Rajka- 'Continuation of a great heritage' Exciting, contemporary and full of freshness, the designs of Rajka are at the same time modern and deeply rooted in centuries old traditions of Indian craft. Building on traditional textile skills of western India such as appliqué and embroidery, Rajka presents a unique collection of hand crafted furnishings and garments. Rajka pottery specializes in large hand made terracotta pottery, again displaying the same blend of tradition with contemporary design. Rajshree Sarabhai, who founded the company with her husband, two decades ago, leads the design team. To her designing has come naturally. Her sense of pattern and colour is both innovative and yet part of the traditions and culture of western India. A very sensitive designer, with an intrinsic sense of colour, Rajshree started using appliqué, embroidery and quilting in her designs. Being a nature lover and photographer, she uses inspirations from nature in her work. Experimenting with different techniques, Rajka’s first collection was exported to The Conran Shop, UK. Rajka realized the need to develop and interpret designs for particular clients and shops. Rajka works closely with client in developing collections for a particular look. Today, Rajka exports to selected clients in Europe, the UK, USA, Japan, Australia and several other countries. But in each case the emphasis is on developing a long-term relationship and understanding of each particular client to develop a unique product. The range of cushion covers, bedspreads, quilts, curtains, table linen and garments, accessories, floor coverings and pottery, are made by craft people usually working in their own environments. Through Rajka’s office in the desert region of Kachchh, it works with craft women who can continue to work from beautiful but isolated villages. It is in these desert and hostile environments of Kachchh and Rajasthan that some of the most beautiful craft skills developed. Through this work Rajka hopes to promote and conserve some of these rich traditions of India. The hand made pieces developed in this way are then put through a process of finishing and quality testing for the international market. The Rajka facility at Naroda on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, has a team that handles and finishes the products for export. While most of its market is abroad, Rajka products are also available through select shops in India and its own outlets in Ahmedabad and Goa. Rajka’s Mumbai office at the World Trade Centre, coordinates international shipping. |
