New Delhi, July 31, 2025: Celebrated Kathak exponent Shivani Varma brought the mysticism of Sufi poetry to life at the grand finale of Hyundai India Couture Week 2025, presented by the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI). Performing just before the final bridal segment of JJ Valaya’s much-awaited showcase East, Shivani’s evocative recital created a contemplative interlude of classical elegance. The performance was set to a contemporary rendition of Bulleh Shah’s verse “Raanjha Raanjha kar di ni main aape Raanjha hoi,” echoing the deeper philosophy of identity and spiritual transformation central to Sufism, which was also the theme for this segment of the show.
Choreographed by Shivani herself, the piece featured a group of four dancers performing in synchrony to vocals by Aviras with musical arrangement by Gaurav. Directed by Aparna Bahl Bedi, the show blended classical Kathak vocabulary of pirouettes, poses, and stance with the elegant aesthetic of couture. The dancers wore ivory anarkalis and churidars with pearl detailing on the back, designed by JJ Valaya. The flow and structure of the garments enhanced the storytelling, allowing the lower flare to convey drama and impact, the upper torso to express structure and delicacy of movement, together symbolising the spiritual discipline and subtle intensity of Sufism.
Speaking about her performance, Shivani Varma said, “It is an honour to work with a stalwart like Mr. JJ Valaya. He has been exceptional to work with and is involved personally in every aspect of the creative process. I hope we brought his vision to life in a way that is true to his style. The Sufi theme resonated deeply with me as both dancer and choreographer. I saw this as an opportunity to explore surrender, divinity, and the dissolution of the self through movement. The poetry of Bulleh Shah gave us an emotional foundation, while the couture, music, and choreography came together to express both restraint and intensity. The entire segment was designed to be not just a performance, but an experience, a quiet, powerful celebration of identity, devotion, and flow.”
Expressing his delight at the success of Couture Week, Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, said, “The grand finale of Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 was a stunning celebration of tradition and elegance. JJ Valaya’s show East marked 33 years of his creative journey with a segment inspired by Sufism, where music, movement and design came together with grace and depth. A highlight was Shivani Varma’s Kathak performance. A long-time collaborator who continues to be part of our creative journey, Shivani led and choreographed a group of four dancers in a soulful interpretation of Bulleh Shah’s poetry. Dressed in flowing ivory anarkalis with pearl detailing, the performance reflected the simplicity and beauty of Sufi thought. The choice of white and the fluidity of the garments enhanced the choreography, creating a moment of timeless expression on a truly grand stage.”
The grand finale of Hyundai India Couture Week 2025 also marked 33 years of JJ Valaya’s remarkable journey in Indian couture. Known for blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, Valaya’s closing show was a spectacular ode to Indian heritage and modern luxury, and an immersive celebration of fabric, form, movement, and meaning.