(Clockwise from left) Nidhi Tholia, Debyani Malhotra, Suket Dhir, Payal Khandwala, Punit Balana, Kavita Bhartia and Rajdeep Ranawat at the launch.
(L-R) Indrani Dasgupta Paul, Aashti Bhartia and Gauri Bajoria Ahuja cut a happy picture at the launch of Ogaan at 5 Gurusaday Road, on September 2. Indrani and Gauri co-hosted the event. “I would say 11 out of 10 (rating Indrani as a host)... she and Gauri both. I tried to call some family thinking I should also invite them and anyone I spoke with said they were already invited! I think people seem to like it. So, fingers crossed,” smiled Aashti, the managing director of the store. Her mother Kavita Bhartia founded Ogaan in 1989 in Delhi. Indrani said she’s had a “long and old relationship” with them. “Maybe Kavita’s first or second collection (for Kavita Bhartia, her eponymous label that she started in 2001) I modelled for. I still have those images. Aashti being Aashti, I think she wants 12 things changed at the store in the past two hours,” smiled Indrani.
Preeti Goenka
Shivika Goenka and Aashti Bhartia
Kiran Uttam Ghosh dropped by. “The impeccably put-together Ogaan Calcutta raises the bar for fashion in our city. One has to walk in through their doors to experience the magic... I was floored! Aashti and Kavita Bhartia with their years of experience, have created a stunning destination of sharply curated ensembles by a delightful medley of designers from across India for our city. Ogaan is a must-visit,” said Kiran who stocks at the design den.
Model-actor Shayan Munshi dropped by with wife Lana. And, what a handsome pair they made. Shayan in his denim-on-denim look and Lana in her chic brown dress.
To Calcutta, with love...
Nidhi Tholia, Jaipur: Calcutta has its own charm. It has an old-world charm and is culturally very strong.
Debyani Malhotra, Delhi: It’s nostalgic. My mother is Bengali. So this is like my second home. Everytime I come to Calcutta, it’s not just work any more. It’s family. There’s so much to eat and I want to go and have my phuchkas.
Rajdeep Ranawat, Delhi: The authentic mix of culture infused with talent from all over the country and we’ve tried to get all our aesthetics down to vibe with the city... I think it’s going to do fabulous and I just love Calcutta for that.
Payal Khandwala, Mumbai: I am wearing a sari woven here and that makes it extra special.... It’s jamdani and I was excited to wear it here. Calcutta has just something so warm, so old-school. It has a different texture to it than any other city. I find it to be a sweet city and feel happy and safe.... If I have the time, I’d go straight to my weavers... for me that’s the Calcutta I know.
Punit Balana, Jaipur: Calcutta has always been a great market for me. These are especially curated pieces for Ogaan Calcutta. I have honestly not explored Calcutta that much. This time I am hoping to see Calcutta a little bit more!
Suket Dhir, Delhi: I love the pace of this city. I think it is my pace and I also love the fast-paced nightlife the city has. It’s like an absolute contrast.... Every time you raise your eyes during the day, you will see something historical and beautiful. Personally, I have always liked old monuments that have been kept well, other than the ruins.... For me, Victoria Memorial has been kept well.
Pictures: Pabitra Das