Back to Lucknow

“I studied in City Montessori School till class VIII and had to leave studies as there was no money for fees,” says Umair Zafar,son of a humble zardozi artisan of Lucknow,who went to Mumbai and wrote the story of his success becoming a designer for film stars and celebrities.

“Through a fashion show I want to raise funds for the education of children of chikan and zardozi artisans,” says Zafar,announcing his plan for a show called ‘Artsania’ on December 18 at Scorpio Club.

“I will be showcasing a selection of dresses created by me in the Rajputana and Mughal styles. I use chikan and zardozi as embellishment as and where required,” says the designer. Supporting his cause is actor Shahbaz Khan,who says he never models “except for my wife!” at home,but was taking part in the event as the designer is his friend.

“I have a couple of films in hand,including Saif Ali Khan’s production Agent Vinod and there is a TV series ,Hum Intezar Karenge much of which would be shot in Lucknow,” says the actor who has visited the city a number of times since 1995.

“Now,it has become Lucknow.com,” is the change he noticed the city has undergone.