IndiaPost.com - Shekhar’s fashion spectacle

NEW YORK: The United Nations General Assembly was a riot of colors on April 25 when more than 450 guests from 192 countries celebrated the annual "UN Staff Day 08" with a spectacular fashion show by Shekhar Rahate, an Indian American designer.

Described as the first fashion show of its kind at the UN by an Indian designer, the event was introduced by reigning Miss Universe 2007, Riyo Mori and anchored by Anand Pandey from the UN Office of the Executive Secretary, ICSC.

San Francisco-based Rahate, who was invited by the UN Staff Union, NY, presented an international collection with 10 models representing different ethnicities. Among them were two celebrity models, including Miss India Northern California Madhu Punjabi and Miss Tourism China, Yu Chenyan.

The "UN Staff Day" is celebrated each year to acknowledge the United Nations staff members. The daylong event was marked off by a flag-hoisting ceremony by Deputy Secretary-General followed by the "Parade of Nations" and the fashion show.

"The idea was to organize something in line with the unique 'Parade of Nations,' a grand showcase of 192 countries' traditional dresses, which gives a message of peace and cultural harmony to the world and supports the UN 'Go Green' environmental sustainability program," said Pandey, who is also the public relations officer of the Indian Club at the UN.

Rahate's collection was symbolic of environmentally-friendly designs, showcasing the event's theme of cultural support for a green United Nations. Rahate has hosted for 14 years fashion shows and beauty pageants around the world and is responsible for launching the modeling careers of several Bollywood celebrities.

He is part of the biggest and only international Indian pageant Miss India Worldwide for the past 10 years as national and regional director, organizing and presenting beauty pageants in many countries such as India, the UAE, Germany, France and the United States.

The gowns making the catwalk at the UN General Assembly were western evening and wedding gowns, mainly pastel colored with hints of South Asian flair. The gowns were made from natural fabrics such as georgette, satin and raw silk.

Rahate further embellished the designs with hand embroidery, beadwork and crystals. As the models streamed into the room, they were met with cameras, excitement and ovation as guests were held in awe given the range of Rahate's designs and display. "It certainly posses a unique challenge to blend fashion and international culture in one as the theme of my fashion show," noted Rahate.

"I am glad I was able to spread the message of international peace and development through my choreography and design." Rahate is currently working on a movie showcasing the beauty pageants he has been associated with in the past.