A small village in Uttar Pradesh has found a place in the international fashion conversation, thanks to the efforts of Shabana Azmi and designer Manish Malhotra. Their long association with Mijwan has helped bring the village’s traditional chikankari craftsmanship to audiences far beyond India.
The Story Behind Mijwan
Mijwan, located in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh district, was associated with renowned poet Kaifi Azmi, who established initiatives aimed at education and women’s empowerment in the village.
The Mijwan Welfare Society later expanded its work into areas including girls’ education, vocational training, computer literacy and opportunities for women’s financial independence.
Shabana Azmi Carries the Legacy Forward
After Kaifi Azmi’s death, his daughter Shabana Azmi continued his social initiatives through the Mijwan Welfare Society. Her efforts helped increase the organisation’s focus on education and economic opportunities for women in rural communities.
Manish Malhotra Joins the Journey
Manish Malhotra’s association with Mijwan began around 2010. The partnership led to the launch of Mijwan Sonnets in Fabric in 2011, with an emphasis on preserving chikankari while creating opportunities for local artisans, particularly women.
From Village Craft to Fashion Runway
The Mijwan fashion shows gradually became a major platform for showcasing the artisans’ intricate embroidery. Bollywood personalities have participated as showstoppers, bringing greater visibility to the craftsmanship and helping support the organisation’s wider social mission.
Chikankari Reaches Paris
A major milestone came in 2026 when Mijwan’s hand-embroidered chikankari featured in Manish Malhotra’s debut at Paris Haute Couture Week. The appearance placed the work of the village’s women artisans on one of the world’s most prominent couture platforms.
More Than Fashion
The Mijwan story shows how traditional craftsmanship can become part of a larger conversation about livelihoods, education and women’s independence. Its journey from a village in Uttar Pradesh to an international couture platform also highlights the growing global visibility of Indian handcraft.
For Mijwan’s artisans, the international exposure is not simply about fashion. It represents recognition for skills that have been passed down through generations and opportunities created through their craft.