An HIV/AIDS affected woman has inspired designer duo Ashish and Vikrant's red-and-white collection at the ongoing Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week (WLIFW) Spring Summer 2015.
Coimbatore based Anandi Yuvraj, who is battling the disease since 17 years, was the show stopper for the young designers who were promoting the cause of equality for HIV/AIDS patients.
Ashish said one of their close friends is also affected by it and through their clothing range they want to create awareness against the disease.
"When our friend got diagnosed with it, we did not know how to react, even we initially considered it as stigma, though later we realised that was a wrong attitude. We thought of making a collection around it because this needs attention," Ashish said after the show.
He added that Yuvraj was the perfect choice for their muse as she is a confident woman and does not let the disease affect her spirits.
"Who else could it be? We met her at an NGO, which works for Aids and sexual health. This woman lives life with utmost normalcy, so that is inspirational," Ashish said.
Yuvraj looked elegant in a red-and-white saree and sashayed down the ramp, which had Amitabh Bachchan's 'Ekla Cholo Re' playing at the backdrop.
She said she is proud to have walked the ramp and wishes more such platforms for people like her.
"There are HIV/AIDS people in fashion world too but not all speak up. I decided to be open about it and not hide it. I am living with it from past 17 years and I am absolutely fine," Yuvraj said about her battle.
