Meet Madhumita Nath, Founder/ Designer of Ek Katha, a sustainable clothing label based in Mumbai. A NID grad Madhumita shares with us her entrepreneurial story.

Tell us a bit about yourself

Ek Katha is a reflection of my creative sensibilities, encompassing the simple, traditional, in sync with nature and with complete consciousness of the impact that the products and its processes (of creation) have on the society. A textile graduate from the National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad), I have derived a perspective of design based on traditional craft practices through intensive study of the crafts, artisans and their immediate surroundings, from travels and documentations. These enriching experiences combined with my intrinsic intuitive nature are a constant guide for creating my clothing and accessories.

Why is making so important to you?

It is not just making that is important to me, but the entire process of creation which is of utmost importance. So, the gratification is in the ‘How’ and ‘Why’ of making which drives me to follow the path of slow design which is handcrafted by artisans. Handmade, local traditional crafts in their social environment is essential part of our brand.We cannot overlook the social and environmental impacts of our creation. So, what we create should be symbiotic to mother earth.

How did you begin Ek Katha and how has it evolved over the years?

The beginning of the journey was the beginning of questioning. On what lines should my venture be based, will it be sales driven, will it be simply creating pretty things or something more relevant to today’s time and age? What will drive and sustain it?

What I chose was a venture with a set of ethics foundation, which also meant some creative rigidity.I have stuck to creating with short staple indigenous cotton from Kutch, use of plant based dyes and the process of batik.

It’s been two years since we launched in 2016 within which we mostly showcased in shows in Mumbai, retailed in stores across India, showcased in Amsterdam, Berlin and Madrid and are very excited to showcase at the sustainable day ‘Slow Heart’ at Madrid in July 2018 as part of the Madrid Fashion Week. Also we have received the ‘CRAFTMARK’ certification from AIACA for two processes; plain cotton weaving with Kala cotton and Batik wood block printing.

It has been a satisfying ride, bumpy in parts and exhilarating too.

What is your personal favorite pick from your Ek Katha right now? And why?

My personal favourite is the up cycled trench coat as it’s created out of the left over fabric wastes and turned into a trendy chic coat which can be worn in the mild winters of India and the European summers. This product is part of the up cycled range and truly represents what we stand for.

What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart.

I shall be displaying the organic Kala cotton collection with batik prints and the up cycled product range from my zero waste studio.

What is a typical working day like?

I work for all seven days. Delegating work,creating now things, writing and connecting with like- minded people from all over the world is all part and parcel of a typical day. For me there are no set work hours, it is flexible and that also keeps me upbeat because monotony for me completely hinders creativity.

Any design story you would like to share.

I think there is no specific design story to share,but I have come across very interesting people and skilled craftsmen in the process who have guided me and shaped my thought process . The learning of patience through my work is the quality which will take me to the next level in this lifetime is what I have come to understand.This story has just started…

Meet the Maker @
By Hand From The Heart Makers Market 24th Edition
Friday – Saturday
24th – 25th August, 2018
10:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m
Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park, (old Adyar Gate Hotel)
132, T.T.K Road, Alwarpet, Chennai – 600018, India.

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