Anokhi Fashion Lifestyle Entertaiment

A regal evening with the Jaipur Royal Family to celebrate iconic fashion designer, JJ Valaya's 20th Anniversary collection in Toronto.

On Sunday June 10, 2012 Toronto had a regal awakening as Maharaj Narendra Singh and HRH Princess Diya Kumari of the Jaipur Royal Family were in attendance to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of renowned couturier, JJ Valaya.

JJ Valaya was in town celebrating the 20th anniversary of The House of Valaya, a luxury fashion and lifestyle brand — which he co-founded in 1992, with his brother, TJ SIngh — by presenting an exclusive collection in Toronto.

The Gala evening was preceded by an exhibition polo game, held the day before, where the Royal Jaipur Polo Team led by Maharaj Narendra Singh went head to head with the Toronto Polo Team for a riveting match. That evening the Gala dinner commenced which included movers and shakers from the South Asian community as well as a broad spectrum of politicos from across Canada.

The highlight of the evening was an elaborate ready-to-wear runway show, inspired by the Ottoman Empire, which was exclusively presented by The House of Valaya featuring their trademark opulent collection of various evening ensembles which befits any royal setting. Known for his avant-garde approach to bridal and formal wear, The House of Valaya has dressed royalty, celebrities and various tastemakers from around the world.

"This the first time I am showcasing in Toronto, and I am extremely excited," said JJ Valaya during the pre-dinner and show cocktails. "I am touched by the warm welcome I have received."

One of India's senior most and best-known designers, JJ Valaya is a founding member of the Board of Governors of the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) and was the first official brand ambassador for Swarovski, India.

The sold out event was organized by Eventivity Inc., and was held at the prestigious Liberty Grand in Toronto. "We are very honoured and proud to be able to bring the JJ Valaya Anniversary collection to Canada," said Ayesha Mawaz-Khan and Dr. Nozhat Choudry co-founders of Eventivity Inc. Fashionistas who watched the stunning show were also able to purchase the various outfits, which were on display that evening and proving that one needn't be a royal to dress like one.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARTHUR VON TYRPA AND FIDELIS LOBO / POSTED JUNE 14, 2012