Smriti Irani Graces the Launch of BIBA Founder Meena Bindra’s Memoir, Capturing Four Decades of Fashion and Resilience
New Delhi: The Founder and Chairperson of Biba, Mrs Meena Bindra unveiled A Stitch in Time: The Biba Story, an inspiring memoir capturing the Biba journey which redefined Indian fashion.The event saw Mrs. Smriti Irani, Former Union Minister of Women & Child Development, gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest.
The book captures Meena Bindra’s remarkable journey from her childhood in Delhi to her life as a naval wife, and ultimately, her foray into entrepreneurship at a time when women in business were a rarity. It highlights her pioneering efforts to popularize the salwar kameez while also chronicling the evolution of India’s fashion and retail industries.
Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Smriti Irani lauded Meena Bindra’s inspiring journey, saying, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the ‘bebe’ of Biba on the launch of her memoir. BIBA has been a monumental force behind conserving and at the same time pushing forward the Indian textile industry within India and across borders. I admire her remarkable courage to embark on a business journey at the age of 40, especially during an era when women in business were a rarity. She stands as a true inspiration for women across generations and aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that no dream is too big and no barrier insurmountable.”
In A Stitch in Time, Mrs. Bindra provides an honest and captivating account of the challenges she faced as a woman entrepreneur, balancing personal and professional responsibilities while navigating an uncharted industry. She recounts the early days of working from her home, designing traditional wear for women, and gradually expanding into one of the most recognized fashion brands in India.
Reflecting on her journey, Mrs. Meena Bindra, Founder and Chairperson, Biba said, “When I started my venture, I had no grand ambitions—just a passion for design and the desire to earn some pocket money. The ₹8,000 loan I took to start this venture was a leap of faith, and this leap changed the course of my life and many others. Biba made the Salwar Kameez into a pan-India dress uniting our diverse nation, as it was accepted and adapted by all as an alternate to a saree. Through this book I want the readers to know the magic that happens when you follow your heart. I hope my story resonates with readers and motivates them to pursue their own dreams. I also want to thank my family and friends, who have given me the strength and support to pursue my passion.”
Mr. Siddharath Bindra, Managing Director, Biba said “I am immensely proud to celebrate my mother’s journey today. Her story is not just about building a brand but about breaking barriers and redefining possibilities for women in India. Growing up, I have seen her determination, entrepreneurial spirit, and her ability to turn challenges into opportunities from very close quarters and I hope it inspires many more to dream big and embrace their unique journey.”
The book offers a unique perspective on the inception and evolution of the Indian fashion industry, charting its journey from modest beginnings to becoming a prominent part of the market. It captures the trials, opportunities, and breakthroughs that have defined this journey. This makes it an insightful read for fashion enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about India’s evolving retail landscape.
A Stitch in Time: The Biba Story promises to resonate with readers as both a personal tale of resilience and a tribute to the dynamic spirit of Indian entrepreneurship.
