Real luxury lies not in the label, but in the process, the people, and the purpose behind it. In this episode, Rahul and Divya Mishra share how they’ve built not just a couture house, but a philosophy that redefines what fashion means for India and the world.Rahul Mishra’s journey began in a small village , while Divya Bhat Mishra grew up in a middle-class Lucknow household. Together, they transformed those modest beginnings into a global luxury brand—one that employs thousands of artisans, champions India’s crafts, and redefines couture as a community effort. From winning the International Woolmark Prize to becoming the first Indian brand on the official global fashion scene, their story is about resilience, partnership, and a radical vision for fashion rooted in empathy and sustainability.Conversation Highlights🧵 Luxury is process, not marketing: why craftsmanship will always outshine flash💍 The power of equal partnership—how marriage and business thrive without hierarchy👶 Balancing Paris runway shows with the birth of their daughter🌍 Why India must become the “author of luxury,” not just its factory🏡 Their mission of reverse migration—bringing artisans back to villages and reviving local economies🚫 Landmark legal victory: making plagiarism of designs a punishable offense in India🔮 AI and couture—why handcraft will only grow more valuable in the digital future💡 Lessons from rejection: how losing the Woolmark Prize in 2012 prepared them for global successIf you’ve ever wondered how to stay rooted while chasing global dreams, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a creator, an entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for meaning in your work, Rahul and Divya’s journey will inspire you to believe that true luxury is built on values, not shortcuts.Key TakeawaysLuxury is human: Craftsmanship is the heart of couture.Partnership is strength: Equality, trust, and respect power their journey.Failure is fuel: Rejections are launchpads for reinvention.Communities matter: Fashion can uplift villages and revive economies.Authenticity wins: Global brands are built on real stories, not marketing alone.00:00 – Introduction01:22 – Roles Rahul & Divya play03:15 – Building the brand together04:36 – From brand to organization06:19 – Philosophy behind the label07:17 – Mixing marriage and work09:14 – Creative differences at work11:10 – Trust and freedom in partnership13:04 – Work-life balance perspective14:26 – Working through pregnancy16:39 – Formative years & upbringing21:49 – Scaling dreams beyond origins23:36 – Purpose, process & couture26:53 – Vision for the studio28:21 – Reverse migration & craftsmen32:10 – AI’s role in fashion35:02 – Facing rejections & resilience40:48 – Going global with fashion44:37 – India as author of luxury47:27 – Lessons from global brands49:14 – Protecting designs & plagiarismWatch at 1.5x speed for a faster, more efficient listen.🎙️ About the show:Hosted by Masoom Minawala, The Masoom Minawala Show brings honest, vulnerable conversations with changemakers, creators, and entrepreneurs. Every episode is designed to spark personal growth and meaningful change.About Masoom: Masoom Minawala is a global influencer, entrepreneur, and content creator passionate about empowering women and promoting Indian talent worldwide.With over a decade of experience, Masoom has been featured in Vogue, CNN’s 20 under 40, and HSBC’s list of leading female entrepreneurs worldwide. She’s worked with over 500+ global brands, represented India at the Cannes Film Festival red carpet, and delivered impactful talks.Want to buy my book? It’s a no-filter guide to turning setbacks into success—and building a business that actually works. Get it here: https://www.amazon.in/Shell-Never-Make-Journey-Dominance/dp/9353458528📲 Social Media:My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masoomminawala/My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masoomminawala/