September 10, 2012: Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Indian couturiers par excellence, launched their book, India Fantastique, at Sotheby’s London recently. The book was premiered through an exclusive, by invitation only event. Dame Judi Dench and Mr. Amitabh Bachchan were the Guests of Honours and released the book.
Dame Judi Dench, said, “I first noticed Sophie Marceau wearing an Abu Sandeep creation on the sets of the Bond movie ‘The World is Not Enough’. When I asked Lindy Hemming (Oscar winning costume designer) she put me in touch with the Boys and the association has continued to date I am happy to say.”
"They walked into my house one morning, years ago, a shy smile on their faces and a world of expectation in their yes. Jaya introduced them to me as Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, young men stepping into the world of couture, in the city of opportunity, Mumbai. They were very talented, my wife Jaya had gushed, an opinion she often takes ample time over before passing. I recognized immediately that they were destined to be our favourites, and I was not wrong." said Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan.
Prior to this, an exhibition of the designers’ work was held at Sotheby’s, 34-35 New Bond Street, London W1, from September 3-5, to coincide with the launch of India Fantastique. Designed to literally bring the volumes to life, the exhibition was a 3-D showcase of their 25-year career, featuring masterworks of couture, craft, textiles and art, juxtaposed with sumptuous photographic highlights from the books.
The first volume of India Fantastique displays dozens of the duo’s elegant designs created over the past 25 years, including close-ups of exquisitely crafted details. The second volume focuses on their extensive work in interior design. Their hallmark maximalism runs riot in privately commissioned interiors, which incorporate art, artifacts, antiques and vintage textiles.
