Introduction:

In the heart of Lucknow, where the delicate art of Chikankari has been a cultural mainstay for generations, a remarkable transformation is taking place.

House of Chikankari, a venture initiated by Akriti Rawal and her mother, Poonam Rawal, has not only breathed new life into this traditional handicraft but has also created a thriving e-commerce platform that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity.

This post delves into the inspiring journey of House of Chikankari, starting with a modest investment of Rs. 3 lakhs in 2020 and achieving a commendable revenue of Rs. 20 crores by 2022.

Inception and Vision:

The genesis of House of Chikankari lies in a conversation between Akriti Rawal and her mother about the profound beauty of Chikankari.

Moved by the plight of skilled artisans during the pandemic, the duo envisioned creating a platform that not only celebrated the artistry of Chikankari but also provided sustainable employment to the struggling karigars.

With a modest investment of Rs. 3 lakhs, they embarked on a journey to create a brand that would redefine traditional craftsmanship for the digital age.

Initial Challenges and Triumphs:

Starting from the basement of their house with a team of three, the duo faced the typical challenges of launching an e-commerce venture.

However, their unwavering perseverance and commitment to preserving the essence of Chikankari paid off.

The brand gained momentum, especially during the festive seasons, establishing itself as a noteworthy player in the traditional craft e-commerce segment.

House of Chikankari’s unique selling proposition was its blend of organic Instagram presence, influencer marketing, and content creation, cultivating a community of over 270,000 followers in the first year.

Elevating Tradition through Technology:

House of Chikankari leveraged technology to bring the age-old craft of Chikankari to a wider audience.

The brand not only demonstrated the relevance of tradition in contemporary times but also bridged the gap between artisans and consumers.

The success of their e-commerce model showcases the potential for traditional crafts to thrive in the digital era.

Empowering Female Karigars:

Beyond its commercial success, House of Chikankari has made significant strides in empowering female artisans.

The brand employs over 5,000 female karigars, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and contribute to the rich legacy of Chikankari.

The focus on female artisans adds a unique dimension to House of Chikankari’s commitment to social impact.

Profitability and Recognition:

In just two years of operation, House of Chikankari achieved a revenue of Rs. 20 crores and marked a profit of Rs. 2 crores.

This financial success, combined with their commitment to empowering artisans, garnered attention and support.

House of Chikankari secured funding from Shark Tank, a testament to the brand’s innovative approach to preserving tradition while adapting to the demands of the contemporary market.

Conclusion:

House of Chikankari stands as a beacon of success, demonstrating that traditional crafts can flourish in the digital age when infused with innovation and authenticity.

Akriti Rawal and Poonam Rawal’s journey showcases the potential for e-commerce to be a transformative force, not just for businesses but for artisans and communities.

By weaving tradition into contemporary elegance, House of Chikankari has not only embraced the future but has also ensured the continuity of Chikankari’s timeless legacy.