Neeru Kumar "doesn't have time" for fashion weeks and would rather tread the textile trail. Her love for looms has brought her global acclaim and a power-packed clientele, but the reticent designer feels "only her work should do the talking"

While an association with a celebrity is the calling card for most, veteran textile designer Neeru Kumar with a client list boasting of names like Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi, Mira Nair, Arundhati Roy, Rekha, Sheila Dikshit et al would let her 30 years of experience do the talking.
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The Delhi-based designer showcases her work in 15 museum stores across the world and has a desi presence in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.

A mother of two (a son and a daughter in early twenties), Kumar's fabrics are crafted into resplendent saris, scarves, shawls apart from bedcovers, cushion covers and wall hangings.
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Talking keenly about her "kaarigars," the designer shies away at the very mention of her high-profile patrons.
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"They believe in my artistic sensibilities and hence pick up stuff from my stores," begins the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad alum as she settles down for a tete-a-tete. Excerpts from her tapestry tale.

With almost 30 years in the world of weaves, doesn't it get monotonous?
It would have been, if designing was just a profession. Designing textiles is my passion. My love for fabrics, patterns and the skill of hand weaving keep me going.

How did you get interested in textile designing?
It began at a very young age. As a schoolgirl, I remember, I chose my own fabrics. I would select dresses with traditional works. My love for weaves slowly turned into a passion and I decided to pursue it professionally.