CRAFTING STATES OF Happiness

For a decade and a half, JADE has been working with artisans from different states across the country. On its 15th anniversary, we speak with MONICA SHAH, one half to the label, who takes us through the Grassroot Artisans Project - a passion project that is her source of pride and joy.

- Ashwini Arun Kumar

JADE's headquarters is on the second floor of an industrial estate built on land where one of Mumbai's famous mills once stood. It's almost poetic then, that Monica Shah and Karishma Swali, sisters-in-law and co-founders of the label, choose this as their office. JADE, after all, has operated on the same principle: taking something that is redundant and re-building it in a way that works for contemporary consumers - like certain crafts. The office, except for its floor, is fully white. A complete contrast to the grey building in which it is ensconced. Natural light floods the open-plan layout that is strategically punctuated with work stations for JADE's various teams. "Firstly, my background comes into play," says Monica, explaining the apothecary-shop-meets-art museum aesthetic of the space. Before marrying into the family that founded and runs the Mumbai-based textile and embroidery house Chanakya Atelier, she studied interior design and worked in the furniture domain for seven years. "Secondly, I think that couture has become more about the experience. In the office, too, there's a certain feel that I want everyone who works here to realise - only then can you enjoy working." It comes across as a place where ideas are brought to life. We sit down with Monica in a roomy glass cubicle that oversees the shop floor to discuss one such project.