international fashion circles. The video that captured their work was shared by the NGO Innovation for Change, which supports around 400 children in the region by providing essentials like food and education. The project, dubbed "Yeh laal rang" or "The Colour Red," drew direct inspiration from the renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s bridal collection. Mehak Kannojia, one of the featured models, revealed how they closely studied fashion trends on social media and utilized donations to merge creativity with social commentary.
Over the course of just three to four days, the group stitched approximately a dozen outfits, mirroring the aesthetics of high-profile models they admired. Their process also included playful elements, showcasing genuine interactions that emerged spontaneously during the shoot. Their lightheartedness and enjoyment brought forth an authenticity that resonated with viewers.
The impact of the video was immediate. After Mukherjee reshared the footage with an endorsement, it garnered tremendous attention online. The project has not only celebrated the children's skills but also raised awareness about the challenges faced by those in impoverished communities. The young fashionistas have received invitations to participate in radio shows, media events, and even visits from Bollywood personalities like Tamannah Bhatia, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
However, the project has stirred some debate, raising concerns that the portrayal of young girls dressed as brides may inadvertently contribute to the ongoing issue of child marriage in India. In response, the NGO clarified their stance on Instagram, asserting that the initiative aims to empower these girls, spotlighting their talent rather than promoting outdated traditions.
The overwhelming reception has left the children feeling like they are living a dream, with calls to meet their fashion idol Mukherjee firmly on their wish lists. As the conversation surrounding their project continues, it serves as an emblem of hope and creativity emerging from the most unexpected places.
The concept originated from the children’s desire to embody the glamour they observed in Bollywood and international fashion circles. The video that captured their work was shared by the NGO Innovation for Change, which supports around 400 children in the region by providing essentials like food and education. The project, dubbed "Yeh laal rang" or "The Colour Red," drew direct inspiration from the renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s bridal collection. Mehak Kannojia, one of the featured models, revealed how they closely studied fashion trends on social media and utilized donations to merge creativity with social commentary.
Over the course of just three to four days, the group stitched approximately a dozen outfits, mirroring the aesthetics of high-profile models they admired. Their process also included playful elements, showcasing genuine interactions that emerged spontaneously during the shoot. Their lightheartedness and enjoyment brought forth an authenticity that resonated with viewers.
The impact of the video was immediate. After Mukherjee reshared the footage with an endorsement, it garnered tremendous attention online. The project has not only celebrated the children's skills but also raised awareness about the challenges faced by those in impoverished communities. The young fashionistas have received invitations to participate in radio shows, media events, and even visits from Bollywood personalities like Tamannah Bhatia, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
However, the project has stirred some debate, raising concerns that the portrayal of young girls dressed as brides may inadvertently contribute to the ongoing issue of child marriage in India. In response, the NGO clarified their stance on Instagram, asserting that the initiative aims to empower these girls, spotlighting their talent rather than promoting outdated traditions.
The overwhelming reception has left the children feeling like they are living a dream, with calls to meet their fashion idol Mukherjee firmly on their wish lists. As the conversation surrounding their project continues, it serves as an emblem of hope and creativity emerging from the most unexpected places.
