"My aim is to reinvent these crafts with a new thought and bring them into the limelight. Like I always say, a floor length anarkali can look as glamorous and modern as a cocktail gown. And thankfully, a lot of influencers are now taking pride in wearing who we are," he said.
What also makes him glad is how men in the country have embraced colour in their wardrobes over the years.
"I have always loved colours and it has always reflected in all my collections. I think it's been a while that men have accepted unusual colours, especially in western wear," he said.
"For example - a pink shirt was suddenly a staple in everybody's wardrobe and still continues to be. But I think in Indian wear, a lot of change and demand for colours has been noticed in recent times," added Malhotra, who ventured into mainstream designing in 1998.
He noted that gradually, "everybody is ditching the classic black bandhgala for a deep blue bandhgala".
In fact, his latest collection comprises pink churidars, salmon pink bandi jackets, colour blocking shirts and traditional kurtas in summer colours for men.
"It's a refreshing change," said the suave designer, who looks fit as a fiddle.
For women, his collection's unique highlights are "a lot of sheer, lace, metallic, exquisite floral and unusual pastels".
The use of lace and sheer fabric can be tricky for most body types. Isn't it?
"Well, it depends on how you play around with sheer fabrics," he said.
