The image of a 'boss lady' is often synonymous with sharp power suits and structured blazers. However, designer Parama Ghosh set out to challenge this visual stereotype in a recent fashion shoot, choosing the timeless elegance of a sari instead. For this bold vision, she collaborated with the celebrated veteran actor Ratna Pathak Shah, creating a series of stunning looks in the heart of Kolkata that celebrated Bengal's rich textile heritage.
Reimagining Power Dressing with Bengal Textiles
Parama Ghosh's concept was clear from the start: to move away from the conventional corporate uniform. "A boss woman doesn't always need to wear coats, jackets, or ties—sometimes, being a boss woman is a state of mind," Ghosh explained. To bring this philosophy to life, she chose to dress Ratna Pathak Shah in a beautiful aatpoure jamdani sari. The shoot took place at a grand, historic building in central Kolkata, a setting chosen deliberately to complement the artistry of the garments.
The actor's reaction to the location was one of pure delight. "The moment she saw the building, she had a childlike enthusiasm," recalled Ghosh. The overall mood board for the session was unapologetically bold, featuring vibrant garod and jamdani saris paired with brocade blouses, statement jackets, and chunky traditional jewellery.
Why Ratna Pathak Shah Was the Perfect Muse
For Parama Ghosh, the collaboration was a dream realized. "I've always wanted to work with people I genuinely admire," she stated. Interestingly, this marked Ratna Pathak Shah's first-ever professional shoot for a sari brand, adding significance to the project. While the actor was not initially familiar with Ghosh's label, she was won over after being gifted a jamdani sari and experiencing its feel and drape firsthand.
Ghosh drew inspiration not just from Shah's iconic role as Maya Sarabhai, but from another memorable character. "The character of Savitri from 'Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na' stayed with me and defined the kind of mother I aspired to be. Now that I am a mother to a son, it still resonates deeply with me," the designer shared, highlighting the emotional connection she felt with the actor's versatile portrayals.
A Day of Fashion and Cultural Immersion in Kolkata
The shoot was an intense and creative endeavor, with Ratna Pathak Shah effortlessly modeling four distinct looks in a single day. She embraced experimentation with enthusiasm, trying on everything from stylish berets to bold, statement accessories. The iconic architecture of Kolkata played a starring role, much like the clothes themselves. Shah expressed a deep fondness for the city, saying, "I love this city's architecture... The people and food are already incredible, so if I ever met a genie one of my three wishes would be to restore the buildings of Kolkata to their original glory."
Beyond the camera, the experience was a cultural exchange. Ratna Pathak Shah took home several beautiful Bengal textiles as mementos. The team bonded over discussions on food and travel, with the actor developing a particular liking for East Bengal-style vegetarian bhartas. The shoot successfully blended high fashion with personal connection and a deep appreciation for regional craft, presenting a powerful new definition of the modern 'boss woman' rooted in Indian tradition and confidence.
