MEET THE FOUNDERS
Aakriti Rawal
A graduate from King’s College London and Imperial College London, Aakriti Rawal always felt drawn to do something more meaningful. During the pandemic in 2020, a conversation with her mother about an artisan struggling to make ends meet left a lasting impression on her. This conversation introduced her to Chikankari, a delicate embroidery craft from Lucknow that held a deep cultural legacy but was marred by challenges such as low wages, lack of recognition, and disorganized supply chains.
Moved by the plight of artisans and inspired by the beauty of the craft, Aakriti decided to take a leap into an industry she had no prior experience in. The road was filled with challenges, but her passion for empowering artisans and preserving their heritage gave her the courage to keep going. For Aakriti, it’s never been just about selling a product—it’s about celebrating the stories behind them and building a family of artisans, one craft at a time
Poonam Rawal
Poonam Rawal, the co-founder of House of Chikankari, has always had a deep passion for textiles and ethnic wear. With years of experience as a textile connoisseur, Poonam embarked on her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 48. In 2020, alongside her daughter Aakriti, she co-founded House of Chikankari to revive and preserve the art of Chikankari—a delicate embroidery craft from Lucknow that had faced many challenges, including underpaid artisans and lack of recognition.
Poonam's vision for the brand went beyond just selling beautiful products; it was about empowering artisans, preserving a rich cultural heritage, and bringing Chikankari to a global audience. Her extensive knowledge of textiles and her commitment to craftsmanship have driven the brand’s focus on quality, sustainability, and artisan welfare. Through House of Chikankari, Poonam has dedicated herself to transforming the lives of artisans and sharing the story of Chikankari with the world.
The Mother Daughter Duo
Together, Poonam and Aakriti Rawal have built House of Chikankari, a brand rooted in heritage and driven by purpose. Poonam’s deep love for textiles and Aakriti’s marketing expertise have come together to transform their shared vision into a thriving venture that uplifts artisans and celebrates traditional craftsmanship. While Poonam is the heart of the brand, Aakriti brings the strategic mind. Their journey reflects passion, perseverance, and the powerful synergy of family working toward a common goal.
