プラバルグルンさんのインスタグラム写真 - (プラバルグルンInstagram)「The Duchess of Cambridge wore a dress (one of my absolute favourite prints, inspired by the incredible Japanese artist Nobuyoshi Araki) from our Spring 2012 collection, for the state dinner during her September 11, 2012 Jubilee Royal Tour in Singapore. I am forever grateful for this moment because it validated my team’s hard work, for as we all know behind every designer there are many unsung dream makers. It also validated my “impossible dreams.” Yes, I was probably the first person, definitely the first guy from Nepal, who decided to pursue fashion as a career. Growing up I didn’t have role models in the fashion industry in Nepal as it didn’t exist then. There were a gazillion naysayers but I followed my gut and my instinct. I was also incredibly privileged to have the undying support from my family. When I was leaving Nepal for New York to study fashion, I was asked, “Fashion? Well, that’s a great hobby for women. What do you really want to do?” Yes, I was a cautionary tale of how or what not to be back home in Nepal because neither did I fit in nor did I follow the heteronormative idea of what a man should look like, act like and dream like. I was constantly bullied and taunted because I was an effeminate kid who was truly in touch with his soul and emotions. But the homophobic patriarchal world more than 20 years ago could not see past my outer layer and tried to make my existence an invisible one. But I fought back and am glad I went through that because it really toughened me and prepared me for this world today. That is one of the many reasons why I continue to fight for visibility, inclusivity representation and a seat at the table. I am sharing this because while the validation from outside world and the likes and views on Instagram may feel good momentarily, the true, gratifying moment comes when you are in an absolute state of freedom from needing approval from the outside world. When their words don’t matter and the only thing that does is your gut instinct and soul led by empathy for others and yourself. That is what I wish for you all today. Freedom to be your absolute self. Happy Weekend. xPG」9月12日 22時54分