The House of Rare Launches Its Largest Flagship Store in India with 'Milap' in Kolkata

Marking a significant milestone in its retail journey, The House of Rare, one of India’s leading contemporary fashion houses, has unveiled Milap — its grandest flagship store yet, spanning 10,500 sq. ft. on the iconic Shakespeare Sarani in central Kolkata.

Milap, meaning “union,” is more than a retail destination; it is a celebration of heritage and modernity, carefully designed to bring together craftsmanship, architecture, and fashion in a truly immersive experience.

Housed within a 126-year-old heritage building, classified as a protected site by the Government of India, Milap reflects the brand’s commitment to storytelling through space. The building’s original façade, staircases, window panes, and structural details have been meticulously restored, while the interiors are reimagined with contemporary minimalism, aligning with The House of Rare’s signature aesthetic.

“This isn’t just about launching a store. It’s about reviving a piece of history and giving it new life,” said Manish Poddar, Founder of The House of Rare. “Kolkata has shaped generations of thinkers and creators. Opening our largest store here, in a building with such legacy, feels deeply personal.”

Milap showcases all four verticals of the brand: Rare Rabbit, Rareism, Rare’Z by Rare Rabbit, and Rare Ones by Rare Rabbit, featuring their latest Autumn/Winter collections. Each segment is curated to reflect a distinct facet of the brand’s identity, offering visitors a seamless and elevated fashion journey under one roof.

The store is conceptualized as a cultural bridge — a space where past and present co-exist harmoniously. From the restored arches that filter natural light to thoughtful material choices and layout, every detail is intended to slow the pace and encourage connection.

“There’s something poetic about this space,” said Akshika Poddar, Co-Founder. “The elegance of the old structure resonates with Rareism’s philosophy — graceful, strong, and rooted in authenticity. Milap is our tribute to Kolkata’s soul.”

The creation of Milap was made possible through the collaboration of multiple partners including JSW, Slottwal, Forte Fixture, Zahid Interior, Aura Airtechnics (Samsung), Hybec, Simpolo, Classic Digital, Wave Rider, and Design O Craft, each contributing to the transformation of this landmark space.

Milap represents a bold shift in experiential retail — a space where commerce meets culture, and where fashion becomes a narrative of memory, place, and purpose. In an era of fast and fleeting, The House of Rare stands firm in its belief in the slow, intentional, and timeless.