The Parvai Story

Most great ventures start with a vision. A desire to create change and impact, and ‘Parvai’ is no less. An initiative that came out of a shared love of all things hand crafted, The Parvai Shop stands as a testament to what can be achieved with initiative and intention.

We don’t usually admit how little we consider ‘intent’ when buying things. Yet, material things hold sentimental value for us as human beings. In recent years, there has been an increased conversation about fast-fashion, material histories, and a growing desire for consumer intentionality in purchases. 

The Ambassadors of Heritage and Crafts (AHC) Foundation observed an increasing gap in the relationship between customers and artisans, leading to a decline in understanding craftsmanship and innovation in textiles. They decided it was time to create a space for more thoughtful conversations about the craft industry of India and to educate consumers to be more purposeful buyers.

The Parvai Shop showcases unique one-of-a-kind designs that are inspired by nature, history and the rich heritage that is embedded in the landscape of India. Each sari that is designed and sold on the online store, comes out of meaningful dialogue between the AHC members, customers and artisans. Suffices to say, that each conversation is part of the generative process for the weaver, in addition to keeping the customer involved in the purchase and production of a treasured heirloom piece.

In a world run by machines and mechanization, the simple pleasures of a handwoven sari or sculpted pottery becomes that which belongs to an elite few. Parvai, changes all of that. It stands to make heirloom products luxurious and accessible. And even more, it aims to make the conversation about craft education and heritage revival accessible to everyone. The Parvai Shop is part of a larger initiative by the AHC foundation to increase awareness about the handloom and handicraft industries of India. Their vision is to be able to help sustain these creative and traditional modes of craft production in rural parts of India through training initiatives and investing into the lives of villages.

When browsing the store and saris in the collection, you can stay assured of all the information about the product you will purchase. From who wove it to how long it stayed on the loom, you will know everything to take pride in an heirloom piece made with great precision, care and value.

There is much work to be done to make conversations about craft and textiles a part of our new vernacular. But even as a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step, this is only the beginning.