Ritu Kumar
Ritu Kumar is an Indian fashion house founded by designer Ritu Kumar, who opened her first boutique in Kolkata in 1969. It spans couture, ready-to-wear, accessories and homeware rooted in traditional Indian craft.
| Founded | 1969, Kolkata |
|---|---|
| Founder | Ritu Kumar |
| Lines | Ritu Kumar, Ri.Ritu Kumar, LABEL Ritu Kumar |
| Stores | More than 100 |
| Website | ritukumar.com |
What is Ritu Kumar?
Ritu Kumar is one of India's pioneering fashion houses, often described as built by the first lady of Indian fashion. The designer began her work in the late 1960s in a village near Kolkata and opened her first boutique in Kolkata in 1969, starting with two tables, four hand block printers and a belief in India's textile traditions.
History
Kumar became known for reviving traditional techniques such as zardozi, phulkari, amli and kalabattun, working with artisans across the country. Her son Amrish joined the business in the 2000s and has led its development into a multi-brand company. She received the Padma Shri in 2013.
Products and positioning
The house covers couture, ready-to-wear, accessories and homeware. Its main lines are:
- Ritu Kumar: dresses, tops, kurtas, suits, jackets, accessories and home
- Ri.Ritu Kumar: lehengas, gowns, sarees and bridal wear
- LABEL Ritu Kumar: a line for younger customers
Distribution
The brand operates more than 100 stores and sells online through its own website.
Why it matters
Ritu Kumar helped define Indian designer fashion as a business built on heritage craft, and remains a reference for how traditional techniques can be scaled into a national retail brand.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Ritu Kumar?
The house was founded by Indian designer Ritu Kumar, who opened her first boutique in Kolkata in 1969.
What does Ritu Kumar sell?
Ritu Kumar sells couture, bridal wear, ready-to-wear, accessories and homeware across its main and diffusion lines.