SEMI-FINALIST OF THE 2023 LVMH PRIZE

kartik researchby Kartik Kumra

Kartik Kumra launched Kartik Research (initially named Karu Research) in 2020 during his sophomore year at the University of Pennsylvania. Through intimate collaborations with master craftspeople, Kumra has made inroads into recontextualizing Indian traditions for a global audience while handling Indian references responsibly and with authenticity. Each garment has some handmade element to it. The shirting and quilts are produced on handlooms and dyed with plants and herbs and the embroideries are done by hand. As a result, each piece is unique, embracing its imperfect character. Each season, Karu Research engages in deep research about specific Indian subcultures and characters, from psychedelic beat music to the Maharaja of Indore, honouring the country’s history.