We are Akanksha Bhatli and Shweta Singh, marketing professionals turned entrepreneurs. Our journey together began in the ninth grade at Army Public School in Lucknow, where we bonded over shared experiences and aspirations. Growing up in the heartland of Chikankari, we were deeply influenced by our mothers, whose summer wardrobes were filled with traditional yet exquisite Chikankari garments. From simple cotton suits with jaali work to elegant sarees adorned with tepchi embroidery and mukaish, their distinctive styles left a lasting impression on us.

As we transitioned from school to college life at Delhi University, Chikankari became a meaningful part of our wardrobes—a nostalgic connection to our roots and a reflection of our individuality. Yet, we noticed a big gap in the market for Chikankari in non-traditional outfits and contemporary silhouettes—something that could seamlessly blend heritage with modern, everyday style. Over time, our shared love for the craft and community deepened, inspiring us to bring this precious art form beyond Lucknow to a wider audience in a new, contemporary avatar.

When we decided to create a brand together, we named it Amhara, a Sanskrit word that signifies “free-flowing garment.” The essence of Amhara is captured in our logo, which incorporates the Puran Viram—a full stop. It services as a reminder to pause, reflect and embrace the present with comfort and confidence.

This philosophy is at the heart of our designs, as we craft new-age thoughtful silhouettes that blend the preciousness of the old with the new, and evoke both effortless ease and a sense of individuality.
We also believe that Chikankari is not just mere embroidery; it is the art of fabric and garment creation. As pioneers in reimagining Chikankari in a modern setting, we seamlessly fuse timeless craftsmanship with contemporary design, making this traditional art form both accessible and relevant in today’s fashion landscape.

Our clothing embodies a timeless allure - an evolving blend of refined simplicity and regal whimsy!

“Precious ensembles rooted in comfort” our launch collection is fueled by profound love for handcrafted chikankari designed to endure, inviting wearers to cherish their preciousness and meaning for years to come. These are thoughtfully crafted silhouettes and fabrics that prioritise comfort, ensuring every piece feels as exquisite as it looks.

We are building a brand that champions small-scale production while preserving the delicate, fading art of Chikankari.

At its core, Amhara is about creating new-age, handcrafted silhouettes that allow you to feel at ease with yourself – both inside and out, while celebrating and preserving your most beautiful self as you journey through life.

Our vision is to grow Amhara into a timeless legacy brand that highlights India’s extraordinary heritage of craftsmanship and design in the modern times.