The Nehru jacket, known for its stand-up mandarin collar and buttoned front, is more than just Indian ethnic wear - it’s a symbol of timeless style. Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who often wore this style publicly, the jacket’s global journey began in the 1960s.

Though rooted in the traditional achkan, worn by Indian royals, the jacket gained worldwide fame when it caught the attention of The Beatles. On 15 August 1965, during their New York concert, the iconic band wore close-collared jackets in pale blue. Their embrace of Eastern spirituality and Indian aesthetics helped take this Indian garment into Western pop culture.

Time Magazine even listed the Nehru jacket in its top 10 political fashion statements. Hollywood too adopted the look - from James Bond’s villain Dr. No to Austin Powers’ Dr. Evil, and many runway revivals.

Today, luxury brands often feature this design without crediting its Indian roots. Despite trends shifting, the Nehru jacket remains a fashion classic - proudly Indian, globally admired.