Rashmi Mohapatra

Raas dedicates itself to the well-being of local weavers and to develop the weaving community of Odisha. Spring-Summer 2014 saw the humble beginnings of the label by entrepreneur Rashmi Mohapatra, along with acclaimed designer Pritam Panda, to take the legacy of Indian fashion design ahead by unearthing centuries old skills and the craftsmanship of weavers in the eastern Indian state of Odisha and placing it firmly on the global stage (prêt a porter and couture). Starting with just one weaver, the label today employs almost 50 weavers and 20 craftsmen and artisans. It is today the most sought label in Odisha, and has already showcased at Who's Next, Paris (Paris Market Week 2017). The line comprises largely affordable bespoke designs that promise the ultimate standards in quality and construction. The beauty of its designs lie in the play of colors, meticulously crafted embroidery, bead-work and designs presented over supreme quality of Ikat weaves and fabric. Great attention to detailing and an emphasis on comfortable high fashion ensures that these designs always stand out in a crowd. It’s by virtue of the uniqueness that since inception, Raas has rightfully grown into a brand to be reckoned with, and with a loyal ever-increasing client base. Raas is a brand with a singular ambition of delivering premium art in the form of fashion that highlights the indigenous weaving crafts of Odisha, in ways never seen earlier. At the same time, it vests the extremely talented but little known Odisha Ikat weaving community the global attention and resultant economic opportunities that they so truly deserve.