Shaivya Jaiswal, the visionary force behind Virmansha Designs, a dynamic individual on a mission to revolutionize the fashion industry’s approach to sustainability. Hailing from the bustling city of Lucknow, Shaivya’s journey from her roots to her remarkable venture is a testament to her unwavering passion for design, craftsmanship, and a profound commitment to our environment.
Her odyssey commenced with her pursuit of a design degree at NIFT Kolkata, where the seeds of her future endeavors were sown. Her education not only laid the groundwork for her future but also equipped her with the skills to envision a world where fashion and sustainability coexist harmoniously. Her journey mirrors her deep connection to her locality and her unshakable belief in the untapped potential of local artisans.
A Journey of Passion and Purpose
In 2011, during her final year at college, Virmansha began taking shape – a sustainable fashion brand with a mission to empower artisans and combat the textile waste crisis. Her inspiration to upcycle textile waste was born from a fervent desire to drive positive change in an industry that often contributes to the pollution in the landfills.
The brand name “Virmansha” itself carries profound significance, reflecting Shaivya’s profound connections: “Vir” for her father, “Man” for her mother, and “Sha” symbolizing herself. Together, they form a wish for a brave mission. In Hindi, “Vir” means “brave,” underscoring the audacity of her work. Virmansha is not just a brand; it’s a mission to eradicate textile waste pollution.
The brand’s motto, “To Create Upcycled, Eco-friendly Sustainable Daily utility products,” encapsulates the very heart of their ethos. Shaivya and her team are dedicated to upcycling textile waste, whether pre-consumer or post-consumer. They collect a diverse range of textiles, from old bed sheets to denim shirts, and craft their products based on the materials at hand.
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Launching Virmansha Designs’ came with its share of challenges. Skepticism from potential customers, concerns about the quality and hygiene of upcycled products, and unfamiliarity with upcycling presented early obstacles. Yet, her unwavering dedication allowed her to overcome these challenges. She gradually gained the trust of customers who not only embraced her products but also sought her expertise for their own upcycling projects.
Securing funds for an upcycling venture posed another significant challenge. Many initially struggled to grasp the concept of repurposing old textiles. Despite these hurdles, her steadfast commitment to sustainability has started to change people’s attitudes.
One of the defining features of Virmansha Designs’ is its steadfast commitment to eco-consciousness. The brand actively strives to divert textile waste from landfills, championing a circular economy. Their products are predominantly biodegradable, and they encourage customers to refurbish, buy back, or donate old garments, even offering discounts for these eco-friendly choices.
Empowering Local Women Artisans
Empowering local women artisans is at the core of Virmansha’s mission. Shaivya’s vision has always centered on this aspect. Her experiences during college, collaborating with the Ministry of Textiles to upskill artisans, made her realize the importance of empowering local talent.
Her training programs equipped women with essential stitching skills, stressing quality and efficiency. As a result, these artisans saw improvements in their livelihoods and earned respect within their communities. They began contributing textile waste to Virmansha’s products and even became advocates against textile waste. The transformative impact on these women and their communities is a testament to the potency of Shaivya’s mission.
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Virmansha Designs’ weaves traditional crafts into its upcycled products, infusing them with a unique and culturally rich aesthetic. From crochet and hand sewing for durability to patchwork using leftover textile pieces, traditional techniques subtly enrich their designs. The brand also endeavors to revive Katha embroidery, preserving an age-old craft tradition.
Her educational background significantly influences Virmansha’s product range. She prioritizes utility-based items that act as a great substitute for harmful textiles, such as cushion covers, table mats, Bags , Small accessories and wall pieces. These products not only enhance living spaces but also foster a deeper emotional connection with cherished garments. Virmansha also promotes responsible donations and offers sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. Their approach is grounded in a commitment to meaningful resource usage, circularity, and making a positive impact.
Recognitions and Awards
Though Virmansha Designs hasn’t received formal awards, it has received recognition for its innovative approach. The brand drew attention during its first exhibition in Kolkata, as featured in The Telegraph. It also garnered acknowledgment for its upcycling project at Maker Faire Hyderabad, which celebrated its innovative sustainability efforts. Additionally, Virmansha was selected for the Industry Disruptor Program by UN Women, recognizing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and circularity.
The Future of Virmansha – Mission & Vision
Virmansha’s long-term vision is centered on empowering women in remote areas of the country through upcycling. Shaivya aims to provide income opportunities, enrich lives, and offer innovative waste solutions. Her vision includes expanding the brand’s product categories, establishing stores, and educating people about the importance of upcycling. Virmansha Designs’ is dedicated to creating a greener and more sustainable future.
The growing concern for sustainability and eco-conscious living is a global trend. Shaivya envisions upcycling as an integral part of the future of sustainability. As people become more conscious of their consumption patterns and their impact on the planet, upcycling offers a valuable solution. Virmansha Designs’ is at the forefront of this movement, contributing to a greener world by upcycling post-consumer garments.
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She has witnessed numerous heartwarming moments that reflect the positive impact of Virmansha’s work on both artisans and the environment. From the generosity of those who donate their old clothes for repurposing to the transformation of artisans’ lives, these stories inspire Shaivya to continue her mission. Artisans’ living standards have improved, and they have become advocates for responsible practices, spreading the message against textile waste in their communities.
Harmony in Life and Work: Unveiling Her True Self
She acknowledges the importance of work-life balance in her journey. While she initially immersed herself entirely in her work, she later realized the need for a structured schedule to separate work and personal life. Despite the challenges, she strives to allocate time for self-care, taking occasional breaks to rejuvenate and stay inspired.
Her hobbies, including gardening, reading books, listening to music, and occasional painting, are essential to her personal growth and inspiration. These activities not only rejuvenate her but also influence her work. She finds energy and inspiration in her connection with nature, which is reflected in her approach to her brand and her commitment to sustainability.
Shaivya’s entrepreneurial journey has been influenced by the works of authors like Sudha Murthy and Ruskin Bond. These authors have shaped her perspective on life and work, making her appreciate life’s little joys. She lives by the principle of giving her best in everything she does, without worrying about the immediate outcome. Her belief in karma and the idea that doing the right thing will bring the right results drives her forward.
Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Navigating Sustainability in Daily Life
Shaivya’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs passionate about sustainability is clear: passion alone is not enough. Have a plan, even if it’s not perfect, and be prepared for challenges. Entrepreneurship can be tough, but self-doubt and obstacles are part of the journey. Be honest, let your work shine, and the rewards will follow.
To those who wish to make more sustainable choices in their daily lives, she advocates for small, gradual steps. Start with intent and make changes that align with your comfort zone. Carry your own bag or container, source local food, and avoid single-use plastics. Every small step count, and these choices can have a significant impact over time.
Shaivya Jaiswal’s journey as the founder of Virmansha Designs is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a mission for sustainability.
Her commitment to empowering artisans and reducing textile waste pollution through upcycling is an inspiring example of how one person can make a positive impact on the environment and the lives of those around them.
As sustainability becomes an increasingly vital concern worldwide, Shaivya and Virmansha Designs are leading the way in redefining the future of sustainable fashion. Their vision and dedication offer hope and inspiration for a greener, more conscious world.
