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RUHANIBYSHALINI
Driven by her love for preserving the heritage of Varanasi and inspired by the vibrant energy of the city Shalini embarked on a journey to reconnect with her passion for hand loom weaving . Shalini spread the work and spread the unforgettable intricate hand woven fabrics in Bangkok, Singapore and Malaysia during her stay of 12 years in the region followed by 7 years of unforgettable stay in worlds most beautiful country Turkey, Istanbul. Ruhani by Shalini has been a beacon of tradition and elegance for over 21 years.
With each piece meticulously woven by skilled artisans Ruhani by Shalini represents à labour of love and a commitment to preserve heritage for generations to come. From Indowestern dresses, sacrées,to duppattas/shawls to home furnishings every creation tells a story of slow fashion filled with elegance and it’s timeless beauty. Join us on this enchanting journey through the lanes of Varanasi where every thread is a restatement of our cherished past and a beacon of hope for the future. Experience the essence of Ruhani, where tradition meets innovation,and where the soul of India’s cultural capital comes alive in every exquisite creation.
Driven by her love for preserving the heritage of Varanasi and inspired by the vibrant energy of the city Shalini embarked on a journey to reconnect with her passion for hand loom weaving . Shalini spread the work and spread the unforgettable intricate hand woven fabrics in Bangkok, Singapore and Malaysia during her stay of 12 years in the region followed by 7 years of unforgettable stay in worlds most beautiful country Turkey, Istanbul. Ruhani by Shalini has been a beacon of tradition and elegance for over 21 years.
With each piece meticulously woven by skilled artisans Ruhani by Shalini represents à labour of love and a commitment to preserve heritage for generations to come. From Indowestern dresses, sacrées,to duppattas/shawls to home furnishings every creation tells a story of slow fashion filled with elegance and it’s timeless beauty. Join us on this enchanting journey through the lanes of Varanasi where every thread is a restatement of our cherished past and a beacon of hope for the future . Experience the essence of Ruhani , where tradition meets innovation,and where the soul of India’s cultural capital comes alive in every exquisite creation.
A Journey Through Heritage and Handlooms
Hailing from one of the oldest cities—Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi—renowned for its educational institutes and rich heritage, I completed my master's in physics. Despite my academic background and coming from a family of scientists, I was always captivated by the intricate motifs on silk fabrics and the exquisite craftsmanship of my city’s master artisans. My true calling was always with heritage looms and the timeless beauty they create.
When I moved to Bangkok in 2003, my passion found new direction. The admiration I received from locals and friends for my fashion sense, my embrace of slow fashion, and the soft, elegant fabrics I wore encouraged me further. I began commissioning weaving tailored to Bangkok’s warm climate, focusing on light and breathable fabrics such as moonga silk, chiffon, cotton, and linen, adorned with beautifully handcrafted motifs and patterns. My contemporary designs were well-received by both the local and expat communities, leading to exhibitions that showcased Varanasi's slow and timeless fashion to Singapore’s expat crowd.
From Local Craft to International Recognition
When I moved to Turkey, my passion expanded beyond fashion into crafting shamals, home furnishings, and wall art—each piece a testament to the skill of Varanasi’s artisans. I had the privilege of presenting my work at prestigious events, including the International Women’s of Istanbul Winter Fair and the Indian Embassy’s Bollywood-themed show at India House in Ankara. My journey was even immortalized in a book by Palestinian author Nancy Habbas, who highlighted my efforts in preserving culture and heritage abroad.
In 2023, my participation at the Italian Consulate Club garnered significant appreciation for the timeless beauty of Indian weaving. Additionally, the Zorlu Centre Bollywood Bazaar in Istanbul provided another boost to my brand, Ruhani by Shalini. A moment of pride came when the Indian Consulate General visited my exhibition, expressing admiration for seeing Indian handlooms embraced by the Turkish community.
Bringing Indian Handloom to the Emirates
In May 2024, I moved to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) in the United Arab Emirates, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The rich cultural heritage of the Emirates proved to be a perfect home for my heritage loom creations. The appreciation from both locals and expats further strengthened my resolve to continue showcasing the elegance of Indian handlooms.
Ruhani by Shalini continues to celebrate the legacy of Indian craftsmanship, honoring tradition while blending contemporary design. The brand bridges cultures, showcasing the artistry of skilled weavers and promoting the timeless beauty of heritage looms globally. Each piece reflects the essence of ancient techniques, preserving India’s rich textile history. With a focus on sustainability and artisan empowerment, Ruhani keeps these crafts alive, connecting heritage with modern fashion worldwide.
