Amongst the very famous trade routes of the ancient world lies the lesser known “Wool Road”, stretching between Punjab in India to Tibet, Central Asia and China. Passing through the banks of Beas River lies Kullu in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Hidden in the valley are a group of traditional artisans encapsulating their history and traditions, unbeknownst to the outside world. 

The skillset dates back to the early 1800s when weavers from Rupa village, Kinnaur, were displaced to Kullu valley due to the tyranny of the local king. Before these weavers set foot in the village, the people of Kullu only wove simple plaid patterns. The villagers soon imbibed different skills from these traditional artisans, embracing the craft. After years of creating these fabrics, the Kinnauri influence merged along with their style, and the bolder, detailed patterns were then altered in size and detail.

Dr. Kamal Kishore, was a veterinarian. His love for animals led to him acquiring an Angora Rabbit farm in the ‘80s and the family has been breeding them ever since. This gave birth to a handcrafted clothing brand, Kullu Karishma, established in 1991. Angora rabbits were a part of the Indo-German collaboration, where these rabbits were imported due to the suitable climatic conditions of the Himalayan region. Their wool has a luxurious handfeel, and is gentle on the skin. It has excellent insulating properties while being extremely lightweight at the same time.

Dr. Kishore then started to sell the wool locally, but in the 1990s, European countries started banning the import of Angora wool. This is how he decided to start Kullu Karishma. Since then, the brand has diversified its materials, and has ventured into pashmina, cashmere and merino along with angora. The place is now run by Kanishk Kishore, Dr. Kishore’s son.