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Kashikari

About Us

Kashikari is an IIT Delhi-incubated sustainable textile startup dedicated to transforming agricultural waste into innovative, eco-friendly textile solutions. By converting discarded pineapple leaves into premium natural fibers, we are redefining the future of sustainable fashion through research, circular innovation, and responsible material development.

Founded by Dr. Angika Kushwaha, Kashikari was born from a vision to address two critical global challenges — agricultural waste management and the environmental impact of conventional textiles. What began as a research-driven initiative to utilize underused pineapple leaf biomass has evolved into a mission-driven enterprise focused on creating sustainable alternatives for the textile and fashion industry.

Every year, millions of tonnes of pineapple leaves are burned or discarded after harvesting, contributing to pollution and the loss of valuable biomass resources. At Kashikari, we convert this agricultural residue into biodegradable, durable, and high-value textile fibers, enabling a cleaner and more sustainable production ecosystem.

Supported by the innovation and research ecosystem at IIT Delhi, Kashikari combines advanced material research, sustainable technology, and circular economy principles to develop next-generation textile solutions that are environmentally responsible and socially impactful.

Beyond sustainability, our work also aims to create additional value for farmers and rural communities by transforming agricultural waste into economic opportunity. Through innovation-driven manufacturing and conscious material development, we aspire to contribute to a greener, cleaner, and more responsible future for global textiles.

Founder Story – Dr. Angika Kushwaha

Born into a family deeply rooted in the timeless heritage of Banarasi handloom weaving, Dr. Angika Kushwaha carries forward generations of craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication to Indian textiles. Raised amidst looms, yarns, and the artistry of handwoven fabrics, she witnessed firsthand the skill, patience, and cultural richness that define India’s textile traditions.

Driven by a vision to preserve heritage while embracing sustainability, Dr. Angika transformed her family’s legacy into a future-focused movement through Kashikari Textile Pvt. Ltd. Her journey is a blend of traditional wisdom and modern textile innovation, combining indigenous craftsmanship with sustainable material development.

With a PhD in Textiles and a passion for research-driven innovation, Dr. Angika pioneered the development of pineapple leaf fiber textiles, converting agricultural waste into premium sustainable fabrics. Her work bridges farmers, artisans, and technology to create eco-friendly textiles that support livelihoods while reducing environmental impact.

What began as a family heritage of handloom weaving has evolved into a mission to redefine sustainable luxury. Today, Kashikari empowers hundreds of artisans and weaving communities, preserving India’s textile heritage while creating textiles for the future.

For Dr. Angika, textiles are not merely fabrics, they are stories of culture, sustainability, craftsmanship, and human connection woven together for generations to come.

Our Mission & Vision

At Kashikari, we transform pineapple leaf waste into sustainable fibers and eco-friendly textiles, promoting circular economy practices, reducing environmental impact, and creating value for farmers through innovation and responsible production.

To become a global leader in sustainable textile innovation by converting agricultural waste into valuable resources and creating “Sustainable Textiles of Tomorrow” for a greener, cleaner, and more responsible future.

Recognised as a Global Innovation Leader

Kashikari is redefining sustainable textiles by transforming pineapple leaf waste into high-value fibers and eco-friendly fabrics for a greener tomorrow.