Kusha Bindal

I'm Kusha Bindal and I was born in 1990 in Uttar Pradesh. As a child, I was very inclined toward creative work and art. At school, I would often participate in craft work and projects. Also, my mother used to paint and I loved all the colors — it was inspiring to see the rich hues come together in a wonderful piece of art. To some extent, I would say, my mother has been my inspiration.

Although I completed a degree in accounting, my calling was something different. I was always keen on working in the field of arts and crafts. While in school, I'd find interesting handicrafts where ever I'd go. Today, I have huge collection put together over many years. Even while on vacation, instead of buying clothes, shoes and bags, I'd go look for handcrafted items.

"In 2014, I started reaching out to artisans. I'd give them my own designs to create for me and began selling them online. Slowly, I started building a team of designers and craftspeople, and there has been no turning back.

"Handicrafts have a unique appeal. I find it amazing how a product created in a small village in India can reach the living room of a faraway metropolitan city. Internet is bringing each and every one of us so close! My dream is to reach out to as many people as possible and bring India's most exquisite craftsmanship to every nook and corner of the world.

"At the present time, I am associated with artisans in different parts of India including Jaipur, Orissa, Moradabad, Agra and Kashmir. I plan to reach out to many more.

"My designs include terracotta vases, chimes and bells, papier mache, soapstone items, wood carvings and meenakari. I would surely like to introduce more and more. However, the one thing that I am really keen on introducing is kansa dinner ware, an ancient style of cook and serve ware that has been used for many centuries and is crafted in Orissa. Kansa is a copper and tin alloy, and the alkalinizing metal is thought to have wellness benefits."