By Tanvi Munjal
Sujata and Taniya, two sisters with no background in the textile and apparel business, embarked on a remarkable journey that led them to build a ₹56 crore saree brand called ‘SUTA.’ Restless in their careers and yearning to create something of their own, they delved into the world of clothing and fashion, driven by their deep-rooted love for art and culture across India.
It was during a moment of brainstorming that the spark of ‘SUTA’ ignited within them. Derived from the first letters of their names, ‘Su’ from Sujata and ‘Ta’ from Taniya, the name encapsulated their sisterly bond and the essence of thread, representing their journey’s foundation and the countless possibilities ahead.
Sujata and Taniya had always been captivated by the diversity of Indian art and culture, even during their years in the corporate world. Their deep passion for these traditions fueled their desire to create a clothing brand that celebrated the rich heritage of India.
In 2016, armed with determination and a vision, they embarked on their entrepreneurial journey despite numerous challenges. In the early years, they faced setbacks, made mistakes, and encountered unscrupulous individuals who tried to exploit their lack of experience. However, undeterred, they continued their pursuit of crafting high-quality garments that genuinely represented the heritage and craftsmanship of India.
One of the key aspects they focused on was finding skilled weavers from different corners of the country. Their relentless search eventually led them to the remote corners of West Bengal, where they established two factories. Initially working with only two weavers, they gradually expanded their team to 17,000 skilled artisans within two years.
SUTA gained immense popularity for its range of cotton sarees, each representing different regional traditions that showcased the diversity of Indian culture. The brand’s commitment to high-quality fabrics and intricate weaves quickly attracted attention, leading to their sarees being worn by renowned celebrities such as Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit. The brand’s success was not only attributed to its beautiful designs but also to its dedication to details. Suta aimed to add elegance, boldness, and grace to their crafted inspirations. The essence of their brand was rooted in the idea of thread, symbolising the traditional craft traditions of India. Like a pure creation that begins with a needle and thread, Suta aimed to offer novelty with every experience.
With an initial investment of about 3 lakh each, Sujata and Taniya had a target market: modern Indian working women aged between 18 and 35. They believed their creations would resonate with this demographic, offering them comfort, style, and traditional aesthetics. Their deep understanding of their target audience allowed them to create designs that truly spoke to the aspirations and tastes of modern Indian women.
Their hard work, perseverance, and sheer passion have paid off today. In 2023, SUTA generated a staggering revenue of ₹56 crore, a testament to the sisters’ unwavering dedication to their craft. The brand has become a household name, known for its exquisite sarees that evoke a sense of pride in the heritage and culture of India.
Sujata and Taniya’s journey is not merely a story of entrepreneurial success but a tale of resilience, creativity, and the power of following one’s dreams. Their incredible rise in the textile and apparel industry, without any previous experience, proves that anything is possible with determination and an unwavering belief in oneself. SUTA is a shining example of how passion and a deep connection to one’s roots can pave the way for extraordinary achievements.
