ANITA DONGRE THE RENEGADE MATRIARCH OF INDIAN FASHION

A powerful advocate for Indian craftsmanship, women's empowerment and sustainable fashion, Dongre's career is a story of profound inspiration.

- BY SALONI DHRUV AND OJAS KOLVANKAR PHOTOGRAPHS BY SARANG GUPTA STYLED BY OJAS KOLVANKAR

In the year 1995, armed with just two sewing machines, Anita Dongre had a singular vision: to design garments for the modern, independent Indian woman. Over the next three decades, this very vision blossomed into a mammoth empire—the House of Anita Dongre, a universe of five distinct labels: the free-spirited boho of Global Desi; the sustainable sophistication of Grassroot; the effortless everyday elegance of AND; the couture of her eponymous flagship line; and the handcrafted treasures of Pinkcity. With over 270 stores worldwide, Dongre recently bought back nearly 40 per cent of her brand from equity firm General Atlantic, asserting full family ownership and a steadfast commitment to authenticity, craft and purpose.

Company of Women