Kiniho Preserves Dying Art Forms Through Sustainable Fashion at 29th day of Tribal Futures Fest
Iba Mallai, founder of Kiniho, shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to creating a sustainable fashion brand rooted in her cultural heritage. Kiniho's ethical and sustainable practices, combined with its stunning designs, are making a significant impact on the fashion industry. Learn how this brand is preserving traditional crafts, empowering local artisans, and promoting sustainable living. Discover the story behind Kiniho's unique collections, inspired by ancient art forms and folktales.
Staff Editor 
During an online session at Tribal Futures Fest, Iba Mallai, founder of Kiniho, shared her journey from a corporate job to creating a sustainable fashion brand rooted in her cultural heritage. Discontented with her previous work, Iba found inspiration in her passion for fabrics and traditional crafts, leading her to discover Eri silk—a sustainable, non-violent fabric closely tied to her Bhoi community in Shillong. This session was host Anupam Purty a graphic designer from Ranchi.
Kiniho, which means "These are the ones" in Bhoi, reflects Iba's realization that what she was searching for was already in her community. Eri silk, known for its ethical production and unique properties, became the cornerstone of her brand. Collaborating with artisans in Umden Nongtluh, a village rich in cultural traditions, Iba embraces traditional methods like natural dyeing and bamboo floor loom weaving, blending these with contemporary designs.
One of Kiniho's collections, U Sier Lapalang, is inspired by a Khasi folktale and incorporates Khneng embroidery, a rare and ancient art form from the Mustoh people. By integrating this embroidery into modern designs, Kiniho not only preserves this dying art but also brings cultural stories to life through fashion.
Iba emphasized that Kiniho's approach extends beyond fashion; it is about fostering a supportive and ethical work environment. The brand prioritizes fair wages, job satisfaction, and the well-being of its weavers, respecting their multifaceted lives and cultural responsibilities. Through Kiniho, Iba Mallai honors her heritage, revives traditional crafts, and promotes sustainable living, making a meaningful impact on both her community and the fashion industry.
The session concluded with 30 min of QnA where participants got the opportunity to directly interact with Iba.
The month-long 'Tribal Futures' online festival is a unique initiative of the Tribal Design Forum that provides a platform for creative professionals and designers from various tribal communities across India. Through creative discussions, the festival is showcasing a new face of tribal youth to the world.
