Hi! I’m Devika, the founder of Pardesi.

 What is Pardesi? Pardesi means foreigner, wanderer and traveler. I was born and raised in New Delhi, India and lived in Bangkok and London before moving to the US in 2016.

I have always moved around but the one thing that remained constant was the yearning to remain connected to my Indian heritage. I found that the further I moved from home, the closer I felt to my roots.

I marvel in the fragrance of ghee and marigolds, and in the rich, earthy scent of cotton textiles.

Growing up we would travel to Rajasthan every winter and I would immerse myself in the culture, walking through the bustling bazaars and narrow streets buying block printed scarves, bangles and delicious treats. I marveled at the skill and dedication of the artisans who brought these timeless creations to life.

Through Pardesi, I am bringing the vibrant colors and rich heritage of India to life.

At the heart of Pardesi lies the captivating art of block printing, an ancient craft that weaves together tradition, skill, and a profound appreciation for India's rich cultural heritage. Dating back over a thousand years, block printing is a technique that involves intricately carved wooden blocks to transfer elaborate designs onto fabric.

Each Pardesi garment or tote begins its journey as 100% cotton, carefully sourced to ensure the highest quality and minimal environmental impact. Once the fabric is prepared, our artisans set to work, delicately applying dyes and pigments to their wooden blocks before pressing them onto the fabric with precision and care.

In the skilled hands of our artisans in India, each block is a masterpiece in itself, meticulously crafted to capture the essence of our designs. These artisans, often hailing from generations of block printers, possess a deep understanding of the craft, passed down through centuries of practice and dedication.

Every step of the block printing process is carried out by hand, from aligning the blocks to applying the perfect amount of pressure, resulting in unique variations that add to the charm and character of each garment.

It's a labor-intensive process that demands patience, skill, and a profound respect for the art form.

When you wear a garment from Pardesi, you're not just adorning yourself in exquisite fashion; you're also carrying a piece of history, culture, and tradition.

Join us in our journey to preserve the art of block printing and celebrate the timeless beauty of India's artistic legacy.

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