Famous Last Words: Manish Malhotra On Style, Success And His Spotify Soundtrack
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia speaks to the Indian fashion designer and creative director on his greatest achievement and guiltiest pleasure
Harper’s Bazaar Arabia (HBA): Is it more important to be liked or respected?
Manish Malhotra (MM): It’s more important to be happy than to be liked or respected. You need to be happy with your life and with the work you do and the decisions you take. One needs to like and respect themselves first than to seek the validation of others.
HBA: What book changed your life?
MM: I think more than books, movies changed my life. I learnt so much from them growing up. I loved the glamour, the colours, the drama, the music, the emotions that would transport you into a world of storytelling, a world that I wanted to be a part of, and I made sure I was.
HBA: What did your last Spotify Wrapped look like?
MM: Old Hindi songs.
HBA: What is your motto?
MM: Love what you do in life and it will love you back.
HBA: Who is your hero?
MM: My mother.
HBA: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
MM: I’ve learned my work on the job and with the experience I’ve gathered, so if I could change that then I think I would like to study fashion design.
HBA: What’s your greatest extravagance?
MM: I haven’t had it yet.
HBA: What are you proudest of?
MM: It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how our work has brought Indian couture to the global stage while celebrating the artistry of our weavers and artisans. Every creation tells a story and being part of people’s special moments through my designs is something I’m deeply proud of.
HBA: What does success mean to you?
MM: Success, for me, is about creating a lasting impact through my work. It’s not just about accolades or fame, but about staying true to my vision and bringing Indian craftsmanship to the world stage. When I see people resonate with my designs, when my work contributes to preserving our heritage while pushing boundaries, that’s true success. It’s also about growth – continuously evolving, learning and inspiring others in the process.
HBA: What would you ban if you had the chance?
MM: Airport looks. Just be comfortable when you’re travelling.
HBA: What’s your most treasured possession?
MM: My home and my office.
HBA: What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
MM: I think anything sweet. I love desserts.
HBA: If you could be anyone else, who would it be and why?
MM: I don’t want to be anyone else. I’m happy and content being me.
HBA: What experience taught you most about life and why?
MM: That success doesn’t come overnight. It’s built through passion, perseverance and a deep respect for the journey and your work. That experience shaped my outlook on life and continues to inspire me every day.
HBA: What inspires you most about your job?
MM: Everything! I mean that. I absolutely love what I do. I wake up each morning excited to go to work even today. From the multiple ideation conversations with my team, the design process, the artisans I work with, their craftsmanship and dedication to finishing touches to an ensemble. Every design is an expression of creativity, culture and emotion and the process of bringing that vision to life excites me.
HBA: If you could only wear one brand for the rest of your life, what would it be?
MM: My own.
HBA: What would you tell your younger self?
MM: Trust the process and everything will fall into place. Stay true to your vision and always remember that passion and hard work will pave the way.
HBA: What do you most value in your friends?
MM: Their unwavering support and honesty. True friends are those who stand by you through every phase of life offering genuine advice and encouragement. Loyalty, trust, and shared moments of laughter make these friendships so meaningful.
HBA: What trait do you admire most in others?
MM: Honesty, hard work and intelligence.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@manishmalhotra05