"Living and working alongside the villagers, always unleashes my creative energies" -- Bibi Russell

Illustration: Deepita

To Bibi goes the credit of propagating the slogans 'Fashion for Development' and 'Positive Bangladesh'. Through her organisation Bibi Productions, she reaches out to around 35,000 weavers, crafts people and tailors. Her untiring efforts have improved the economic conditions of this segment. Also remarkable is Bibi's unflagging work to showcase the skills of indigenous weavers through her fashion shows in Bangladesh, India, Europe, North America and Africa.

Here is a glimpse of a telephonic conversation with Bibi:

What is your greatest regret?
I am not a negative person. However I am sad that I am still at the first step of the ladder in spreading awareness about Bangladesh's beautiful crafts. I strongly believe that there should be more support to crafts people in Bangladesh.

What is your most embarrassing moment?
None so far. I don't go anywhere that will prove embarrassing. I go where I can relax and I greatly enjoy my work.

What is the wildest thing you have ever done?
I can't say. Yes, people often say that what I am doing is wild.

What are your musical favourites?
Music is a part of my life and I really love it. I listen to classical, Tagore, folk and old songs. For instance I like Bangla songs of SD Burman, Hemanta Mukhopadhyay and KL Saigal. I also go for western and Indian music along with Lalon. I am not that enamoured by modern songs. Music gives me calmness and a spiritual energy.

Who is your role model?
My late father, Shidu Mia, was a great inspiration for me. A reflection of his open mindedness is his green signal to let me study at the London College of Fashion. I graduated from this institute in 1975 with a degree in fashion design. If I am Bibi Russell with my feet on the ground it is because of inspiration from my parents.

What makes you angry?
I can't think. However you could say I often question why I didn't come back to Dhaka earlier. I spent 20 years abroad and returned as late as 1994.

What is your idea of beauty?
In my view, the answer is eyes that sparkle like two stars.

Things you love about being famous.
I am not famous. True I may be recognised and appreciated but it never occurs to me that I am famous. Recognition helps me go further and achieve more. If I had been famous, I would have got all the support to promote the weavers' cause. As it is, it is hard to find sponsors. People know me but I would like their support.