The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2023 - Issue 33

bitebags Aranyani Goddess of the Forest London Cristina Lloyd meets Aranyani, India’s first luxury international handbag brand, focusing on a sustainable legacy. T he atelier concept originated in India before it was incorporated in Europe, inspiring some fashion houses. Accessories brand Aranyani embraces this concept; however, their team members train with top leather craftspeople from Europe’s leading fashion and luxury brands for three years before they begin working at the state-of-the-art atelier in Bengaluru, southern India. “In keeping with the brand’s spirit and identity, we bring together the best heritage artistry from India and manufacturer them on our bags in a contemporary aesthetic.” In Hinduism, Aranyani is the goddess of forests and the wild animals that dwell within them. Founder and creative direc- tor Haresh Mirpuri began his journey in the clothing industry in Indonesia. In 1996, he opened a spinning mill and became Asia’s most renowned producer of open-end yarn. After 20 years of mastering textiles, he launched the brand in 2019 to revital- ise and redefine the luxury industry in India, spreading the country’s artistry and sustainability globally. The brand’s design principles are inspired by nature and crafted by tradition. “Nature inspires us to see harmony in creative cha- os and prioritise this harmony over efficiency in all aspects of our state-of-the-art atelier. The handbag design exudes the soul of India while the artwork on the bags is all heritage artistry in a modern style.” Its ethos is centred on the Vedic Indian civ- ilisation (1500-500 BCE) existing during the late Bronze Age and the early Iron Age, embracing SAI (Service, Awareness and Inclusivity) values.