India, June 25 -- JJ Valaya wears many crowns - from pioneering India's fashion scene to capturing timeless moments through his lens, he is truly the czar of Indian couture and luxury. While his commanding presence might seem intimidating at first, those who know him well quickly discover his sharp wit and delightful sense of humour. For our exclusive shout, we convinced the couturier to embrace his signature regal style and pose adorned in jewels - a first for the designer - inviting us into the exquisite World of Valaya, where heritage and haute couture merge effortlessly.

Reflecting on his journey, Valaya calls his shift from chartered accountancy to fashion design "a divine intervention". "I had a profound realisation while doing CA ...