Photos: Tarun Tahiliani brings Maha Kumbh on the runway

Titled Kumbhack, designer Tarun Tahiliani presented his collection on Day 2 of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/ Winter 2012.

Models sashayed down the ramp in saffron dresses amid the chant of mantras for Tarun Tahiliani's 'Kumbhack' collection at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week Autumn/ Winter 2013 in Delhi.

Adding more drama to the show was the live performance by Sounds of Isha, a band founded by the Isha Foundation.

Tahiliani went spiritual for his latest collection, which is inspired by the way sadhus dress.

"I had gone to Kumbh at Makar Sakranti for two days and it was spectacular. We have become a divided society and shun the power of such holy practices. I think sadhus deserve to be loved and admired," Tahiliani told reporters post-show.

Models walked the ramp in long braids with especially designed garlands on their head. Even males wore dhoti teamed with bandhgalas.

"I like what they (sadhus) wear. They just tuck it around in rounds and similarly my clothes can be worn in the same manner, I have always been inspired by their draping sense and wanted to bring it in my collection. I think we are losing the draping techniques gradually. Since I have been to the ashram, I thought to use the draping technique in more purposeful way and therefore, used various shades of saffron. I think it is the right time to do this collection," he added.

The designer has also focused on ready-to-wear dresses this time. He said his dresses are for working women who need to get ready quickly.

"I have toned down the complex dresses to make it user-friendly. They can be worn within minutes and look very refreshing," said the designer.

The collection embraces a multitude of techniques, designs and fabric – including laser etching, zardozi, applique, badhini, jamewar, tie and dye, velvet, animal prints, satin, thick jersey.

Mix and match with this draped jersey skirt with a jersey and organza kedeo inspired jacket.

This pre-stitched saree drape in blue bandhani with shibori and ajrakh is an eye-catcher.

Here's a rouche flounce dress in hand-textured chiffon, in deep sunset crimson, with that gilet.

Styling, colour, pattern, embroidery, silhouette, and above all, layering, come together to showcase the heightened, ephemeral emotion of the Mela.