Neha Poddar had her artistic instincts ingrained right from the days of babyhood. So after growing up, she joined NIFT to pursue a career in Fashion. During her graduating project at Shahi Exports, she designed her first ever Home-linen collection which was hugely applauded. This turned out to be a Eureka moment as Neha launched the label Nehaz, a home-linen label which is a bit rare in our market. Post the success of Nehaz, she introduced her clothing line Naksh with a promising debut at Bangalore Fashion Week, 2010.

  • She graduated as a textile designer from NIFT in 2007.

  • She comes from the city of Kolkata.

  • She is associated with Hope Foundation, an Ngo dedicated to children.

Recounting about her debut collection at BFW, she says, “The theme behind the collection was ‘the warrior princess‘. It had couture spirit with elements of innovative detailing — reflected in the spirit of youth that the superb texturing and silhouettes radiate. The results were dazzling examples of attitudes that represent the contemporary women — modern, chic and sexy.”

Neha finds her muse in nature and traditional art forms. Further, she is stirred by designer Ritu Kumar who according to her has the best of Indian textiles, absolutely powerful resources and produces true Indian pieces. Infact, she would love to design for Ritu Kumar, if given an opportunity. In addition to it, she feels inspired by fashion designer Rimzim Dadu too.

But an inspiration can do no wonder sans an original idea. And it’s not always you have an idea. What does she do then? “Travelling is the key for me. There are times when design blocks are there; whenever these blocks come I plan a trip. As I said earlier that nature and various art forms inspires me a lot. While I am travelling I get to see nature and various art forms available and the design blockage is gone for me. I love to travel and have been to many parts of India and world which are known for its natural beauty or traditional art forms.” says the designer.

Everybody isn’t ambitious all the time. Some tend to feel satisfied at some point. The same was happening with Neha. She says, “I was always happy doing my home-linen. But it was my mother who always wanted to see me on ramp making designer walk at the end of show and she sitting in front row clapping for me. It’s only for her dream and support that I have come this far.”

In the future, she desires to design a fashion that’s both classic and affordable to the point where masses can avail it. To please her environment concerned side, Neha plans to switch to organic fabrics in future. Well, that’s really applauding.

You can get Neha Podder  at:

Neha Poddar

100A, Kankulia Road, Near Anjali jewellers,

Golpark, Kolkata – 700029