1. I'm obsessed with textiles, but not the fast-fashion kind. I'm drawn to hand-crafted textiles and natural fibers. They just feel better: Luxurious and authentic. 

2. I call Premaasi Textiles a "socio-cultural enterprise". It's a social enterprise with the added aim of preserving the cultural integrity and heritage of the products I source. Premaasi's products are created by hand with generations (and centuries!)  of traditional skills. 

3. In 2003, I held an exhibition called "100 weaves of India" with 3 friends. No, there aren't really a 100 weaves (most likely more!). The diversity of the materials and textile techniques and the riot of color was jaw-dropping. People loved it. That's when my obsession went into high gear.  

4. Working with and hanging out with artisans, hearing their stories, sharing tea and buttermilk with them in their homes is my happy place. 

5. I'm on my "4th rodeo" or "I've re-invented myself 4 times". You pick. I worked in Telecoms R&D, Management Consulting and Non-profit Management before I gave in to my obsession and long-time dream. I'm finally doing what I love - the 4th time over. 

6. I was born and raised in India, and moved to the U.S. in 1981 for graduate school (in Math, can you believe it? I can't). 

7.  My favorite movie of all time is The Sound of Music.  I will perform "So long, Farewell" impromptu and with the slightest encouragement / provocation (It's true, try me... there's only one problem - I can't sing). 

8. I love henna designs on my hands (the main reason I go to Indian weddings).

9. I grew up on a steady diet of Bollywood movies!

10. Did I mention that I don't like fast fashion? I don't. Not at all. In fact, since starting Premaasi I've become more conscious about the clothing and accessory choices I make (a lot less fast fashion). 

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Read about why I do what I do.