Anita Dongre, a renowned Indian fashion designer and entrepreneur, is celebrated for her exceptional contribution to the Indian fashion industry. Her journey from a young girl fascinated by fabrics to a globally recognized brand is truly inspiring.

Wiki/Biography

Born on Thursday, October 3, 1963, in Bandra, West Mumbai, Anita Dongre’s zodiac sign is Libra. Her family originally hailed from Jaipur, relocating to Mumbai shortly before her birth. From a young age, she displayed a keen interest in fashion, drawing inspiration from the women in her family who skillfully crafted beautiful garments from raw materials. She pursued a commerce degree from NM College, Mumbai, followed by a fashion degree from SNDT University, Mumbai. She further honed her skills through an internship with the former royal family of Dhrangadhra, Gujarat.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5’4″
• Hair Colour: Dark Brown
• Eye Colour: Black

Family & Caste

Anita Dongre comes from a Sindhi Hindu family. Her father was a businessman, and her mother’s name was Pushpa Sawlani. She has two sisters, Meena Sehra and Priyanka Hira, and a younger brother, Mukesh Sawlani. She is married to Pravin Dongre, a businessman, and they have a son, Yash Dongre. She maintains a close relationship with her mother-in-law, Shalini Dongre (a retired teacher).

Career

After graduation, Anita Dongre began designing for local boutiques, supplying them with clothes for about 12 years. She then ventured into western wear, creating a collection for young women. However, initial rejection from shops led her to establish her own label, “Anita Dongre Designs,” in 1995, partnering with her sister, Meena Sehra, in a small 300-square-foot space. Her fashion house, “House of Anita Dongre,” now encompasses four distinct brands: AND (western wear), Global Desi (ethnic wear), Anita Dongre (bridal, couture, menswear), and Anita Dongre Grassroot (organic clothes). She has also launched a jewelry brand called “Pink City.”

Awards

Anita Dongre’s accomplishments have been widely recognized through numerous awards:

• GR8 Flo Women Achievers Award for ‘Excellence in Fashion Design’ (2008)
• ‘Excellence in Fashion Design’ Award by The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry Ladies Organization, Bombay Chapter (2013)
• EY Entrepreneur of the Year award (2014)
• Pantene Shine Award for helping women shine
• Fame Award for ‘Outstanding Entrepreneur – Fashion and Lifestyle’ (2020)

Favourite Things

• Food: Hors d’oeuvre
• Travel Destination(s): Paris, New York
• Colour: White

Facts/Trivia

Anita Dongre enjoys traveling and listening to music. She follows a vegan diet and is an animal lover with five pet dogs. Her mentor is Ritambhara. She’s been featured on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar. She is the first woman entrepreneur in her family, breaking tradition and achieving international acclaim, dressing prominent figures including Hillary Clinton and Kim Kardashian, as well as numerous Bollywood celebrities.

Here’s a summary of Anita Dongre’s brand presence (as of 2020):