Shweana Poy Raiturcar’s no-Fabric kasab lehenga redefines Indian couture

When jewellery designer Shweana Poy Raiturcar married Vikram Salgaocar, her bridal look felt less like an outfit and more like a once-in-a-lifetime expression of craft, legacy and identity. Created by Monica Shah for JADE by MK, the lehenga was extraordinary in its very foundation—it wasn’t made of fabric, but entirely from metallic threads. Over 15,000 hours of meticulous handwork by the artisans of Chanakya International brought it to life, turning something intangible into something deeply emotional and tangible.

Reviving the historic Mughal-era Kasab technique, Monica approached the lehenga almost like architecture. Rose gold, gold and antique gold threads were layered and interwoven so precisely that they created their own structure, eliminating the need for cloth altogether. As Shweana moved, the lehenga caught the light in the most mesmerising way—fluid yet strong, delicate yet powerful. It had the presence of heirloom jewellery, but with the grace and movement of couture.

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The closer you looked, the more intimate the details became. Each panel carried layers of interlaced craftsmanship, accented with sculptural appliqué, hand-cut peacock motifs and subtle crystal highlights. There were quiet touches of teal, intricate macramé work and dimensional textures that revealed themselves slowly rather than all at once. The dupatta, crafted in a rose-gold jaali, floated weightlessly, adding softness and balance to the sculptural silhouette.

What made the ensemble even more meaningful was the personal connection behind it. Shweana and her mother, Binita Poy Raiturcar, share a natural appreciation for heritage and craftsmanship, and that shared sensibility shaped the process in a way that felt intuitive and special. For Monica, the creation was about honouring tradition while allowing it to evolve—letting craft lead the story rather than simply decorate it.

Completing the look was jewellery designed by Shweana herself, with each diamond thoughtfully chosen from Rosy Blue and crafted by KDZ. It was a fitting extension of her identity—not just as a bride, but as a creator.

This was more than a bridal ensemble. It was a celebration of Indian craftsmanship at its highest level—where history, artistry and personal meaning came together to create something truly unforgettable.

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