New Delhi: In an age shaped by trends, expectations and constant comparison, staying true to oneself can often be the most courageous choice. Celebrating the power of individuality and meaningful conversations, The Times of India, in association with Starbucks, hosted another edition of its D-Stress series Thursday. Centred around the theme “The Courage to Be Yourself”, the session featured acclaimed fashion designer and couturier Mayyur Girotra, who reflected on identity, self-expression and authenticity in a rapidly evolving world. The evening began with an immersive coffee-tasting experience at Starbucks Reserve, Hamilton House, Connaught Place, where guests explored the flavours of microblend no. 21. The coffee beans were paired with fruit and chocolate combinations, offering a sensory journey that encouraged participants to slow down, savour the moment and engage more mindfully with their surroundings. The conversation that followed was moderated by Amin Ali, independent editor and adviser, and focused on the importance of de-stressing, self-awareness and remaining authentic amid constant digital distractions. Drawing from his personal journey, Girotra spoke about leaving behind a successful corporate career to build a globally recognised fashion label rooted in Indian heritage, craftsmanship and creativity. For him, authenticity is shaped not by trends but by lived experiences. “Fashion, for me, is not just about designing clothes. It is about preserving stories, celebrating craftsmanship, and creating something timeless enough to outlive trends,” he said. As the discussion turned to the pressures of modern life, Girotra highlighted the need to reclaim attention and presence in an increasingly distracted world. He shared how consciously reducing screen time has transformed his daily routine and mindset. “Over the last few years, I’ve consciously started practising being more present. One of the biggest changes I’ve made is not switching on my phone first thing in the morning. When I’m in a conversation, I try not to be on my phone because listening requires presence,” he said, adding that de-stressing is essential not only for productivity but also for inner peace. The designer also spoke about authenticity in the digital age, arguing that genuine self-expression comes from real-world interactions rather than online validation. “If you want to be authentic, you need to spend some time offline. Authenticity comes from real experiences, meeting people, travelling, observing, listening, and feeling emotions first hand. No technology can replace the human touch of a conversation or the experience of sitting next to someone and hearing their story,” he said. Reflecting on the impact of social media, Girotra acknowledged its benefits while cautioning against the culture of comparison it often creates. He emphasised the importance of self-awareness and perspective, noting that reminding himself of his own journey helps him stay grounded and focused on what truly matters. As people asked questions and interacted, the conversation also explored how fashion can serve as a language of individuality, what clothing communicates before words are spoken, and why taking time to appreciate art, culture and craftsmanship can bring greater meaning to modern life.
