In the heart of India’s rich textile heritage, Kalakatha was born—a brand that celebrates the timeless artistry of handloom and the cultural narratives woven into every thread. Founded by husband-wife duo Deepshikha and Atharva Chandorkar, Kalakatha is more than just a saree brand; it is a movement to revive, sustain, and showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of India’s weavers to the world.
From Travel to Textiles: The Genesis of Kalakatha
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The journey of Kalakatha began in the bustling lanes of Kolkata and the interiors of West Bengal, where Deepshikha and Atharva found themselves immersed in the region’s vibrant handloom culture. While Deepshikha, a Bengali by heritage, had always been deeply connected to these weaves, Atharva saw them with fresh eyes—recognizing the untapped potential of the artisans who painstakingly craft these fabrics. “The weavers had extraordinary skills, yet they struggled to make a sustainable living. That’s when we realized we had to do something—not just as entrepreneurs, but as artists who understand the essence of handmade art,” says Atharva. With a shared vision of bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, they launched Kalakatha, a name that symbolizes the beautiful interplay of art (“Kala”) and storytelling (“Katha”)—a tribute to the Indian heritage they seek to preserve.
A Saree, A Story, A Legacy
For Deepshikha, sarees are not just attire but an integral part of her identity. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer, she was first introduced to the elegance of sarees at the age of six. From borrowing her mother’s drapes to wearing them on stage and now incorporating them into her everyday life as a new mom, her relationship with sarees has evolved but never faded. “People often say sarees are difficult to wear, but I want to break that stigma. They are the most versatile, comfortable, and empowering garments that have stood the test of time. If you want to stand out today, drape your culture with pride and watch the magic unfold,” she says.
Beyond Fashion: A Revival of Art and Artisans
Kalakatha is not just about sarees; it’s about the people behind them—the skilled weavers, dyers, and artisans whose hands bring these fabrics to life. Each piece is handpicked and ethically sourced, ensuring that traditional weaving clusters across West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and beyond are supported and celebrated. The brand aims to create a space where art meets advocacy, where handcrafted weaves are not just worn but cherished as heirlooms. “We believe slowly, in owning a piece of history rather than just an outfit. Each saree carries a legacy, a story waiting to be told,” says Atharva.
Kalakatha: Draping the Future in Tradition
Today, Kalakatha stands as a testament to the enduring power of Indian craftsmanship. It’s a brand that urges women to embrace their roots, redefine elegance on their terms, and confidently wear culture. With a mission to make handwoven textiles accessible, wearable, and celebrated, Deepshikha and Atharva continue their journey—one weave, one story, and one saree at a time. Kalakatha is not just a brand; it is a movement. A movement to drape history, to sustain artistry, and to empower generations—one thread at a time.
Visit their website – https://www.kalakatha.co.in/
