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Kalki Koechlin curates Max Fashion’s festive collection blending art and craft
Project New brings original paintings by differently-abled artists and Sanganer block prints to fashion
MUMBAI: Max Fashion has teamed up with actor Kalki Koechlin for its festive 2026 collection, bringing original artwork by differently-abled artists and traditional Sanganer block printing into contemporary fashion.
The collection marks the debut of Project New, Max Fashion’s artist-led initiative that aims to take creativity beyond the design studio and translate it directly into what consumers wear. Koechlin has taken on the role of curator for the first edition.
The collection features original paintings by three artists associated with Chennai-based organisation Kairassi, which supports differently-abled artists. Simron Raj’s watercolour landscapes appear on skirts, Pavithra’s ocean-inspired artwork features on shirts, while Manas’ playful straw-painted artwork has been adapted for a tote bag.
Alongside the contemporary artwork, Max Fashion has collaborated with eight master artisans in Sanganer, Rajasthan, to create an exclusive hand block print for the collection. Inspired by Japanese sakura blossoms, the design was hand-carved into blocks, with colours mixed and the first pieces printed manually layer by layer.
Max Fashion chief executive officer Sumit Chandna said the initiative brings together fashion, storytelling and impact by putting an artist’s work or artisan’s craft directly into festive dressing.
Koechlin said the collection aims to make festive fashion feel more meaningful, with the artwork and craft allowing consumers to carry another person’s story through what they wear.
The range features dresses, kalidar sets, fusion kurtas, shirts and accessories such as scarves, totes and clutches. Prices range from Rs 599 to Rs 1,999.
The collection uses fluid silhouettes, easy separates and contemporary combinations designed for festive occasions as well as everyday wardrobes.
Project New is planned as an ongoing initiative, with Max Fashion set to work with new artists, craftspeople and creative voices across future seasons. The campaign carries the line, “Our New Just Got Newer.”
