Manish's signature to sensuality

There’s no room for complacency in any field today and Manish Malhotra’s latest move added up just to that effect.
The famed ‘make-over man’ who breathed new life into the careers of Karishma Kapoor, Kajol and numerous other filmstars just by changing their looks, has made a move from being a part of the Lakme Fashion Week to giving the headlining act for their rival, Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WIFW). And he doesn’t camouflage his vested interest in doing so. “I already have a dedicated base in Mumbai and I wish to expand my label in Delhi, so this is a great platform for me.”
“I am not at all unhappy with my performance at the Lakme Fashion Week in Mumbai. I got selected for the South African Fashion Week and now this offer has come to me. I feel very fulfilled.”
Despite being in the industry for ages, he admits that he still feels pangs of anxiety. “I am stressed out before any show,” he said at the press conference to announce his tie-up with the Wills Lifestyle for the grand finale. “I have an upset stomach right now,” he laughs.
Talking about his collection, Manish says, “It is a diffusion line called sensuality. It’s about the amalgamation of all the senses. You will see a lot of colours like cherry red and oranges blended with dull gold.”
Though he was not a part of the previous WIFW, he made his presence felt at the event by his day-to-day commentary on a national news channel. This time around he hopes to make the news than break it. “I have been approached by a number of channels but I have not decided anything yet.”
Ask him which celebrity he would love to design for and he says, “Sridevi in India and internationally, Madonna.”

Published in hindustan Times Next on August 10, 2006