Kartik Research Postpones Paris Fashion Week Runway Show Following Employee Death

The New Delhi-based menswear label Kartik Research has officially postponed its upcoming runway show, which was scheduled to take place during Paris Fashion Week. The decision follows the tragic death of 26-year-old Divyanshu Joshi, an employee of the brand, on May 28.

The runway presentation, originally slated for June 25 on the official Paris men’s schedule, will no longer proceed as planned. A spokesperson for the brand confirmed the postponement to GQ, noting that a new date for the show has not yet been determined.

Circumstances of the Tragedy

Divyanshu Joshi, who had managed the brand’s Delhi retail location for two years and frequently modeled for its campaigns, died in the state of Kerala. Reports indicate that the incident occurred at an abandoned stone quarry. According to information shared by the brand and various news outlets, the team had been in the region for a seasonal photo shoot.

In a statement released via Instagram on May 31, the brand addressed the loss, identifying Joshi as a “dear colleague and friend.” The company sought to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident, stating that Joshi was in Kerala for a professional production but was not participating in swimming as part of the shoot. The brand emphasized that the swimming activity was unrelated to their production or location scouting.

Brand Background and Impact

Kartik Research has gained significant attention in the global fashion industry for its distinctive menswear. Founded by Kartik Kumra in 2021, the label has been recognized twice as an LVMH Prize semi-finalist, in 2023 and 2026. The brand expanded its international presence last year with the opening of a flagship store in New York City.

As the investigation into the incident continues, the fashion community has expressed its condolences. The postponement of the Paris Fashion Week show marks a somber moment for the label, which has become one of India’s most prominent emerging menswear exports in recent years.

Key Takeaways

• Show Postponed: Kartik Research has removed its June 25 runway show from the Paris Fashion Week calendar following the death of staff member Divyanshu Joshi.
• Ongoing Investigation: The incident occurred at an abandoned quarry in Kerala; local authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of the death.
• Brand Statement: Kartik Research has clarified that the employee was not engaged in swimming as part of the production activities at the time of the incident.

As of now, the brand has not provided a timeline for its future runway appearances, focusing instead on the aftermath of the tragedy. Further updates regarding the label’s schedule are expected to be released through official channels.