Is This Fashion?

The event raises questions on sensitivity issues. Designer Riyaz,who own the Libas group of apparel stores,is defensive. “The fashion show was a tribute to Hangal and a way of presenting him in a dignified manner before his fans. We wanted to show that he is better now and can move around a bit. In fact,he has appeared on a TV show as a guest,” he says.

Organised by the Tour De India cyclothon movement,the fashion show was intended to raise funds for the ailing actor. Riyaz adds that he made an advance payment of Rs 50,000 to Vijay for Hangal’s appearance at the show. The models contributed an additional Rs 25,000. “We will generate more funds through an auction of six dresses on Ebay,” he says.

What has,perhaps,been overlooked is the issue of dignity and privacy in ill health. “He likes meeting people,but agreed reluctantly for the show. It was a tiring experience for him,” admits Vijay. “My father was a tailor before he took up acting. He felt obliged to attend this fashion show as a mark of support to the designers.” While attending school in the 1930s,Hangal had worked at a tailoring shop in Peshawar,Pakistan,and opened his own shop in Mumbai,called Hangal’s Gents Tailor,in the 1950s.

Riyaz defends Hangal’s ramp appearance,saying he “doesn’t want the actor to be away from the media limelight,” and claims to have signed him for Rs 40,000 for an advertising campaign of his new store in Juhu. Vijay,adds the designer,will be the photographer on the project. However,Vijay claims ignorance about this deal. “Nothing has been finalised”. Besides,was it really necessary to parade a 94-year old ailing man on the ramp?