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Arushi Khanna
LoomKatha
Professional Background
Arushi Khanna is a dynamic entrepreneur, weaving expert, and champion for traditional textiles. She is the founder of LoomKatha, an organization dedicated to reviving the ancient art of Himroo weaving, a craft infused with the rich traditions of both Persian and Indian cultural heritage. Originating in the 14th century, Himroo is facing challenges in the modern era, but through Arushi's innovative approaches and tireless advocacy, she aims to breathe new life into this beautiful craft.
With over nine years of experience focusing on the revival of indigenous textile traditions, Arushi's career is marked by significant contributions to the handicraft sector. From 2012 to 2014, she worked at the All India Artisans and Craftworkers Welfare Association (AIACA), where she was instrumental in leading the Enterprise Support Program. This initiative provided crucial marketing and financial backing to small rural weaving enterprises, enhancing their sustainability and ensuring the continuity of their craft.
Arushi's expertise and commitment to traditional weaving were globally recognized in 2016 when her revival of the Mubarakpur handloom technique was honored as a UNESCO case study. Her efforts not only highlight the significance of traditional crafts but also illustrate her skill in merging heritage with contemporary market demands. Furthermore, Arushi is a self-taught natural dyer, and her product innovations have gained a reputation through collaborations with renowned brands such as Dosa and Eileen Fisher.
Beyond her work in crafting, Arushi has made her mark in academia as a visiting faculty member at institutions like the STF in Zurich and Ashoka University in Delhi, where she shares her passion for textiles and entrepreneurship with aspiring students. Her work has earned her the prestigious title of Acumen Fellow, culminating in winning the 2017 Acumen Prize for Emerging Young Leadership. In recognition of her entrepreneurial spirit, she received the Foundation Chanel Prize for outstanding woman entrepreneur at the WE Deliver Vancouver in 2019.
Today, Arushi continues her mission of craft-based livelihood generation primarily through LoomKatha, fostering social entrepreneurship within the textile industry and empowering local artisans.
Education and Achievements
Arushi Khanna's educational journey has laid a solid foundation for her impactful career in fashion and textile management. She completed her schooling at the Jamnabai Narsee School before embarking on a path in the fashion industry. Arushi pursued her studies at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, where she attained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from St. Xavier's College. She further deepened her expertise by completing her Masters in Fashion Management, specializing in fashion marketing and retail at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Mumbai.
The combination of her education in economics and fashion management has equipped Arushi with the unique skills necessary for navigating the intersection of craftsmanship, business, and social impact. Her professional qualifications are complemented by a robust portfolio of work that includes influential positions in various organizations within the textile and crafts sectors.
Throughout her career, Arushi has taken on a series of significant roles, including serving as a consultant in handicraft product sourcing, new product development, and marketing for prestigious brands and organizations such as curocarte.com, Adiv Pure Nature Pvt Ltd, and Craftsvilla.com. She played pivotal roles as a Senior Consultant for projects like the Mubarakpur Weaver Livelihood Project at AIACA, underlining her commitment to uplifting artisans.
Achievements
Arushi Khanna's journey is embellished with numerous accolades and commendations that underscore her dedication to the textile industry and social entrepreneurship. Notably, the UNESCO recognition of her work in the Mubarakpur handloom project reflects her expertise and innovative approach to traditional weaving, setting her apart as a leader in the field.
Her credentials as an Acumen Fellow and the recipient of the global Acumen Prize for Emerging Young Leadership in 2017 highlight her impactful leadership and visionary work in the domain of social change through craft. Moreover, winning the Foundation Chanel Prize for outstanding woman entrepreneur at the WE Deliver Vancouver in 2019 reinforces her position as a trailblazer in promoting women's craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.
Arushi is not only a practitioner of her craft but also a mentor, contributing to the development of future generations of artisans. Her multifaceted expertise makes her a vital resource in discussions about sustainable fashion and the importance of preserving traditional crafts in an increasingly commercialized world. Through her ongoing initiatives at LoomKatha, she continues to inspire others to appreciate and invest in the value of handmade textiles, ensuring that ancient skills and techniques flourish in contemporary markets.
