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  • Asmita Biswas

Raw Mango's Modern Take on Traditional Weaves

Prepare to be questioned about whether your great-grandma's handwoven masterpiece requires a smartphone upgrade, as a modern flair is introduced.


Photo: Raw Mango at Lakmé Fashion Week'23


In the intricate tapestry of India's rich cultural heritage, Raw Mango emerges as a modern design house that not only draws inspiration but also questions the very essence of tradition through its avant-garde approach to traditional weaves. Founded in 2008 by Sanjay Garg, Raw Mango embarked on a transformative journey, redefining the narrative of handloom, questioning place, and reshaping perspectives in the world of textile design.


Raw Mango's unique voice resonates from its deep roots in craft and community. The brand's foray into handloom in 2008 was not just a design exploration but a meticulous investigation of possibilities within the intricate threads of India's diverse colors, philosophies, and cultures. This foundation serves as the bedrock for Raw Mango's mission to create new conversations in textile and culture.


The collaboration with skilled artisans, or karigars, across regions like Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, and Varanasi signifies Raw Mango's commitment to preserving century-old skills. The designs crafted in these collaborations not only pay homage to tradition but push the boundaries of innovation, seeking to define a new aesthetic vocabulary that is both contemporary and rooted in heritage.


At the heart of Raw Mango's success is Sanjay Garg, whose upbringing in the village of Mubarikpur, Rajasthan, and academic journey in textile design laid the foundation for the brand's distinctive language. Garg's work in Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh in 2008 marked a turning point, where he undertook groundbreaking innovations in the yarn and weaving process. These interventions, a decade later, visually define Chanderi today, showcasing Garg's visionary approach to traditional craftsmanship.


Raw Mango's design philosophy is characterized by a relentless commitment to experimentation. Beyond Chanderi, Garg's explorations extend to Mashru, Benarasi, and Ikat, showcasing a willingness to challenge conventions and explore new possibilities within the realm of traditional weaves. This commitment underpins Raw Mango's ability to stay at the forefront of design innovation.


Always informed by India, Raw Mango exemplifies a unique fusion of tradition and modernity. Garg's constant engagement with the established rubric of India's cultural heritage serves as a guiding force, allowing Raw Mango to imagine, shape, and contribute to new possibilities within the intricate tapestry of traditional weaves.


Raw Mango's modern take on traditional weaves is a testament to its visionary founder, Sanjay Garg, and the brand's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. Through karigar collaborations, innovation in traditional techniques, and a constant engagement with India's rich heritage, Raw Mango has not only taken a modern approach but has become a pioneer in redefining the very fabric of traditional weaves for the contemporary world.

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