Classics with a modern twist!

A contemporary fashion line that incorporates traditional wear with a classical touch, Manas showcases the Bengal heritage and traditions in bold and light colours for those who appreciate timeless classics.

The word "Manas" is rooted in Sanskrit, meaning "mind power," which, combined with their philosophy "scent of earth," promotes Faiza Ahmed's work ethic to produce clothes that are hand-made without any involvement of machine manufacturing.

For this Eid, Manas is focusing on the works of one of a kind fashion interpretation of literary figures such as Michael Madhusudan Dutt and Lalon. The illustrations are done on the anchal of the saris, and literature and lyrics, respectively, on the body of the saris. Faiza Ahmed is the first of her kind in the industry to be paying tribute to such legends by incorporating such illustration design work on traditional saris.

Her collection will also include children's and men's wear as well as matching or similarly designed outfits for the whole family. Her choice of designs is a direct translation of her view of the world right now. "The amount of negativity and violence around us is astounding and escalating. There is a need for the realisation and reformation in the way we view murder, abuse, rape and other forms of violence. The collection is just my attempt to get people talking about these things," says Faiza. This comes as no surprise as amongst her many designs she chose to use the lyrics of Lalon's songs such as, "jaat gelo jaat gelo boley" and "manush bojhle shonar manush hobi."

She also has a lingering fear that the work of many well-known literary Bengali figures is being forgotten or cast aside, especially amongst the coming generations. Hence, she chose to design not just saris, but even t-shirts with the writings and portrait of Michael Madhusudan Dutt, one of the first great poets and playwrights of modern Bengali literature.

This summer, be the artsy one who breathes in a bit of fresh air amongst the shiny and temporary fads. If you want a completely unique look for this Eid that sets you apart with aplomb; fusing Bengali literature or music with fashion, make a classic

but traditional,

simple but bold and elegant statement with Manas!

Model: Farhin Shams

Photographer: Tutul Nesar

Art Direction and Make Up: Faiza Ahmed