When she was a child, Namita won a drawing competition organised by the Rotary Club. Her mother was so proud of her achievement, that she sewed a beautiful frock for her as a gift. Wearing it made her feel so special and it was then that she developed a fascination for design.
New Vistas
Her new Jai Ho Collection is a heartfelt tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit, timed perfectly with Republic Day to honour the nation’s legacy while embracing a modern, conscious approach to fashion. “This collection is designed to honour our nation’s legacy while embracing a modern, conscious approach to fashion. Each piece in the collection reflects the essence of India through bold creativity, intricate artistry, and the iconic colours of the tricolour, saffron, white, and green. The collection features three unique sarees, each with its own story.”
The Jai Ho Suzanni Floral Tricolour saree is inspired by Turkish Suzanni floral motifs, this saree reimagines traditional patterns with the symbolic colours of our national flag, representing courage, peace, and growth. The Jai Ho Tricolour Saree is a versatile and contemporary drape that celebrates India’s unity, perfect for weddings, cultural events, or casual gatherings. The Jai Ho Marigold Tricolor Saree is a vibrant, youthful saree with a striking marigold palla paired with the tricolour, designed for the fearless, stylish Gen Z.
“Representing India as the sole NCC cadet from Maharashtra at the Youth Exchange Program in Russia and winning the Prime Minister’s Banner for the state instilled in me a profound sense of pride and responsibility toward my country. These moments of honor were not just personal achievements but a reminder of the limitless spirit of India. It was this deep connection with my motherland that inspired me to launch the Jai Ho Collection—a heartfelt tribute to India’s rich heritage and culture. Through this collection, I aim to give back to the country that shaped me, celebrating its timeless beauty and inspiring others to cherish the essence of our incredible nation,” she shares.
Looking back
Growing up, she was always driven and ambitious and was also one of the 10 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets to represent India at the prestigious Youth Exchange Program in Russia in 2002, the sole participant from Maharashtra. “I also made it to the merit list of Naval NCC Cadets and brought home the Prime Minister’s Banner for Maharashtra, which instilled in me the values of discipline, leadership, and dedication,” she recollects. Later, as a flight attendant, she had the privilege of traveling the world, experiencing diverse cultures, and observing intricate designs and patterns from different regions. “These experiences broadened my perspective and inspired me to explore how traditional art could seamlessly blend with modern aesthetics.”
Telling stories
Her design ethos is shaped by a deep love for Indian art, culture, and design, coupled with a desire to create timeless fashion pieces. Her formative years taught her the importance of representing her roots and combined with her global exposure, inspired her to establish Ambar Taara, a platform where India’s cultural richness meets contemporary style in 2022. “For me, designing is not just about creating clothes, it is about telling stories, evoking emotions, and celebrating the beauty of heritage and innovation. This passion ultimately led to the creation of Ambar Taara, where every design reflects my journey, inspirations, and love for timeless artistry.” The store retails exquisite designer sarees that are timeless, elegant, and environmentally conscious. “Our collections, such as the recently launched Jai Ho Collection, showcase India’s vibrant artistry while reflecting a global appeal. Each piece is designed with a focus on intricate detailing, bold creativity, and a story that connects deeply with our customers.” They also extend their sustainability efforts by transforming leftover fabrics into stylish accessories like juttis and potlis, ensuring minimal waste and a thoughtful design process.
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Sari soiree
For someone who specialises in sari, she admits that the garment’s versatility and storytelling ability and its ability to transcend generations, regions, and occasions, remains deeply personal to the wearer. “Every sari tells a story—of skill, traditions, and emotions. From intricate weaves to bold prints, a sari carries the essence of its origin and the skill of the artisans who create it. It is a canvas that allows for endless creativity while staying rooted in cultural significance. What also fascinates me is the sari’s adaptability. It can be styled in countless ways, blending effortlessly with both traditional and modern aesthetics. Whether it’s a bride’s cherished drape on her wedding day or a chic, minimalistic look for a modern event, the sari evolves with time and context.” And this is why she is inspired to push creative boundaries while honouring the deep cultural roots it represents.
Fruitful journey
Her journey has been nothing short of transformative, a blend of challenges, inspiration, and immense growth. “Starting Ambar Taara was a dream come true, but it came with its share of hurdles. Building a brand that balances tradition and modernity while maintaining sustainability is no easy feat. However, every challenge has been an opportunity to learn and innovate. Seeing my designs resonate with people and having them embrace our vision has been the most rewarding part of this journey.” She credits the support of her family, inspiration from her travels, and the passion to celebrate India’s heritage as her guiding forces in this journey. “Today, as Ambar Taara grows and reaches a wider audience, I feel grateful for every step of this journey and excited about what lies ahead. It's been a story of perseverance, creativity, and an unwavering belief in my vision.”
Future perfect
Looking ahead, her vision for Ambar Taara is to continue growing as a globally recognised brand that blends India’s rich heritage with modern design sensibilities. “I aim to reach more international markets and make Ambar Taara a name synonymous with timeless elegance and conscious fashion. I plan to introduce more diverse collections that cater to different cultural tastes while maintaining a deep connection with Indian craftsmanship. Each collection will focus on sustainability and inclusivity, while continuing to offer designs that resonate with a global audience.” She is passionate about supporting women artisans and creators, and in the future plans to provide more opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds to showcase their craft, while giving them a platform to thrive. “Ultimately, I see Ambar Taara as a force for change in the fashion world—one that celebrates culture, promotes sustainability, and empowers women worldwide. The journey has only just begun, and I’m excited to continue evolving and pushing boundaries,” she signs off.
