We recently had the chance to connect with Rekha Ananthanpillai and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Rekha , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
When I started La’ Agra, I set out to create something meaningful: a fashion line that celebrates South Asian design—from vibrant prints to luxurious fabrics to intricate notions—while embracing a truly Indo-Western aesthetic.
But I’ve noticed something. When people see my designs or the models wearing them, they sometimes say, “That’s not for me,” or ask why I don’t only feature Indian models. I want to clear this up: while Indian women are a cherished part of my customer base, La’ Agra was never meant to be exclusive to one culture.
I created this brand to be inclusive—to welcome women of all backgrounds who appreciate artistry, craftsmanship, and clothing that tells a story. My goal is to make South Asian culture more approachable and wearable, which is exactly why I showcase diverse models.
The materials and details aren’t barriers—they’re bridges. La’ Agra is for the woman who wants to stand out, who values the care in every stitch, and who’s curious about the rich cultural heritage behind each piece. It’s about education, celebration, and spreading beauty through design.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Fashion has always been my first love. Growing up, I was captivated by my culture and heritage—the rich textiles, the intricate prints, the stories woven into every fabric and design.
When I saw other designers working to make Indian clothing mainstream, I felt inspired but also saw a different path. My vision for La’ Agra wasn’t just about bringing Indian fashion into the spotlight—it was about creating a space where Indian culture could be appreciated in all its forms, by everyone.
I started with clothing because fashion has always been my passion. Being a designer was a childhood dream, and launching La’ Agra was my first step in highlighting the rich tapestry of India. Through fusion fashion, I wanted to tell a new story: that Indian design is more than lehengas and saris, more than clothing reserved for one group of people.
Each piece I create is intentionally designed to spark joy and creativity. Rather than loud or bold, my designs are soft and subtle—infused with meaning. I’m reimagining unique cultural elements in a modern way, from chic cocktail dresses to everyday tops. These aren’t just event pieces. They’re designed for everything in between.
Even as an Indian American woman, I often felt overwhelmed by traditional Indian clothing. The fabrics felt itchy, uncomfortable, unapproachable. When I designed my brand, I set out to change that stigma. I softened the elements that can feel loud or intimidating and made them easy and comfortable to wear—pieces that transition effortlessly from day to night, spring to summer.
When you wear La’ Agra, you’re not just supporting a small business. You’re part of a larger story. Every brocade, tassel, and notion represents a piece of history and culture. You’re supporting local artisans and trade skills passed down through generations. Each artisan hand-makes the prints and fabrics, embracing the story of La’ Agra with every stitch.
This brand isn’t just about making South Asian-inspired clothing mainstream—it’s about making South Asian culture mainstream. It’s about spreading the richness of our cultural history and embracing joy and love for a heritage that deserves to be celebrated by all.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
This might sound cheesy, but my biggest inspiration is the Universe itself.
I truly believe there’s a plan for each of us—even when we can’t see it, even when we don’t understand why certain doors close. The Universe knows.
When I graduated from college, I had a clear vision: move to NYC, work for Ralph Lauren or Burberry, build a career in fashion. I interviewed everywhere. And I was met with rejection after rejection. At the time, it felt like failure. Now I understand that rejection was redirection.The Universe had a bigger plan for me.
Nearly ten years later, I got the chance to attend design school and launch my own brand. All those years of building business knowledge through my professional experience equipped me to run a successful clothing line. None of this would have been possible if I’d gotten those jobs I thought I wanted.
The Universe taught me to trust—even in the darkest moments—that the light will come. And when it does, it shines brighter than you ever imagined.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
My biggest challenge? Fear of failure and the embarrassment that comes with it.
We’ve been conditioned to believe that failing means we’re not good enough, that it defines our worth. But the truth is, failure is just part of the process—it’s where the real learning happens. Entrepreneurship has forced me to confront this fear head-on. I’ve launched products I was convinced would be successful, only to watch them fall flat. Learning to be okay with that—to not internalize it as a personal shortcoming—has been one of the hardest lessons of my journey. But every failure has taught me something I needed to know.
The biggest lesson? Not trying creates far more regret than failing ever will.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
Everything happens for a reason—even when we can’t see it.
It’s easy to get caught up in the “why,” to search for answers that aren’t ready to reveal themselves. But I believe deeply that there’s a bigger plan, something beyond us guiding why things unfold the way they’re meant to.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m surrounded by people I love and care for.
Peace comes from being aligned with who you are—your values, your truth, and the people you surround yourself with. The older I get, the more I notice how certain people make me feel. And that awareness has been one of life’s greatest teachers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laagra.com
- Instagram: @la.agra
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laagraofficial/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@laagraofficial
Image Credits
Azalea Jeanette (all photos but 3) others are unknown
