In Reflection - By Madeleine Beech

After five weeks of immersive travel across India, we find ourselves with full hearts and minds, deeply inspired and grateful for the people and communities we've encountered.

Our journey took us from the serene valleys of Sittilingi to the vibrant streets of Kochi, from the intricate weaving studios of Kutch to the Himalayan wool workshops. We visited, learned, and collaborated with artisans, each contributing to the vast tapestry of India’s rich textile heritage.

What follows is a reflection on the transformative experiences we shared, the stories we discovered, and the connections we forged.

Our journey began with excitement and anticipation—boarding a flight to India, ready to reconnect with the incredible artisanal communities we've worked alongside for years.

Our mission was to learn from these communities, explore ancient textile techniques, and find new ways to support the preservation and growth of their crafts.

The road ahead promised new opportunities to collaborate, create, and celebrate the beauty of handmade textiles.

Upon arriving in Sittilingi Valley, we were welcomed by the warmth and kindness of the Porgai Artisans community. This deep-rooted collective of women, led by elders Gammi and Neela, has been dedicated to reviving the almost-lost Lambadi Embroidery techniques. These women’s intricate handiwork speaks volumes about their resilience and vision for the future. Through conversations, we discovered their desire for their textile art to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

Their voices are integral to our work at The ANJELMS Project, and we’re proud to showcase their creations globally, ensuring their craft receives the recognition it deserves.

Bengaluru marked a new chapter in our journey, where we explored the world of Indian pastoralism and the deep connection between people and the land.

At the Living Lightly exhibition, we were reminded of how essential the sustainable practice of pastoralism is to eco-systems, and how wool and natural fibres are at the heart of beautiful, enduring fashion.

We were also touched by the generosity and hospitality of our dear friends Anshu, Jason, and Lila, whose knowledge and creativity continue to inspire us. Our time spent with Anshu opened doors to new collaborations, as we delved into the work of fibre artists and many other incredible creators.

Each destination brought its own set of unforgettable experiences.

In Kochi, we wandered through the streets of history with Dr. Lalitha Regi, discovering the city’s cultural landmarks and hidden gems. From the ancient synagogues to the royal Hill Palace, each moment was steeped in centuries of tradition. We learned not only about the heritage of Kochi but about the personal stories of our guides, particularly Dr. Lalitha, whose humility and dedication to her community continue to inspire us.

The diverse textile crafts we encountered were a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of India’s artisans.

From the intricate block prints of Ajrakh in Kutch with Sufiyan Khatri to the sophisticated Rabari embroidery of Geeta Bhavesh Rabari, we saw firsthand how tradition is preserved while being transformed by innovation.

Our collaboration with artisans like Geeta, Damabhai Marwada, and Lakshmi Puwar deepened our understanding of the intersection between cultural heritage and contemporary design.

These artisans have not only kept ancient crafts alive but have also redefined them, bringing a fresh perspective to the world of fashion.

The journey culminated in the Himalayan region with the Kullvi Whims community, where we witnessed the stunning wool craftsmanship of the women who have dedicated their lives to preserving this nomadic tradition.

The community’s interconnectedness, from the herders who provide the wool to the artisans who weave and spin it, was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
As we participated in their daily life—whether it was making woolen yarn on a traditional takli or sharing a joyous snowball fight with Brighu & Nisha—we felt the profound bond that unites the Kullu people with their craft.

These women, strong, resilient, and visionary, left an indelible mark on our hearts.

A highlight of our journey was our visit to Pushkar, where we revisited a project close to our hearts—The Stitching Project we’ve worked with for the past 13 years.

This community of artisans, whose work has been a cornerstone of The AnjelMs Project, continues to amaze us with their artistry and dedication. We’ve watched this collaboration grow and evolve, and it has been inspiring to see how their craft has blossomed over the years.

Their creations remain an integral part of our collections, and their stories are woven into every piece we create together. It is a partnership that has stood the test of time, and we are grateful for the deep trust and connection we share.

As we reflect on the experiences of the past five weeks, we are reminded of the power of community, the importance of craftsmanship, and the lasting impact of ethical, sustainable practices. These artisans, women, and communities have shown us that fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about stories, legacies, and preserving culture for future generations. Each piece we create together is a tribute to the creativity, resilience, and vision of the women we’ve met along the way.

On this journey, we were not just observers; we were collaborators, friends, and witnesses to the power of craft to change lives.

As we continue our work with these communities, we commit to amplifying their voices, supporting their dreams, and celebrating the beauty of handmade textiles. These women are not just artisans—they are changemakers, and we are honored to stand beside them.

We return from this trip with a renewed sense of purpose, inspiration, and gratitude. The textiles we create together are not just products—they are stories, expressions of identity, and beacons of cultural preservation. We look forward to continuing this journey of discovery, learning, and collaboration, and we invite you to join us in celebrating the artisans who make it all possible.

Thank you to every artisan, community, and friend who welcomed us into their homes, shared their knowledge, and inspired us with their resilience. We are forever changed by this experience, and we can’t wait to continue crafting a future together.