Niki Mahajan, a designer with panache has devoted the last 15 years in promoting the talent reserves of the Indian subcontinent working with the immensely talented artisans from Bihar, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and other remote corners.

The endeavour is to retain an umbilical connection with the huge talent resource of the country's mysterious interiors. Working with tribals, Niki has created a fabric called "Reeds" which is made by splitting grass and treating it with natural elements.

A recipient of the Yuv Ratan award for excellence in promoting the production of unique fabrics by the Ministry of Textiles, she has had the opportunity to learn about the crafts at the grass root level.

Currently she retails from Bangalore, Madras, Cochin at Ffolio, Oorja at Hyderabad, Kali at Kolkata, Casa at Pune, L'affaire, Heritage and her own studio at Vasant Vihar, Priya Cinema Complex, New Delhi and the Designer Studio, Mumbai.

She specialises in trousseau, occasion wear and Prêt lines, with an emphasis on clean-cut silhouettes and intricate hand work. Her pret line-"maska" combines innovative surface treatments with surprising color ways making it an unusual product.

LIFW collection 2004
The collection takes inspiration form 'Art Nouveau Floral patterns', with texturing, tie n dye techniques and print details. An extensive use of hosiery, lycra and knits.