Pria Kataaria Puri gives back

Diwali, the festival of lights may be celebrated with much pomp and fanfare in India, but the festival can also bring people together for a good cause. Princess Francoise Sturdza of Geneva is hosting a charity event — Diwali Fashion Celebration, The Art of Giving — tonight and tomorrow, which will feature a fashion show by Pria Kataaria Puri, followed by a dinner party at The Rasoi, a Michelin star Indian restaurant in the city.

Proceeds from the event, which includes funds raised from the sale of the seats and a silent auction of the designs, will go towards the Heart For India foundation — a Chennai-based organisation run by the Princess that educates and supports less-fortunate children in South India. “I’ve been an ambassador for this charity since the past three years and have seen it grow from a small organisation with 40 children to more than 2,000 today. Diwali is all about giving and we wanted to do something to share the joy of the festival,” says Pria.

The two-day event will see Swiss glitterati in attendance, including European royalty, the Hinduja family and a couple of Hollywood names. Pria will be displaying an Indo-Western fusion collection comprising gowns, tunics and kaftans inspired by the rich Persian culture. “Last time, my kaftan collection was very well-received. I’ve kept the designs very luxurious and elegant. I’ve also designed a range of silk scarves which will be sold on the charity’s website. Such events are a great way to display Indian fashion on an international platform,” adds the designer who hopes to raise a considerable amount from the show.

Aside from her charity initiative, Pria has her hands full with a number of other projects. “I’m working on a new line for the resort fashion week in Goa later this month, which is inspired by the works of Picasso. I’m also busy with my first film project, Zanjeer 2 and have just finished working with Mahie Gill and will soon start styling Priyanka Chopra,” she adds.