Shilpi Madan
06-Apr-2026
Stylish silhouettes and contemporary comfort with a touch of glam set the mood for fashion designer Maheka Mirpuri’s latest collection: Maharani Athleisure. A first-in.
Fashion designer Maheka Mirpuri strikes another first. In signature glam, and modern sporty lines in the latest collection, Maharani Athleisure, from her eponymous label Maheka Mirpuri.
Her fashion house, established in 1996, has drawn an amazing following from Bollywood and beyond. As a philanthropist, her charitable foundation MCAN raises funds annually for cancer patients at Tata Memorial Hospital.
Excerpts from a conversation:
The Modern Maharani collection came two years ago: How have you taken the lines forward to launch Maharani Athleisure?
Modern Maharani allowed me to explore a woman’s regal identity through couture. But as I lived with the collection, I began asking a new question: What does the Maharani look like in her everyday rhythm? Not dressed for an occasion, but for life.
Maharani Athleisure is that evolution. It moves the narrative from ceremony to movement, from grandeur to ease, from stillness to fluidity. It’s the same woman, just in a new chapter - active, expressive, and completely unconfined.
Athleisure isn’t typically associated with designer wear. What inspired this collection?
Athleisure today reflects how women truly live - travel, work, wellness -everything overlaps. I wanted to bring my couture sensibility into that space without losing the comfort it represents. The idea was to create pieces that feel effortless but look refined - athleisure with a pulse, a point of view, and an unmistakable identity.
Share with us the making of the palette, and the convoy of fabrics, and silhouettes.
Maharani Athleisure is built on movement and mood. The colour palette is airy, modern, and summer-led: soft whites, sorbet tones, gentle metallic highlights, and deeper shades that add structure.
The fabrics include lightweight linen, Swiss cotton, French organza, and my signature taffeta materials that breathe, yet hold presence. Silhouettes are relaxed yet intentional: zipper jackets, elevated co-ords, track sets, fluid separates, and hand-painted outerwear. Every piece balances comfort with couture detail.
How do you celebrate sustainability in your creations?
For me, sustainability begins with longevity. I design pieces that are meant to be worn, re-worn, and styled across seasons.
We use durable, high-quality fabrics, minimise waste through thoughtful cutting techniques, and ensure all embellishment is done by hand - supporting our in-house artisans and craft clusters. Slow, mindful production has always been my foundation -long before sustainability became a trend.
How does your passion for jewellery design influence your work?
Jewellery teaches precision - it trains your eye to notice the smallest nuance: a curve, a texture, a glimmer. That sensibility naturally flows into my garments.
While I don’t use precious stones on clothing, I translate that feeling through Swarovski accents, metallic textures, and artisanal thread work. The intention remains the same: to create pieces that feel personal, not just worn.
You started your fashion house over three decades ago. How has your design language evolved?
Over the years, my design language has become more intuitive and more personal. Earlier, I designed for the occasion. Today, I design for the woman -her life, her identity, her pace. The foundation remains the same: glamour, structure, and craftsmanship. But the interpretation is now lighter, freer, and deeply connected to how women live today.
A turning point that has shaped your journey.
Every milestone has taught me something, but the real turning point was understanding that authenticity is my greatest strength.
The more I leaned into my own storytelling - whether through couture, hand-painted surfaces, or now athleisure - the clearer my path became. Staying rooted in craft while embracing change has kept me centred.
A peep into how you telescope trends.
Relevance comes from listening - to women, to culture, to the world around me. I evolve with changing lifestyles while staying true to my core.
Trends don’t guide my design; real life does. When you create from a place of honesty and craft, your work naturally transcends time.
Someone you'd love to design for...
I’ve always believed that every woman who wears my clothing is my muse. But I am especially drawn to women with presence - those who carry quiet strength, confidence, and individuality. They embody the spirit of the Modern Maharani.
Describe your personal style.
My personal style is effortless with a touch of statement - clean lines, comfortable silhouettes, and one defining element that elevates the look.
Even in simplicity, I gravitate towards pieces with a signature - whether it’s a hand-painted jacket or my MM Power Straps. Style, for me, should feel natural, never forced.
Dr. Sonia Tekchandani
