The Fire Within: Kailash’s Journey of Strength and Change

Few people know that my mother-in-law is the quiet force behind Paisley Affair. She believed in my dream and gave me the push I needed to turn it into reality.

Empowering others isn’t easy unless you feel empowered yourself, and that made me curious about her own journey. She runs a boutique in Jaipur, India—an incredible achievement in a traditionally patriarchal society. As I learned more about her story, I was deeply inspired!

1958 Ajmer, India

Kailash was just seven years old when she started questioning the world around her. With intelligent eyes and an innocent face, she often wondered why women in her village were treated as mere caretakers, their identities shaped by the expectations of society rather than their own dreams. She saw her peers silenced, dismissed, and mistreated, while something deep inside her refused to accept this as the only way.

Born into a family of five siblings, Kailash was the second youngest. Her father, a station master in Indian Railways, moved frequently, exposing her to both the humble beginnings of rural life and the constraints imposed upon women. Despite societal norms, she was fortunate to receive an education—an uncommon privilege for girls in her village. But as she advanced in school, she realized why so few girls were alongside her.

She witnessed firsthand how young girls were exploited—whether at home, in school, or within the rigid cultural structures that dictated their existence. 

As part of community traditions, women would step back from household duties during their menstrual cycle, and young girls from the neighborhood—some as young as ten or eleven—were expected to step in, taking on responsibilities like cooking meals and maintaining the prayer room. During these times, Kailash became aware of troubling realities—stories of girls facing vulnerability in the very homes they served. Yet, they had no voice. Speaking up often meant facing blame, shame, or even the risk of being pulled out of school, leaving them with little choice but to endure in silence.

Kailash’s heart burned with quiet rebellion. She didn’t know the solution yet, but she knew the society she lived in was not the answer.

As a teenager, she challenged superstitions, particularly those around menstruation, within her own home. These small acts of defiance slowly shifted perspectives, paving the way for younger girls in her family to experience a little more freedom than she had.

The Moment That Changed Everything

One defining moment came during her college years. Kailash was accompanying a couple to a village fair, a vibrant maze of stalls selling food, crafts, and trinkets. As they strolled through, the wife saw a vendor roasting fresh groundnuts and asked her husband if they could buy some. He refused. The nuts were inexpensive, so she decided to buy them herself. She ate a few, shared some with Kailash, and then offered some to her husband.

What happened next shook Kailash to her core.

The husband’s face contorted with rage. How dare she disobey him? How dare she make a decision for herself? He grabbed the packet of peanuts and threw them to the ground, his anger echoing through the fair.

It was in that moment that Kailash fully grasped the depth of a woman's dependence—not just financially, but emotionally, socially, and in terms of self-worth. She vowed never to rely on anyone for permission to follow her desires. A woman should never have to extend her hand for dignity or respect.

1972 Jaipur, India

The Quiet Resistance  

Kailash completed her education and became a lecturer before marrying at 21. Her husband was educated, but the family adhered to traditional customs. A married woman’s role was clear—she was to be a devoted homemaker, bound to religious duties and the family’s needs. Working outside the home was not an option.

Though she embraced her new responsibilities, Kailash found ways to nurture her creativity. She stitched and embroidered clothes for her children, helped her husband with his business accounts, and supported friends in their endeavors. Every small act of learning and creating built her confidence.

When her children grew older, she felt a calling she couldn’t ignore. She wanted to do something of her own—without neglecting her family. With her savings, she gathered a small team of local women and started making children’s clothing. At first, sales trickled in from neighbors. It was seen as a hobby. But soon, she had more inventory than she could manage.

To clear out stock, she planned a small sale.

That sale changed everything.

1984 Jaipur, India

Word spread about her quality and designs, and before she knew it, demand surged. Now, her tiny operation was no longer just a passion project—it was a business.

A "Good Girl" Shouldn't Do This

But with success came resistance. Her in-laws, husband, brothers, and even her own mother advised her to stop. Business would distract her from her primary duties. A "good girl" wouldn’t defy societal norms.

But Kailash had long made up her mind—she would rather be a "bad girl" than abandon her calling.

Her father was the only one who stood by her. "She’s working from home, reinvesting her earnings, and employing village women. If this makes her happy and doesn’t affect her duties, let her continue."

That approval was enough.

Present Jaipur, India

The Legacy She Built

Today, Kailash runs a thriving business from her home. “Unique Fashion Hut”-  a space brimming with colors, textiles, and inspiration. Her designs now represent fabrics from all over India, and she has expanded into global markets. She provides employment to local artisans, empowering both men and women in her community.

But perhaps her greatest achievement isn’t just her success—it’s the impact she has made. Women don’t just come to her shop to buy clothes; they come for encouragement, for motivation, for proof that they, too, can carve their own path.

Her work has been recognized through numerous awards, and she was chosen as the president of Shubham, an esteemed women’s organization, where she inspires thousands of women to break barriers and reclaim their power.

And she didn’t stop there. Kailash also founded ‘Happy Moments’ - a nonprofit after-school program for underprivileged children. More than just academics, ‘Happy Moments’ teaches confidence and belonging. She takes these children to the most luxurious malls, theaters, and restaurants—not for indulgence, but to show them that they belong everywhere, that they are not limited by their circumstances.

When asked what drives her, she smiles and says:

"There are still miles to go before I sleep."

 

Q&A with Kailash

What advice would you give to women facing hardships within their own communities and families? How can they break the cycle of oppression when they feel powerless to fight back?

Silently accepting injustice will never lead to change. Women must recognize that they are already in a difficult situation, and speaking up may not carry as much risk as they fear. Strength and courage are essential—not to wage a battle, but to firmly and respectfully voice their struggles and stand up for their rights.

Change begins with the first step. No one else can live their life or fight their battles for them. Often, inequality starts within their own homes, imposed by parents or societal norms. Raising their voice early, even in small ways, can set the foundation for change. Every small step counts—because even the quietest resistance can pave the way for a stronger future.

What is your mantra to keep calm when you encounter a tough situation?

My mantra is to stay calm and trust yourself. You may be a daughter, a wife, or a mother, but above all, you are a strong woman capable of standing up for yourself in any situation. Strength isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional too. Challenges will come and go, but with intelligence and courage, you can face them all.

Do you feel fulfilled? Is there a calling?

The world is vast, filled with endless experiences to see, feel, and learn. One lifetime never seems enough to embrace it all. Right now, I’m on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the deeper purpose of my life—both spiritually and mentally.

What do you love about Paisley Affair pieces

First, let’s talk about Ruchi, the heart behind Paisley Affair. She is an incredibly talented designer, a beautiful soul, and a kind-hearted person who deeply connects with nature. Her warmth, creativity, and passion shine through in every piece she creates.

Paisley Affair’s designs are crafted with thoughtfulness, each motif and color carefully chosen to tell a story. The products embody peace, elegance, and comfort—like a soothing embrace after a long day. I absolutely love Paisley Affair and have no doubt it will go far. My best wishes are always with them!

Our Soft Peach print is named after Kailash. Check out the Kailash collection here!