Masaba Gupta, born in 1989, has become a notable figure in the fashion industry, celebrated for her distinctive and innovative designs. Drawing on her eclectic and creative sense of fashion, Gupta has made a significant impact by shattering conventions and creating fresh, uncomplicated forms for contemporary Indian women. Her brand, the House of Masaba, bridges the gap between Haute and Pret Couture with ensembles suitable for any occasion. From destination wedding collections to holiday, party, and resort wear, her label’s extensive inventory features signature colors, motifs, and aesthetics, which have also been incorporated into various other product categories through collaborations.

Early Years

Masaba Gupta was born to West Indian cricketer Sir Viv Richards and Indian actress Neena Gupta. Raised in Mumbai, her upbringing was influenced by her vibrant cultural heritage. Her mother moved the family from New Delhi to Mumbai, and Masaba was primarily raised by her. At the age of 20, Masaba reconnected with her father and developed a close relationship with him. She also found a father figure in her late maternal grandfather.

From a young age, Masaba was involved in diverse activities, playing tennis from the age of eight until sixteen. Initially aspiring to join Shiamak Davar’s dance group, she later pursued music and dance in London but left due to feelings of loneliness and homelessness. Eventually, she enrolled at SNDT Women’s University’s Premlila Vithaldas Polytechnic, where she faced occasional racism from fellow students.

Career

At 19, Masaba Gupta applied to Mumbai with the assistance of Wendell Rodricks. Her debut collection, “Kattran” (miniature fragments of fabric), showcased her early promise. She drew inspiration from the doe-eyed gypsy girl character Saskia in Roman Payne’s book The Wanderess for her 2014 Lakme Fashion Week collection. Gupta’s designs blend traditional and contemporary elements, with a focus on ethnic clothing for women, using materials such as silk, chiffon, cotton, and intricate embroidery. She is known for her unique prints, feminine drapes, and modern silhouettes.

Gupta’s design ethos, characterized by a fusion of cultural elements, is reflected in her collections. For instance, her Tamil script sarees and jackets and her use of cotton and muslin highlight a distinct Indian identity in a modern context.

In 2016, Gupta collaborated with Maybelline New York to create a clothing range inspired by their latest lipstick line, although the project faced several practical challenges. She also represented India in a 2017 exhibit of Levi’s iconic trucker jacket, employing her signature cow motif. Gupta is recognized for pioneering an Instagram fashion show and attributes 60% of her sales to WhatsApp.

Her hijab-saree collection, launched in 2018, catered to Muslim women desiring high-end Indian fashion. In a groundbreaking move, she and her mother, Neena Gupta, starred in the semi-fictional Netflix series Masaba Masaba, which offered viewers a glimpse into their lives through the lenses of fashion and cinema.

Collaborations and Expansions

The House of Masaba has continually expanded its product line, including swimwear, menswear, fashion jewelry, and accessories. A notable collaboration with the beauty portal Nykaa resulted in the Masaba by Nykaa limited edition collection, featuring unique beauty items like nail polishes, perfumes, and lipsticks. Gupta also launched the Masaba X GOT capsule collection in collaboration with HBO’s Game of Thrones, which included clothing and jewelry inspired by the show.

Personal Life

Masaba Gupta married film producer Madhu Mantena in a civil ceremony in 2015. However, the couple announced a trial separation in late 2018 and finalized their divorce in September 2019.

Television Appearances

• 2019: Judge on MTV Supermodel of the Year
• 2020–2022: Herself on Masaba Masaba
• 2022: Saiba in Modern Love: Mumbai

Conclusion

After graduating from SNDT Women’s University in 2009, Masaba Gupta launched her label, House of Masaba. Her promising debut at Lakme Fashion Week at 19 established her as a transformative force in the fashion industry. Known as the “Queen of Prints,” she has inspired a generation of designers and was recognized in the Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2017. Her multifaceted creativity and business acumen have solidified her position as a leading fashion designer and a successful entrepreneur.