HIMROO
My Journey with Himroo
My journey with Himroo began with a deep-rooted love for Indian handlooms. As a doctor and designer, I have always been drawn to natural, breathable textiles and the generations of knowledge held within traditional craft. In 2017, I curated Saadgi, a handloom showcase built around a simple philosophy: simple is beautiful. It was here that I had the privilege of meeting Suraiya Apa, whose invitation to visit her Himroo unit would change the course of my journey.
Discovering Himroo
The first time I encountered Himroo closely, I was captivated. With its roots in the Deccan and influences from Persian textile traditions, Himroo was once associated with royalty — celebrated for its intricate weaving, richness and extraordinary craftsmanship. But what stayed with me most was not simply its beauty. It was the thought that such a remarkable tradition was slowly fading from everyday life. I wanted to help carry it forward.
From Reverence to Revival
An opportunity to establish a Himroo weaving unit near Charminar became the beginning of that commitment.
With the invaluable support of Mr. Venu Gopal and, later, the mentorship of Qureshi Master, a master weaver from Aurangabad, we began learning, refining and preserving the traditional technique.
What began with a few looms in 2017 gradually became something far more meaningful — a living space for craft, knowledge and continuity.
Keeping the Craft Alive
For me, revival has never been about fabric alone. It is about preserving the hands and knowledge behind it.
Over the years, we have trained nearly 20-25 young women from neighbouring villages, many beginning with no prior weaving experience. Today, several have become skilled Himroo weavers in their own right.
Himroo is a patient craft. Only a few inches may be woven in a day, depending on its intricacy.
That slowness is not a limitation. It is the measure of its craftsmanship.
Heritage, Reimagined
Himroo by Mamatha Tulluri is our endeavour to preserve this extraordinary heritage without leaving it in the past.
We envision Himroo as a living tradition, one that retains the soul of its history while finding new expression in contemporary wardrobes.
Every piece carries a story of heritage, human hands and time.
Because revival is not about recreating yesterday. It is about carrying its finest traditions forward.
Shailaja Ramaiyer, Director of Handlooms & Textiles, on the Himroo Project
Project Himroo