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Gayatri Khanna's Gallery Presents India's Cultural Richness Through Embroidery

Speaking to SheThePeople, designer and artist Gayatri Khanna shares her journey to founding Milaaya Art Gallery, a one-of-a-kind space that displays hand embroidery as fine art.

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Tanya Savkoor
New Update
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Threads of artistry, tradition, and history come together at Milaaya Art Gallery, a one-of-a-kind space in Mumbai that displays hand embroidery as fine art. At this gallery, each piece tells a story, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who have been keeping this heritage art form alive for generations. From centuries-old designs to contemporary interpretations that blend timelessness with innovation, Milaaya celebrates the enduring legacy of embroidery, creativity, and culture.

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Behind this vibrant gallery is Gayatri Khanna, a designer and artist whose passion for preserving Indian heritage shines through every thread and pattern. In an interview with SheThePeople, she shared her journey in the creative industry and her vision to elevate hidden histories behind different embroidery forms to globally recognised art.

SheThePeople In Conversation With Gayatri Khanna

STP: Please share a bit about your background and professional journey.

Gayatri: My journey into the fashion and art world has been a blend of passion, curiosity, and perseverance. After graduating from Babson College in 1997, I began my career in New York as a buyer for Saks Fifth Avenue, where I had the privilege of working with some of the most prestigious luxury brands. This exposure not only deepened my appreciation for high fashion but also gave me a unique insight into the nuances of global craftsmanship.

In 2000, I founded Milaaya Embroideries, an export house dedicated to integrating India’s exquisite embroidery traditions with global couture. Over the years, Milaaya has collaborated with renowned luxury brands like Versace, Givenchy, Saint Laurent, and others bringing Indian artisanship to the global forefront. In 2024, I extended this vision by launching Milaaya Art Gallery—a platform for fibre art that celebrates the incredible skill of Indian artisans.

STP: How did your interest in art develop, and what were some key moments that shaped your passion?

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Gayatri: My interest in art stems from a lifelong admiration for beauty, detail, and craftsmanship. Growing up in India, I was surrounded by vibrant textiles and intricate embroidery, which sparked a deep appreciation for traditional artistry. Working in the global fashion industry further shaped my passion as I saw how art and design could transcend boundaries and connect cultures.

My interest in art developed from a deep-rooted passion for preserving the timeless craft of embroidery and recognizing its immense cultural value. A key moment that shaped my passion was witnessing the incredible skill and dedication of embroidery artisans firsthand. 

STP: What is the story behind Milaaya Art Gallery? 

Gayatri: The inspiration to create Milaaya Art came from a love for embroidery and respect for the artisans who bring this craft to life. Having spent 25 years working with some of the most iconic luxury brands globally, I witnessed firsthand the artistry and skill involved in couture embroidery. However, I also saw how this traditional craft was increasingly overlooked and undervalued in the fast-paced modern world. This realization sparked a desire to preserve, elevate, and redefine embroidery as a powerful medium of art.

milaaya art gallery

I launched Milaaya Art Gallery in 2024, my vision was to create a first-of-its-kind platform exclusively dedicated to fibre art. Milaaya Art Gallery is more than just a gallery—it’s a movement to preserve and elevate the timeless craft of embroidery by bridging tradition with modernity. We are committed to uplifting artisans, showcasing their incredible talent on a global stage, and redefining embroidery as a powerful medium of collectable Contemporary Art. Through this endeavour, we aim to celebrate heritage, inspire creativity, and create a lasting legacy that honours the stories and artistry behind every masterpiece.

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STP: What made you particularly focus on hand embroidery? 

Gayatri: Growing up surrounded by Indian artistry and craftsmanship, I witnessed the intricate beauty and cultural significance of hand embroidery. Yet, as I moved through the global fashion industry, I realized that this timeless craft was underrepresented. This realization inspired me to create a platform where the rich heritage of embroidery could be preserved and elevated while embracing the aesthetics and narratives of modern art.

milaaya art gallery

My personal journey and professional background have been pivotal in shaping the gallery’s focus on merging tradition with art. Milaaya Art Gallery is a reflection of this journey—a space where Indian craftsmanship meets global artistry. It’s driven by my belief that traditional techniques can find new life when combined with contemporary creativity, allowing embroidery to be recognized as both a cultural legacy and a progressive art form. This focus is not just about preserving tradition but also about innovating and expanding its relevance in today’s artistic landscape.

STP: How do you get grassroots artists and experts on board? What is the curatorial process like at Milaaya? 

Gayatri: Milaaya Art Gallery collaborates with contemporary artists through a thoughtfully curated process. Together with the curator, the gallery conceptualizes a theme for each show that aligns with its mission to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expression. Once the theme is established, artists are selected based on their ability to complement and enhance the chosen narrative through their creative vision.

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Adding to its uniqueness, this partnership operates under a formal licensing agreement, ensuring authenticity and quality. Each artwork is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA), signed by both the artist and Milaaya Art Gallery. This dual endorsement not only guarantees the genuineness of the piece but also enhances its value, offering collectors and art enthusiasts a trustworthy and exceptional investment in contemporary art infused with heritage.

STP: Why do you think embroidery is an important part of India’s artistic landscape?

Gayatri: Embroidery is an integral part of India’s artistic landscape because it embodies centuries of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Each region of India has its own unique embroidery styles which reflect the diverse traditions and histories of the country. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, embroidery is a testament to the incredible skill and creativity of artisans, passed down through generations. It connects art to daily life, often adorning textiles and objects used in homes, celebrations, and rituals. However, it is more than just a craft—it is a living art form that bridges India’s rich past with contemporary design, making it an enduring symbol of the nation’s artistic identity.

nikhil chopra milaaya
A piece by Nikhil Chopra displayed at Milaaya Art Gallery

STP: Over the years, how have you seen India’s art and embroidery community evolve, particularly in the digital age?

Gayatri: While technological advancements and global exposure have brought new opportunities and platforms for artisans, the essence of their skill remains timeless. At Milaaya, with 25 years of expertise in couture and luxury embroidery, we have been at the forefront of this evolution, bridging tradition with innovation.

By showcasing our artisans' work on the international stage, we not only celebrate their craftsmanship but also expose them to global couture embroidery techniques. This exchange has allowed us to master some of the finest techniques, blending precision with creativity. Our commitment is twofold: to elevate the artisans' traditional skills to meet international standards and to enhance their lives and work conditions. Through this, we aim to uplift the trade, ensuring that this heritage art form continues to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

STP: What has been the most rewarding part of founding and running this gallery?

The most rewarding part of founding and running Milaaya Art Gallery has been witnessing the transformation of embroidery from a traditional craft to a celebrated art form. It is incredibly fulfilling to see fibre art gaining recognition and admiration at exhibitions and art fairs, shining a spotlight on the timeless beauty of this heritage.

manjunath kamath milaaya
Manjunath Kamath - Translated Blue Tale - displayed at Milaaya Art Gallery

Equally satisfying is creating a platform where tradition and innovation coexist, inspiring new generations to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance of embroidery. Knowing that the gallery plays a role in preserving India’s artistic legacy while opening new doors for artisans and artists has been the most profound and meaningful reward of this journey.

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