“Capturing the Unspoken: A Look into ‘Dhol Jaani'” with Mohsin Naveed Ranjha

1. The collection features rich velvet, intricate embroidery, and tinsel garlands. How do these elements pay homage to traditional South Asian craftsmanship?
   All these elements are very local. You look at photographs from colonial times you will see the nawabs and royals wearing velvet clothes, with meticulous gold thread hand embroidery. Even the  tinsel garlands we used to have them at weddings and celebrations not so long ago.
   
   
2. The editorial prominently features copper and ruby tones. What significance do these colors hold for you, and how do they connect with the theme of love and friendship?
   Copper and ruby tones naturally look beautiful as they give warmth and depth. Here we chose them because they looked great with models skin tone and the combination harmonises well. 
3. The editorial portrays a bond through subtle body language. What role do the styling elements, like jewelry and embroidery, play in expressing that intimacy?
   The jewellery and embroidery act as extensions of their connection—it is very ornate but we have kept it understated, there is a lot of layering to show depth of their bond. 
4. How do you balance traditional elements with a contemporary aesthetic to appeal to modern audiences?
   By staying rooted in authentic techniques but presenting them through modern silhouettes, versatile styling, and fresh perspectives.
   
5. The caption mentions “spaces between silence.” How do you translate such abstract concepts into tangible designs?
   It’s about subtlety—choosing understated poses and props that quietly tell a story without overwhelming it.  
6. Who do you envision wearing these pieces, and for what kind of occasions?
   Anyone who appreciates timeless craftsmanship. They are styled very creatively in the shoot but in real life you can maybe pick just the jacket and pair it with a kurta underneath for weddings, festive evenings, or intimate celebrations.
   
   
7. What is your creative process when conceptualizing a new collection? Do you start with fabric, motifs, or a theme?
   It’s always the theme first—it gives direction. Once that’s clear, the fabrics and motifs naturally fall into place. 
8. As a designer, how important is it for you to keep South Asian traditions alive in your work?
   It’s essential. Our traditions are rich and diverse, and showcasing them keeps our identity alive on a global stage. 
9. How has your design philosophy evolved since you first launched your brand?
   I like to believe we have become better over time, we ‘ve become more experimental but also more conscious about authenticity. The goal is to innovate while respecting our roots. 
10. What are some challenges you face in maintaining the balance between staying true to your roots and innovating for a global audience?
    It’s tricky, but the key is staying authentic while reinterpreting traditions in ways that resonate with today’s world. 
11. With the growing emphasis on sustainable fashion, what steps is your brand taking in that direction?
    We’re trying to use more natural fabrics, reducing waste during production and marketing, and supporting artisans with sustainable practices. Its a process. We are trying to get better. 

Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re particularly excited about?
Yes, we’re working on a few  projects with South Asian artisans and some others with international creatives—can’t wait to share more soon!

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