About
THE STORY
Photographed in India, Made in USA
In the spring of 2011, photographer Markku Lahdesmaki had the chance to spend few days in Mumbai, India. He found himself fascinated by the Mumbai taxis and their drivers. The taxis, their charm, and the whole experience inspired what would become Mumbai Taxi Co.
From the photo series came the inspiration of the original Mumbai Taxi Co. t-shirts, using three photographic designs from the series. Naturally, a photo book ensued. From that point it was designer Anne Kauranen who playfully expanded the brand. The prominent black and yellow colors were the obvious palette, and combined with a keen sense of fashion, the hats and accessories were born. The rest is history.
“I was traveling around the city with a translator and my friend Dinesh Dubei hopping from one taxi to the next. We were looking for interesting locations and then I created the scene with a nearby taxi, the driver and locals.”
THE TAXI
FIAT 1100 Delight
The black and yellow Mumbai taxi car was originally called the Fiat 1100 Delight. In1965, its name was changed to Premier President and it became the Premier Padmini in 1974, named after the princess of the town of Chittor in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It became the car of choice for taxi drivers in Mumbai because it was economical, strong, had more luggage space, and could be easily repaired at small roadside mechanic shops.
“Our Taxi bandanas are my favorite products at the moment. I especially like the soft fabric of the black ‘deluxe’ option. The design is two sided and the best part – it may also be used as a face covering, which we never leave home without.”
The Team
Anne Kauranen
Designer
Anne Kauranen is the visionary behind many of the brand’s wearable items and the printed book design. Anne is an awarded graphic designer who has worked in the advertising world in London and Finland.
Markku Lahdesmaki
Photographer
Markku Lahdesmaki is internationally awarded photographer, who has created iconic images for numerous advertising campaigns and his personal projects.
