The freedom of breaking away was wonderful, but it was also unnerving. When you invest everything you have, there's always the fear of failure. I regained my confidence only when I began getting clients after my first show, Rasa, in '97, and opened my outlet in Defence Colony last August.

I'm thrilled with my Spring-Summer Collection, Summer Wine, which was shown last Saturday at Hotel Imperial. It was inspired by the song of the same name which evokes images of soft pastels -- peaches, mushrooms and greens.

The L. A. influence is very much there, as the collection is inspired by old Hollywood favourites -- Gone with the Wind, Anthony and Cleopatra, Hello Dolly. My designs are very basic and clean, with minimum embroidery. I emphasise on the cut and flow of the fabric western cuts and drapes with Indian weaves. While I have always specialised in styling and detailing, my designs have changed over the past few years. I had to adapt to the Indian market, as I was used to Western designs. Initially, I didn't experiment. After all, I was yet to establish myself. Now I'm much bolder, more confident.

Today, people are more fashion conscious. They expect better quality and designs at the right price. Trash no longer sells just because it comes with a huge price tag. Clients demand the best. I have won over many regulars since I opened my outlet since personal attention and interaction makes a difference. I understand the needs of each individual, so the colors and drapes are very personalised. I would never sell a woman an outfit if I felt it didn't suit her. All the outfits at the show have been booked. When you invest such a lot of money, your biggest fear is whether you'll sell, so it's a wonderful feeling.

What I enjoy most about my work is the process of translating what I have visualised into a real outfit. I insist of perfection in every piece, even if it is turned inside out. Quality speaks for itself and when you see that smile on a clients' face, you know you've succeeded.

Whenever I get a little spare time, I like to spend it with my family and close friends. My mother, Akash Dharmaraj, who is a psychotherapist and Reiki Master, was my inspiration for a long time. My husband, Amit Lepps, is another person who's been behind me through and through. Sheetal Mallar, who is a common friend, introduced us to each other about six years ago and we got married last February. He's a former model and upcoming industrialist, and is the only man I design for.

If there's one thing I can't stand, it's going to parties just to show my face. I prefer to relax at home with my husband. I'm a movie freak, so we often watch oldies together, be it in English or Hindi. I also enjoy working out, so I'm at the Parkroyal gym as often as possible. But right now, I'm concentrating on work. As soon as one collection is over, I'll begin working on the next. I've just got over my teething troubles, the real challenges lie ahead. I know there is a lot of hard work involved, but all I hope for is to be happy.''