GLS University Decoded with Dr Chandni Kapadia Inspires Students
GLS University Brings Fashion Designers Shantnu and Nikhil Mehra to Campus for Student Design Dialogue
Students at GLS University had the chance to hear directly from leading Indian fashion designers Shantnu Mehra and Nikhil Mehra during a special edition of “Decoded with Dr Chandni Kapadia”, an interactive session organised as part of the Faculty of Design orientation programme. The event allowed aspiring designers to discuss creativity, business, branding and the future of Indian fashion with the founders and creative directors of the fashion label Shantnu & Nikhil.
The session was hosted by Dr Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University, and focused on the designers’ professional journey, the challenges of creating an original fashion brand and the changing role of design in a fast-moving global industry.
Founded more than two decades ago, the Shantnu & Nikhil label has become one of India’s recognised luxury fashion brands. The designers are known for combining Indian craftsmanship with modern tailoring, military-inspired details and contemporary silhouettes. Their collections have appeared at major fashion events, and their creations have been worn by film actors, business leaders and public figures. Over the years, the brand has expanded beyond couture into ready-to-wear collections and lifestyle fashion, reflecting wider changes in India’s growing premium fashion market.
During the discussion, the designers explained that their professional backgrounds were very different before they entered the fashion industry. One came from a finance background, while the other pursued creative design. They said these different experiences helped shape the identity of their business and influenced the way they approached both design and entrepreneurship.
Rather than limiting the conversation to fashion trends, the discussion examined broader subjects including originality, criticism, collaboration, business decisions and the importance of developing an individual creative voice. Students also explored how designers can respect traditional Indian techniques while responding to changing consumer preferences and international markets.
India’s fashion industry has grown rapidly over the past two decades. According to industry reports, increasing disposable incomes, digital commerce, and growing interest in premium Indian brands have encouraged many designers to expand beyond traditional bridal wear into contemporary fashion, accessories and lifestyle products. Young designers entering the profession today are expected to combine artistic ability with knowledge of branding, sustainability, digital marketing and business management.
One of the most active parts of the programme came when students presented their own design concepts and creative work. Shantnu and Nikhil reviewed the projects, discussed individual ideas and encouraged students to continue experimenting instead of relying only on established design approaches.
The interaction reflected a wider trend across Indian universities, where design education is becoming more closely connected with industry professionals. Institutions increasingly invite practising architects, designers, entrepreneurs and artists to interact with students, giving them practical knowledge alongside classroom learning.
Several interactive segments formed part of the event, including “Trend or Timeless,” “Style Tips for Gen Z,” “Mood Board Round,” “Drape or Drop”, and the signature “Decoded” discussion. These activities explored branding, fashion entrepreneurship, creative development, social media, consumer behaviour and the balance between preserving tradition and encouraging innovation.
Speaking during the session, Shantnu Mehra said:
“For us, building a brand has never meant creating only one label. It has meant developing distinct identities for different audiences while preserving the same creative DNA. Shantnu & Nikhil Couture represents our most refined and expressive design vision, S&N by Shantnu Nikhil brings that language to a younger and more contemporary audience, while Shantnu Nikhil Cricket Club reflects our passion for sport, culture and modern Indian style. Each brand has its own personality, but they are united by one belief—that Indian design can remain rooted in tradition while being bold, youthful and globally relevant.”
His remarks reflected a strategy increasingly adopted by established fashion businesses, where multiple labels are created to serve different customer groups while maintaining a consistent brand identity.
Addressing students preparing to enter the profession, Nikhil Mehra spoke about persistence and continuous learning.
“To every young designer, we would say: do not be afraid to experiment, make mistakes or question what already exists. Innovation begins when you move beyond the comfort of tradition while continuing to respect its roots. People often see the final collection, the runway and the recognition, but they rarely see the years of discipline, failure and constant learning behind it. Success is never built overnight; it comes from believing in your vision, adapting to change and continuing to create even when the journey feels uncertain. The future belongs to those who are willing to think differently, remain curious and keep learning every day.”
The programme concluded with a symbolic student presentation built around an unfinished garment. Organisers used the display to represent the continuing development of ideas and the learning process that every designer experiences before reaching a finished product.
GLS University has regularly organised academic interactions with professionals from business, media, technology, design and other sectors as part of its efforts to connect classroom education with industry practice. Such engagements are becoming increasingly common in higher education as universities seek to prepare students for careers that demand technical knowledge, creativity, communication skills and adaptability.
For design students, direct interaction with experienced professionals can provide practical guidance that is difficult to gain from textbooks alone. Conversations about creative decision-making, brand building, market realities and professional setbacks help students understand that successful careers are shaped through continuous learning as much as artistic talent.
The event also reflected the growing emphasis on interdisciplinary education, where design is viewed not only as an artistic discipline but also as a field connected with technology, entrepreneurship, culture and business. As India’s creative economy continues to expand, universities are placing greater importance on exposing students to professionals who have built successful careers while adapting to changing markets and consumer expectations.
By bringing industry leaders into the classroom, GLS University offered students an opportunity to engage with experienced designers, present their own work and gain a clearer understanding of the skills required to build careers in the evolving world of fashion and design.
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