Reviving Heritage with a Modern Twist

India’s rich textile heritage is finding new life through innovative startups, and House of Chikankari is leading this transformation. The women-led D2C brand has raised Rs 25 crore in a Series A funding round led by Cap Alpha Ventures. With a focus on blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion, the startup is redefining how ethnic wear is perceived by modern consumers.

Founders Building a Scalable Fashion Brand

Founded in 2020 by Aakriti Rawal and Poonam Rawal, the Delhi-based brand focuses on reinterpreting chikankari embroidery, a centuries-old handcraft, into stylish, everyday apparel. Their approach combines heritage techniques with modern designs, making traditional wear more accessible and relevant to today’s audience.

Expanding Product Portfolio and Market Reach

The newly raised capital will be used to expand the company’s product range, which currently includes kurtas, sarees, kaftans, and other ethnic wear categories. Additionally, the brand plans to strengthen its omnichannel presence by entering offline retail while continuing to scale its online platforms. Investments in marketing, team expansion, and operational efficiency are also part of its growth strategy.

Empowering Artisans and Preserving Craftsmanship

One of the core strengths of House of Chikankari lies in its extensive network of over 10,000 artisans across India. By working closely with these skilled craftsmen, the brand not only preserves traditional embroidery techniques but also creates sustainable livelihood opportunities. This model ensures that heritage craftsmanship continues to thrive in a rapidly modernizing fashion industry.

Strong Growth and Global Presence

The startup has demonstrated impressive growth, reporting over 50% increase in the 2025–26 financial year. It currently operates at an annual revenue run rate of around Rs 50 crore and has served more than 200,000 customers. With shipping capabilities across 20+ countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, the brand is steadily building a global presence.

From Shark Tank to Market Success

House of Chikankari gained widespread recognition after its appearance on Shark Tank India Season 2 in 2023. Since then, it has continued to scale its operations and strengthen its brand identity. The company’s digital platforms attract over 900,000 monthly sessions, with a majority of revenue coming from its proprietary channels.

Future Vision and Growth Strategy

Looking ahead, House of Chikankari aims for multi-fold growth over the next two years. By focusing on product innovation, expanding distribution channels, and building a strong brand narrative, the startup is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the ethnic wear market.

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