India Couture Week 2026 came to a poetic close with Rahul Mishra presenting DEVI, the couture collection that recently made its Paris Haute Couture Week debut before returning to an Indian runway. The finale belonged to Sobhita Dhulipala, who stepped onto the runway not simply as the show's closing face, but as the embodiment of the collection's central idea.

Drawing inspiration from 11th-century South Indian bronze sculptures, temple architecture and the philosophy of the divine feminine, ‘DEVI’ explored craftsmanship through Rahul Mishra's signature ektaarka embroidery. Layer by layer, the intricate handwork transformed fabric into sculptural surfaces that echoed carved stone while retaining the softness and movement expected of couture.

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Before the runway presentation began, guests experienced the garments in an intimate setting where models stood wearing the creations, allowing every embroidered motif, handcrafted detail and sculptural finish to be viewed up close. The presentation also featured previously unseen looks developed during the evolution of ‘DEVI’, alongside Rahul Mishra's latest Festive Couture collection, which introduced floral motifs, hand-painted textiles, intricate zardozi work and contemporary silhouettes grounded in Indian craftsmanship.

 

For the finale, Sobhita Dhulipala appeared as the visual interpretation of ‘DEVI’. In a note shared after the showcase, Rahul Mishra described ‘DEVI’ as "not a character, but an idea that has endured across centuries," explaining that the presentation sought to bring that enduring spirit into the present. He also shared that Sobhita was envisioned not as a conventional showstopper, but as the living muse who has inspired generations of sculptors, artisans and storytellers.

Watch the video here-

Her walk unfolded alongside the ritual of śṛṅgāra, where each ornament became another layer of adornment. Created in collaboration with Nexxus New York, the magnolia-inspired couture hair accessory became a defining element of the presentation, while select looks were paired with high jewellery co-designed with Tanishq Natural Diamonds, bringing together couture, beauty and craftsmanship in a single narrative.

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With ‘DEVI’ returning home after Paris and closing the final evening of India Couture Week 2026, Rahul Mishra concluded the season with a presentation rooted in artistry, heritage and meticulous handwork, while Sobhita Dhulipala became the collection's final expression on the runway.