On Wednesday, Prayas hosted an inspiring evening titled Looms to Leadership, featuring Minister-in-Charge of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Agnimitra Paul, in conversation with dancer-choreographer Avirup Sengupta. The event celebrated stories of leadership, creativity, and change, bringing together students, dignitaries, and community members. Dignitaries felicitated Paul, followed by a dance recital by Prayas students. Avirup joined in a dance performance as singer Riddhi Bandopadhyay mesmerized the audience with her soulful renditions. In her interaction with Avirup, Agnimitra spoke about her journey from fashion to public service, balancing different roles, and inspiring future generations to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive society.
Beyond the Runway: A Fashion Icon Searching for Purpose
Agnimitra Paul spent nearly two decades building a successful fashion career after launching her label in 1997. She designed for films and celebrities and curated fashion shows, establishing herself as a recognized name. "Yet, amid the glamour and acclaim, I found myself asking a deeper question: What more could I do for our society?" she said, adding, "And here I am today."
Fashion with a Cause: Giving Voice to the Marginalized
Long before entering public life, Paul used fashion as a platform for social change. Her shows highlighted stories of acid attack survivors, trafficked girls, and visually impaired children. "I also worked with the tiger widows of the Sundarbans, helping create workshops where women who had lost their husbands to tiger attacks could earn livelihoods by making garments. These experiences exposed me to resilience, hardship, and human courage, gradually shaping my desire to contribute on a larger scale," said Agnimitra.
Choosing Service Over Comfort: A Journey of Resilience
The decision to leave a successful fashion career for public life was not easy. Coming from a business family, her choice met with concern. The transition brought her face-to-face with difficult realities—stories of violence, grief, and vulnerable families. "Having grown up in a protected environment, I have learned to become stronger with every experience. My family remained my unwavering support, while the love and trust of ordinary people gave me the strength to continue on a journey defined by purpose and service," she shared.
Reimagining Bengal’s Future
"I believe Bengal has immense potential. For many years, we have lagged behind in industrial growth, and now we need to change that narrative. Our government is open to fresh ideas and collaborations that can create jobs, boost development, and reshape the state's image," Paul said. She added, "I have had the same phone number for the past 30 years. I request everyone to send me their ideas on WhatsApp so together we can make our city beautiful, green, and litter-free. We are only a month into this journey, so give us some time as we work towards the betterment of our city."
Women Can Balance Many Roles, But Perfection Is a Myth
Agnimitra said women possess innate strength to multitask and manage different responsibilities. "I think God has given women a different strength. I am not undermining men as some men also can multitask with ease, but women have an inborn ability to balance many things at once," she said. However, she stressed that balance does not mean perfection. "I couldn’t be a perfect mother. My two sons will probably say that. I couldn’t be a perfect wife or a perfect daughter either." She encouraged women to pursue their aspirations without guilt. "We have only one life. If there is something you truly want, you must fulfil it in this lifetime. It may require sacrifices, but at the end of your life, you should not have any regrets," she said.
Politics Needs More Respect, Better Values, and Fresh Ideas
Addressing criticism and negativity, Agnimitra admitted that politics exposed her to a level of hostility she had never encountered. "I have never heard so many bad things in school, college, in my family, or even in my designing career. But politics, especially in Bengal, has seen a decline in values, and we do not want politics to be like this," she said. She maintained that differences in ideology should not lead to personal attacks. "Your ideology may be different from mine, but that does not mean we should speak disrespectfully or attack each other below the belt." She believes the country needs educated, capable, and well-intentioned people to join public service. "Go abroad if you wish, build your career, but come back and work for your country. We need good people, educated people, and fresh ideas," she said. She credited Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari's leadership for promoting a more inclusive political culture, where development rises above political divisions.
Tribute from Rituparna Sengupta
Actress Rituparna Sengupta said, "This is special because to see one of my friends, who has been like family, who began her career as a completely different person and has evolved today. She has made us so proud. Truly, a person’s journey—how a woman has to fight so hard to reach this position. But despite any regrets, I think she has done it all." She added, "From what we have seen of you, Agni, you have been like a great mother, a great professional, and a great person for the people. We are so proud of you, seeing how a woman can reach such great heights through sheer struggle, determination, grit, and love. You are our inspiration!"
Pics: Samik Sen
