Dr. Niharika Singh’s story isn’t just about launching a brand; it’s about reshaping how we view fashion and its impact on our world. As the founder of SwarnSutram, a sustainable clothing label based in Dehradun, she has taken her experiences—both personal and professional—and turned them into a movement that blends tradition, responsibility, and innovation.
With a background in textile design from NIFT Kolkata, Niharika was always drawn to the art and science of fabrics. She spent her formative years studying the intricacies of Indian textiles and crafts, developing a deep respect for their cultural significance. However, her first brush with the reality of the fashion industry came in Surat, where she worked in the chemical-heavy textile sector. There, she saw firsthand the damage caused by unsustainable practices—not just to the environment but to the human body. The exposure took a toll on her health, forcing her to leave Surat and reconsider her career path.
For many, this could have been the end of the road. For Niharika, it was a new beginning. The unpleasant experience in Surat sparked an idea in her mind and this led to the emergence of her clothing brand, SwarnSutram.
Niharika’s vision for SwarnSutram was crystal clear right from the start. It wasn’t going to be about mass production or fleeting trends. Instead, it would focus on creating timeless pieces that prioritized the environment, supported artisans, and cared for the people who wore them.
Niharika’s journey into sustainability became deeply personal when her young daughter developed a severe allergic reaction to a chemically treated garment. Seeing her child suffer ignited a fire within her. “That was the final trigger for me,” she recalls. “It wasn’t just about making a choice anymore; it became my responsibility to do better.”
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Launching SwarnSutram in 2021 was her way of transforming that responsibility into action. The brand’s foundation rests on the 3 pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic, and social. These principles are not just buzzwords for Niharika but an outline for every decision the company makes. Environmentally, SwarnSutram uses organic dyes and natural fibers, ensuring that the production process leaves a minimal footprint. Economically, it collaborates with artisans, giving them fair pay and the recognition they deserve. Socially, it ensures ethical workplace practices and champions the welfare of its workers.
Her collaborations have been a cornerstone of SwarnSutram’s growth. Partnering with artists like Avdesh Kumar, a Jaipur-based expert in block printing and natural dyeing, she has found ways to incorporate traditional techniques into contemporary designs. For Niharika, these relationships aren’t just business deals; they’re about preserving a craft and giving it a platform to thrive in modern markets.
But running a sustainable brand comes with its challenges. Niharika is vocal about the widespread practice of “greenwashing,” where companies falsely advertise themselves as being sustainably sound without actually following through on their promises. “Sustainability isn’t a marketing strategy; it’s a responsibility,” she says. This belief has shaped SwarnSutram’s approach, ensuring that every product lives up to its promise of being genuinely eco-friendly.
The brand has achieved significant milestones in a relatively short period. SwarnSutram has become a symbol of authenticity, standing out in an industry that often prioritizes profit over principles. For Niharika, though, the most rewarding moments come from seeing her vision resonate with people. Whether it’s a mother choosing a toxin-free outfit for her baby or an artisan receiving praise for his craftsmanship, these stories remind her of her own journey and how and why she started it all.
Even with its success, Niharika isn’t one to rest on her laurels. Plans are underway to expand the reach of SwarnSutram, both in India and internationally. But growth, for Niharika, isn’t just about numbers; it’s about staying true to the brand’s core values. She dreams of launching exclusive collections that highlight India’s diverse textile traditions and hosting workshops to educate people on the importance of sustainability in fashion.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Niharika offers simple yet powerful advice: “Don’t compromise on your values. The journey won’t always be easy, but staying authentic will take you further than you can imagine.” She believes that businesses today have the power to create meaningful change and hence encourages others to align their work with a purpose.
As the world grapples with issues of climate change and overconsumption, Niharika’s message feels especially well-timed. “Fashion isn’t just about what we wear; it’s about who we are,” she says. “When we choose sustainability, we’re choosing to protect ourselves, our planet, and the generations to come.”
SwarnSutram is more than a clothing brand—it’s a statement. A statement that fashion can be beautiful without being wasteful, and that progress doesn’t have to come at the cost of our planet. Through her work, Dr. Niharika Singh is weaving not just garments but a legacy of care, responsibility, and hope.
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