Fabindia, described as India’s iconic lifestyle brand, renowned the world over for its contemporary range of craft based products, is opening its first exclusive store in Qatar today.
The Fabindia store, in The Center Shopping Area behind Radisson Blu Hotel, will be inaugurated by Indian Embassy deputy chief of mission Raj Kumar Singh. The store launch will be presided by Golden Star Group of companies’ chairman Mohamed A al-Khater.
The Fabindia range combines the elegance and comfort of a variety of natural materials such as cotton and silk, with traditional craft techniques – intricate weaves, patterns and vibrant colours that showcase the heritage of India, according to a statement issued yesterday.
“Fabindia’s distinctive offering extends from clothing for women, men and kids, jewellery, bags and footwear to furniture, home linen, lighting, giftware, organic foods and personal care products.
“Fabindia was established in 1960 by John Bissell, who came to India to advise All India Handicrafts Board and Cottage Industries on creating a market for handloom fabrics. He developed a deep appreciation and respect for the genius of the Indian crafts and weaving, and decided to stay in India and help create a market for the craft.
“Bissell had a vision for the company that placed equitable relationships at the centre of the business model he chose for Fabindia. While ‘sustainable relationships’ is central to a lot of companies today, at the time the company came into being, this approach was very innovative and idealistic.
“Initially, Fabindia supplied hand woven textiles and dhurries to a number of stores abroad, including Habitat. Fabindia’s first retail store opened in 1976 in Greater Kailash in Delhi – this remains one of the flagship stores.
“In 1998, William Bissell took over at the helm of the company, and shifted the focus to the domestic market in India and established the company as it is known today: an alternative to the mass produced, with products that appeal to consumers across all age and income groups.
“Presently, Fabindia has 242 stores in 93 cities across India, with 10 stores abroad – including three in the UAE.”
