Where Heritage Finds New Light

Inara means illumination — a quiet belief in bringing thoughtful attention to what truly matters. For us, it is about allowing heritage to be seen, felt, and lived with in the present. We do not see it as nostalgia, but as a continuing legacy — meant to evolve without losing its soul. At Inara, we work closely with artisans to create pieces that find relevance in everyday life. Pieces that are not made for a moment, but for repeated use — to be worn, placed, and lived with.

Our Founder Story

I’m Polin, the founder of Inara.

I grew up in Lucknow, surrounded by Chikankari — in wardrobes, in courtyards, and in the quiet rhythm of artisans who stitched stories into fabric. Later, life as a military wife took me across India, rarely staying in one place. Yet through every move, my connection to Indian textiles stayed with me — steady, unspoken, waiting.

That moment of return came during the pandemic. In the stillness, I found my way back to Chikankari, with a desire to honour it in a way that felt both contemporary and true. My first experiment — a Chikankari lampshade — brought an unexpected kind of joy, not only to those who encountered it, but also to the artisans who brought it to life.

That joy became the foundation of Inara.

Inara is a space where heritage meets modern living, and where craft is allowed to grow with dignity. Today, every piece we create carries that intention — to illuminate a legacy that has always lived close to my heart.

The Hands That Keep Tradition Alive

Our work begins in a village near Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh where Chikankari has been practised for generations. Over 300 women artisans work with us — each mastering stitches passed down from mother to daughter. From the airy lightness of Jaali to the raised texture of Murri and the elegance of Bakhiya. Their hands hold an entire heritage.For them, Chikankari is independence, identity, and pride. For us, they are the heart of Inara. Every time you bring home an Inara piece, you help keep this art, and these stories alive.