About Us
About Tulsi
In the realm of handcrafted Indian textiles, Neeru Kumar stands apart as a singular and visionary force. For over four decades, she has quietly led a textile renaissance—one rooted in tradition yet driven by continuous experimentation, research, and an uncompromising design sensibility. Working with indigenous materials and age-old techniques, Neeru has evolved an entirely new vocabulary of textile expression—defined by subtlety, depth, and an instinctive understanding of tone, texture, and form.
A graduate of the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad (1980), Neeru’s early career was marked by a landmark moment in 1989 with her iconic First Design—a black tussar weave that garnered international acclaim. From the outset, her work was recognised for achieving a rare balance: honouring classical textile craft while speaking fluently to a contemporary aesthetic. Often described as contemporary classic, her textiles transcend trend, designed instead for longevity and relevance.
Tulsi’s journey into the global design landscape followed naturally. Neeru has participated in leading international trade fairs including Maison & Objet and Prêt-à-Porter in Paris, and Heimtextil in Frankfurt. Her work has been retailed by some of the world’s most discerning names—Liberty, Selfridges, The Conran Shop, Anthropologie, Le Bon Marché, and Caravane. Collectors and connoisseurs alike have described her textiles as “collectible antiques of the future.”
Today, the Tulsi label encompasses a considered range of shawls, scarves, ready-to-wear garments, and home furnishings. At the studio, Neeru works closely with a young and dedicated design team, continuously exploring textile processes to uncover new expressions—ensuring the brand remains dynamic while deeply rooted in craft.
Research & Craft Projects
At the heart of Tulsi lies an enduring commitment to craft revival through thoughtful design. In recent years, three textile traditions have been central to Tulsi’s research and development: Kantha, Khadi, and Ikat.
Kantha, the traditional running-stitch embroidery practiced by women in rural Bengal using layered vintage saris, was once a domestic, time-bound craft. Through contemporary design intervention, Neeru has reimagined Kantha into refined shawls, bedcovers, cushions, and textile yardages—transforming a fading tradition into a sustainable, income-generating craft while preserving its soul.
Khadi, the hand-spun and hand-woven fabric synonymous with India’s freedom movement, finds renewed relevance at Tulsi. By experimenting with structure, weight, and nuanced colour palettes, Neeru has elevated khadi into a modern, globally resonant textile—equally tactile and sophisticated, vibrant yet restrained.
Ikat, among the most complex and labour-intensive weaving techniques, has long been underexplored beyond traditional saris. Working closely with ikat weavers in Odisha, Neeru has contemporised motifs and applications, ensuring the craft remains economically viable, visually relevant, and alive for future generations.
Across Kantha, khadi, jamdani, ikat, jacquard, and treadle weaving, Tulsi’s philosophy remains consistent: innovation as preservation. By infusing traditional techniques with new purpose and refined design, Tulsi ensures these crafts continue to evolve—honoured, valued, and sustained in a modern world.
