Cotton Sari in patchworked panels

Mora started in 2009, while I was still living in Bombay when I went on a backpacking trip to Ladakh. I called up my mother from there and said I could visualise what Mora would look like, and what we would make. I elaborated on all my ideas and vision and told her, "Mumma, we will make only one-of-a-kind designs.".

Mumma asked me, "What about your job?". 

I told Mumma, I want us to start Mora together. Trust me, we can do it. Let's try for 1 year; if we cannot, I will go back to my job." 

Mumma said, "Let's do it. But I have no idea how to do it."

I said, "Me too!"

Who would have thought we were walking towards our purpose that would relentlessly and devotedly anchor us for the next 15 years?

With Mumma, the first step was taken. The ability to dream, visualise and decide.

That day, on the phone call from Ladakh, Mumma and I learnt to decide together. This meant that from this moment on we began to develop tangible faith in our ability and also unwavering trust that we are guided, protected and there is nothing to lose.

We decided to walk together as a professional team and have continued since. 

Hence, I call this shawl Ammu, what I call Mumma sometimes, Ammu Mummu!

Ammu is a one-of-a-kind textile designed to highlight a unique coming together of various techniques and creativity of handcraft. This design will not be recreated. Ammu comes with a blouse fabric designed to encourage Mora fireflies to bring their authentic spirit to the fabrication of blouse fit, usage of borders and edgings. The blouse worn by me is not included.

Param did the beadwork

Gurmail, the tailor

Most of the cotton fabrics are woven with Amlawati, Arunachal Pradesh

Mumma, Madhu, technical supervision of stitching

Midtoan.com, the photographer

Designed by Ritika