CHENNAI: Chennai-based designer Ritika Kankani runs a label called Rainne by Ritika. Fashion is her passion and she loves to style people. The designer specialises in working with the Indian weaves and handwork. Ritika believes in customising for the people and making them understand their own style and not be repetitive.
Where would you take someone new to the city?
Broken bridge to find solace in the city… And Q Bar to rock.
Some favourite haunts in the city that no Chennaiite should miss?
For tourists – Connemara library, Theosophical Society, Lighthouse, Amethyst, and KNK Road
Your favourite spot for a quick one-day outing in and around Chennai?
Obviously, Mahabalipuram, especially the shore temple.
What makes Chennai so special?
People and their intellect. I find Chennaiittes are educated and most importantly not judgmental.
An incident at a public place that made you think, ‘this is namma chennai?’
People during floods and cyclone Vardha. They were amazing, it makes me feel proud (smiles)
Any stereotype about the city that makes you roll your eyes?
The assumption that people here don’t want to learn or talk in any language other than Tamil…and the stuff about the weather.
Something in Chennai that can’t be found in any part of the world?
Politics here is crazy!
What would you do to prove to someone that you are a true Chennai vasi?
Yellai saapadu…I believe only a true Chennai vasi can enjoy that.
If you could install another statue at Marina Beach, what would it be of?
Anything depicting peace, a dove may be.
One particular part or area of the city that you would like to explore further?
The beach.
Where would you take a guy out on a hot date?
Plan B.
Something you can’t stand about the place?
The long summers (sighs)!