Our Story
Lekha (pronounced LAY-ka) is named after our founder's grandmother, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia (1919-2001), formerly Lekha Divyeshwari Devi — a major political figure in India's fight for independence. Lekha embodied conviction, courage, and strength. She always wore white handspun muslin saris, a testament to her abiding care for the economic independence of rural India.
Lekha (pronounced LAY-ka) is named after our founder's grandmother, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia (1919-2001), formerly Lekha Divyeshwari Devi — a major political figure in India's fight for independence. Lekha embodied conviction, courage, and strength. She always wore white handspun muslin saris, a testament to her abiding care for the economic independence of rural India.
We are devoted to following in her footsteps by partnering with local artisans to remedy the effects of gender bias on economic opportunities and independence. Like Lekha, we seek to move through the world with integrity, tenderness, and an open, kind heart.
Saheli Women
Meet The Saheli Women
This women-owned, slow fashion clothing atelier and social enterprise in rural India is one of our signature partners. The Saheli Women combat the exploitative labor of fast fashion by providing fair wages and a safe working environment, while also empowering women by teaching income-generating skills — from fabric dying, to garment construction, to embroidery — so they can earn a livelihood and achieve economic independence. We’ve been working with these talented artisans since 2018 and are incredibly proud to be a long-term international partner.
Our Founder
Our Founder
Lekha founder Trishala Bhansali was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but spent summers with her family in Mumbai, roaming fabric stalls and creating her own clothes as early as age 13. She started Lekha in the winter of 2017 out of a desire to be more connected with both her hometown of New Orleans and her Indian heritage.
By supporting Lekha, you're empowering women and contributing to the philanthropic missions of our partners, from providing education for girls to building better infrastructure in rural communities.
Lekha creates timeless clothing. accessories, and goods for the home. Each piece is handmade and meant to travel alongside you on all the stages of life's journey. Using only high-quality, hand loomed organic materials, like linen, silk, and muslin, and incorporating both traditional and new textile techniques, our soft, breathable, and machine-washable clothing is designed to flatter every body and fit any occasion.
