Fashion is often seen as a reflection of personality, and in the world of politics, it can become a powerful tool for communication. India, with its rich history and diverse cultural tapestry, has witnessed the evolution of political fashion over decades. Among the key figures who have shaped this evolution are Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and the current PM Narendra Modi.
Both leaders, despite being from different eras, share a commonality in their fashion choices, yet each has used it to convey distinct messages. Renowned fashion designer cum filmmaker, Tom Ford once famously said: “Dressing well is a form of good manners.” “I think Nehruji is an epitome when it comes to always presenting himself with utmost sophistication.
One fondly remembers him through his crisp sherwanis, smart bandis, and the addition of the classic rose. His fashion is a testament to his ideological beliefs, national identity, and a timeless style that continues to influence fashion globally,” says artist and fashion designer Venkat Gaddam of Whencut Goddamn, Hyderabad. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who served as India’s first Prime Minister from 1947 to 1964, was not just a statesman but also a style icon.
His fashion choices were a blend of traditional Indian attire and Western influences, symbolising the confluence of cultures during India’s transition from colonial rule to independence. Perhaps the most iconic element of Nehru’s fashion statement ‘was’ and still .