Topi is Cool

The slim boat-shaped Gandhi Topi, popularized by Mahatma Gandhi during the independence movement, has made a comeback, thanks to Anna Hazare, the anti-corruption crusader. New Delhi, where Hazare is leading the campaign, has been flooded with “I am Anna” topis and vendors can’t keep up with demand. At IIT Kharagpur, several graduating students wore the topi instead of the traditional graduation cap to receive their diplomas. At Lakme Fashion Week several prominent celebrities, such as Vidya Balan and Sridevi, sported the topi.

The Bellaragazza designer brand has announced plans to launch its “Gandhi Topi” collection made of khadi and cotton next month. Designer Mamta Rawal said, “The Gandhi Topi is very much back in fashion. I can see teenagers wearing the Gandhi Topi with a high pony tail. As today’s generation does everything with style, the Gandhi Topi is very much in vogue.” said of Bellaragazza.