By Mewati Sitaram
In the heart of Mumbai, the name M.N. Rao stands as a symbol of luxury fashion and bespoke tailoring. Behind this prestigious label is Master Vinayak Rao, a visionary designer who inherited his father’s legacy, Master M N Rao, a renowned Master Tailor known for precision and artistry. Through his unmatched craftsmanship and distinctive design sensibility, Vinayak has transformed M.N. Rao Designer Studio into a global beacon of bespoke elegance and individuality.
Raised in a family with a rich legacy in the art of tailoring, Vinayak grew up closely observing his father’s exceptional craftsmanship. This early exposure ignited his own passion for the craft. While his father mastered traditional tailoring techniques, Vinayak aimed to modernize and elevate the art, seamlessly blending his father’s expertise with his own innovative ideas. With over 25 years of experience, Vinayak further refined his skills under the guidance of Professor Andrew Ramroop OBE, the founder of the renowned Savile Row Academy in London. Professor Ramroop, acknowledging Vinayak’s commitment to excellence, praised him by saying, “Some are good, some are talented, and some are outstanding. Vinayak is outstanding in his pursuit of learning and offering clients the best service.”
Determined to broaden his knowledge, Vinayak pursued advanced designer courses in Singapore, immersing himself in international tailoring techniques and fabric innovation. Armed with this global perspective, he returned to Mumbai, honouring his father’s legacy by establishing M.N. Rao—a bespoke tailoring brand that would soon become synonymous with sophistication.
At M.N. Rao, every garment reflects the wearer’s personality. Vinayak personally oversees every step of the bespoke process, ensuring a perfect fit, timeless design, and empowering the wearer with creations made from the finest materials.
As M.N. Rao grew, it became the go-to brand for Mumbai’s elite—businessmen, celebrities, and dignitaries trusted Vinayak’s artistry. Despite his success, he remains committed to his craft, mentoring young designers and ensuring the tradition of bespoke tailoring continues.
Today, M.N. Rao is a legacy of precision and artistry. Master Vinayak Rao continues to inspire the fashion world, proving that true luxury lies in creating garments that reflect the wearer’s essence.
Master Vinayak has built on the strong foundation set by his father, M. N. Rao, who had a notable connection with actor A. K. Hangal, famed for his role in Sholay. Hangal, before his film career, worked as a tailor. The M. N. Rao legacy continues, with Vinayak’s brother, Madhusudan Rao, managing the brand in Mumbai’s Kemps Corner, while Vinayak’s son, Akshay Rao, interns under him, aiming to elevate the family legacy.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
