Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophies, rooted in the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (civil disobedience), not only brought about political change but also gave birth to the profound concept of sustainability. His emphasis on ‘Sarvodya’ and ‘Swadeshi,’ which prioritise harmonious coexistence with nature and responsible living, laid the foundation for a sustainable way of life. The concept of Sarvodaya underscores the notion that we are merely custodians of our environment and have a responsibility to pass it on to the next generation in good condition.
Gandhi was an activist who believed in social change and consciously chose to demonstrate his philosophies through his lifestyle choices and clothing. His sartorial journey, particularly Khadi, played a rather important role in establishing his belief in environmental sustainability, and its relevance in today’s world is quite evident on a surface level. Today, we have a cohort of brands committed to the movement that focuses not on the speed of making and consuming things; it is mindful luxury that focuses on authentic and environmentally friendly designs.
To honour the great freedom fighter and social activist on his birth anniversary, we have rounded up some brands that are actively taking up the responsibility to uphold the virtues of Mahatma Gandhi through their sustainable approach.
Fashion Brands
A Big Indian Story
A PETA-approved lifestyle brand leads the way with an innovative range of bags, wallets, and footwear made from eco-friendly vegan materials like Piñatex, sourced from recycled pineapple leaves. They also explore sustainable textiles such as cactus leather, apple skin leather, hemp, and texon, while collaborating with local artisans to give a fresh twist to their accessories.
B Label
Based in Mumbai, this company is India’s pioneer in hemp-based clothing and lifestyle products, with a primary focus on fashion and accessories. The brand harnesses the unique qualities of hemp, which surpass other fabrics in numerous aspects. Hemp is exceptionally robust among natural textiles, hypoallergenic, adept at moisture absorption, fire-resistant, and an effective insulator, all while remaining one of the rare fabrics that allow for breathability.
Ka-Sha
Ka-Sha is an Indian sustainable fashion brand renowned for its fusion of traditional Indian textiles and handicraft techniques. The brand curates garments, accessories, and home decor collections. Their unique selling proposition is the fact that they have adopted complete zero-waste design techniques, where the brand strives to utilise every bit of fabric to reduce waste.
Beauty Brands
The Tribe Concept
The Tribe Concepts has an all-natural range of Ayurveda-inspired beauty products thoughtfully tailored to address the specific needs of Indian skin. The brand uses ingredients sourced from the most fertile soils in pollution-free environmental zones and also uses some of the most organic plant and root extracts. The product line-up includes natural, untainted skin and hair care, which is mostly in the form of powder or cold-pressed oil.
Ruby’s Organic
Ruby’s Organics takes pride in its sustainable makeup line, offering a selection of clean, straightforward, and purpose-driven products. They craft innovative makeup from plant and mineral-based ingredients infused with skin-friendly bioactives. Their formulations seamlessly bridge the gap between makeup and skincare, prioritising both skin health and environmental responsibility. With ingredients that steer clear of harmful toxins, their multitasking makeup not only enhances but also safeguards, nourishes, and pampers your skin.
Pahadi Local
Pahadi Local brings Himalayan treasures to your home. Their eco-conscious beauty products, sourced locally and minimally processed, preserve the mountains’ healing essence without any additives. The brand ensures a minimal carbon footprint from sourcing to extraction. The beauty products are thoughtfully sourced from the local Pahadi community and delivered in their purest form.
Home Decor and Interiors
Oorjaa
A sustainable lighting design studio in Bengaluru crafts eco-friendly lighting pieces using materials like bamboo fibre, cork, and artisanal paper. Their designs merge with subtlety in any space. The brand offers a range of lamps and decor items, all handcrafted in an energy-efficient green building.
Rihaa
Rihaa is a sustainable home decor brand that actively contributes to creating sustainable livelihoods in the rural sector and provides patronage to the local artisan communities. The brand offers everything from tableware, planters, ceramics, bath linens, dhurries, basketry, and more.
Cyahi
Cyahi offers an eclectic range of contemporary products, including wall hangings, handwoven baskets, organisers, and coffee table trays. Sustainability lies at the heart of Cyahi’s mission, as they custom-make each item, reducing waste despite potentially longer waiting times.
