It was fashion with compassion at designer Vikram Phadnis’ show at Lakme Fashion Week. Dozens of film celebrities walked the ramp showcasing his line inspired by the Swades Foundation that works towards the empowerment of women. In happy hues of red, orange and mustard, the collection celebrated Indian silhouettes and textiles. The designer, who used the sun as a predominant motif, felt that it was symbolic of the rural folk “who give so much without asking anything in return. Without them, we will be nowhere.” So as a tribute to them he travelled to Raigad, for a first-hand experience of the Swades Foundation’s work and also featured some of the rural women on the ramp.