"I wanted the clothes to scream India," Bal told IANS. He would be the first Indian designer ever to participate at the event, one of the biggest design forums in Europe, which attracts top participation from 80 countries. 

Filled with gorgeous blouses, layered skirts, and that Bal idiosyncrasy, skirts for men, the collection would be showcased at the Saint-Etienne International Design Biennial to be held during Nov 6-14 at the picturesque city of Saint-Etienne in the south of France.

"This event has become one of the most important things in the international design calendar," said Dominique Girard, the French ambassador in India.

"The organisers decided that it was time to educate people about what a rich heritage in textile and design India has. All the history and tradition of India needed to be showcased at such a global forum."

Bal is the top billed participant from India at the event this year, where Mumbai designer Narendra Kumar, furniture maker Saleem Bhatri and textiles expert Meera Naidu will also participate.

"At a forum like this, it is very important to understand one's own heritage and reflect it," said Bal.

--Indo-Asian News Service