Bengaluru, NFAPost: P N RAO, the iconic men’s fashion brand based in Bengaluru, recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey. Founded in 1923 by Shri Pishe Narayan Rao, the brand has earned a reputation for providing fine suits and staying true to its founding philosophy and values. To commemorate this milestone, P N RAO organized centennial year celebrations on May 25th, 2023, coinciding with the 120th birth anniversary of its founder.
As part of the celebrations, P N RAO hosted global industry leaders in fabrics who shared their perspectives on the evolving world of fashion and its impact on luxury fabrics, both globally and in India. The event featured notable figures such as Mr Neil Hart, Global Sales Director of Scabal; Mr Bob McAuley, President of HMS International (parent company of Huddersfield Fine Worsteds); Mr Chandramouli, Director of Huddersfield Fine Worsteds India; Mr Simone, Global Sales Manager of Reda; Vitale Barberis Canonico; and Ms Vandana, Managing Director of Dormeuil India. These experts discussed the changing landscape of luxury fabrics, highlighting the increasing demand for finer, more luxurious materials in India and worldwide.
Mr Neil Hart of Scabal emphasized that Indian consumers are becoming more discerning and curious about the entire fabric manufacturing process, from raw materials to finished products. The demand for higher-quality materials is on the rise. Mr. Bob McAuley of HMS International recognized India as an aspirational market for fabric manufacturers, with unique needs and requirements. As the luxury segment grows rapidly, brands like theirs are ready to customize their products to cater to the Indian market.
Mr Richard Boide, Managing Director of Dormeuil, spoke about the growing importance of sustainability in the fashion industry. As consumers become more conscious of the environment, brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical manufacturing processes are expected to benefit. Mr Boide believes that consumers will increasingly align themselves with brands that demonstrate strong sustainability commitments.
The global executives praised P N RAO as the equivalent of India’s Savile Row, known for its finest suits and innovative approach to bespoke tailoring. They acknowledged P N RAO’s role in guiding consumers through shifts in the industry and leveraging these changes to improve their offerings.
Ketan Pishe, Partner at P N RAO, expressed his gratitude to the brand’s global partners and friends, highlighting the significance of 2023 as the centennial year and the birth anniversary of Shri Pishe Narayan Rao. With a renewed spirit and strengthened partnerships with global fabric manufacturers, P N RAO aims to consolidate its leadership position in the segment for the next 100 years. Naveen Pishe, another Partner at P N RAO, emphasized the brand’s commitment to the environment by mentioning their solar-powered bespoke tailoring unit, which demonstrates their dedication to clean and sustainable manufacturing practices.
During the centennial celebrations, P N RAO was honoured by the World Federation of Master Tailors for its outstanding contribution to bespoke tailoring. Dr Prakash Parmar, Director of the World Federation of Master Tailors, presented a memento to P N RAO in recognition of their efforts in promoting and advancing the art of bespoke tailoring. The memento was received by Ketan Pishe and Naveen Pishe on behalf of P N RAO.
As part of the celebrations, P N RAO also showcased its upcoming Women’s Wear line-up and unveiled its specially crafted Centennial Collection of apparel at a glamorous fashion show in the evening. The event also honoured 100 eminent personalities from Bengaluru who have made significant contributions to the city’s growth and brought fame to the region, mirroring P N RAO’s own story of success.
