From its humble beginnings in Aligarh, India, a tailor shop named Mehdi Hasan Tailor has become a global legend, recognized for its craftsmanship of the traditional Indian garment, the sherwani. This isn’t just a business; it’s a keeper of cultural history, dressing generations of India’s most important figures and connecting people worldwide to their roots.
A Royal Beginning
The sherwani, with its origins in Turkish royal attire, was once worn only by kings and aristocrats. After India’s independence in 1947, it was adopted by modern leaders, starting with the country’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. In the 1940s, Mehdi Hasan’s founder moved to Aligarh and earned his reputation when he was able to create a perfect sherwani for a local nawab (prince) who was tired of traveling to Delhi for his suits. This single achievement launched a legacy that would go on to dress presidents and prime ministers.
Dressing the Dignitaries
The shop’s most significant relationship began with Dr. Zakir Hussain, who later became the President of India. For 17 years, Mehdi Hasan Tailor created his sherwanis, continuing the tradition with his successors. This deep trust was passed down to the current owner, Engineer Anwar Mehdi, who gave up his academic career to continue the family business. Under his leadership, the shop has continued to serve political leaders, including Presidents Pranab Mukherjee, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, and Ram Nath Kovind.
From Bollywood to the World
The shop’s fame isn’t limited to politics. When Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan needed sherwanis, the tailors took personal trips to Lucknow and Mumbai to ensure the perfect fit. This dedication to service and craftsmanship has made them a go-to for celebrities and a global brand. Today, they receive international orders from Canada, Europe, the USA, and the Middle East, with customers eager to own a piece of this unique cultural heritage. The shop even makes over 20 different styles, from simple designs to heavily embroidered wedding attire.
The Art and Science of the Perfect Fit
What makes a Mehdi Hasan sherwani so special is the attention to detail. The tailors believe that a perfect fit goes beyond simple measurements; it’s about understanding a person’s unique body shape. They analyze every detail, from the slope of a person’s shoulders to the curve of their back, to create a garment that fits flawlessly. This intricate process, which includes precise cutting by master tailors, ensures that each sherwani not only fits but also enhances the wearer’s natural posture and elegance.
A Community’s Pride
Each year, during the Sir Syed Day celebrations at Aligarh Muslim University, the city is filled with students wearing black sherwanis. Mehdi Hasan Tailor becomes the heart of this tradition, creating over a thousand sherwanis in just a month and a half. This practice instills a sense of pride and belonging in the students, connecting them to the university’s rich history. The shop also donates sherwanis to students who can’t afford them, making sure this tradition remains accessible to all.
Honing a Timeless Craft
Becoming a master sherwani artisan is a long journey. It takes about 15 years for an apprentice to become a master tailor, learning everything from hand stitching and machine work to pressing and finishing. The shop still employs artisans who worked with the founder, ensuring that traditional techniques are passed down through generations. This blend of old-world skill and modern adaptation is why Mehdi Hasan Tailor continues to be a symbol of excellence and tradition, stitching not just clothing, but a legacy that spans generations.
Read More: Rajesh Rajak: Delivery Boy Becomes Deputy Superintendent in JPSC Triumph
You can connect with the india bol on Twitter, and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
