Stitching Dreams: How Rohini Kummitha Transformed Her Life Through Fashion

Austin Indian Women In Business
1 day ago
4 min read

As the curator of AIWB's HerStoryBegins series, I am honored to spotlight Rohini Kummitha, an engineer-turned-artist and the visionary founder of Million Raagas LLC. Her journey is one of creativity, courage, and cultural celebration—an inspiring story of how one woman transformed her passion for Indian textiles and art into a brand that redefines ethnic fashion for global audiences.

Rohini Kummitha: A Journey from Engineer to Artist

"I decided to leap into the creative world."

Rohini Kummitha is an engineer turned artist and founder of Million Raagas, a fashion brand that merges Indian heritage with contemporary design. Her transition from a stable career in software engineering to the uncertain realm of art and design is a testament to her passion for creativity. Despite initial hesitations from family, Rohini felt compelled to follow her inner calling, emphasizing the importance of trusting one's instincts.

She highlights that entrepreneurship can be an isolating journey and advises aspiring entrepreneurs to surround themselves with a supportive network and mentors who can uplift them on their path.

The Essence of Million Raagas

"Million Raagas isn't just about clothes for me; it's about identity and the impact knowing that our work empowers rural artisans."

Rohini's brand, Million Raagas, aims to make culturally rich and ethically crafted fashion more accessible while championing the skills of rural artisans back in India. Her designs reflect Indian heritage reimagined in modern ways that resonate with today's generation, particularly those living outside India who seek to maintain a connection to their roots.

Million Raagas emphasizes slow fashion, ensuring that each piece is thoughtfully designed and ethically produced, which stands in contrast to the mass-produced clothing prevalent in the market.

The brand also addresses the specific needs of average Indian women, focusing on flattering fits and coordinated ensembles for families, thereby providing a unique offering in the market.

Overcoming Challenges in the Fashion Industry

"My why kept me going; I truly believe in what I'm building."

Rohini details the challenges she faced when starting her fashion brand in a new country, particularly managing the logistics of manufacturing in India while maintaining operations in the US. Despite these hurdles, her strong belief in the mission of Million Raagas motivated her to persist.

She also confronts the issue of high prices in designer clothing and the lack of fitting options, positioning her brand as a solution to these problems by providing well-fitted, ethically made garments that cater to the aesthetics and desires of modern consumers.

The Emotional Impact of Fashion

"Customers love it when they feel how the outfit made them feel seen."

The connection between customers and their outfits goes beyond aesthetics; it significantly impacts their self-perception and confidence. When clients express that they finally found clothes that resonate with their identity, those moments become invaluable for designers.

This emotional satisfaction underscores the importance of creating pieces that not only look good but also empower individuals by making them feel recognized and understood.

The Design Process and Its Thrill

"What excites you the most is the colors, the textures, and everything of it — the ideation part is the most exciting."

The journey from concept to creation in fashion design is thrilling, particularly during the ideation phase. Designers are drawn to the colors and textures they choose, and this creative process is pivotal in bringing an outfit to life.

A significant highlight is witnessing the transformation from a design on paper to a tangible product that can be photographed and showcased. It’s during the fashion shoot that the designs gain a new life and narrative.

The Importance of Customer Experience

"When someone buys it and actually puts it on, it makes them feel beautiful."

The transition from concept to customer approval is crucial. Once an outfit is worn, its ability to make someone feel beautiful reinforces the designer's purpose. Customer satisfaction is a major motivational factor, driving creativity and connection in the business.

Fashion serves as a form of storytelling, where each piece embodies personal narratives and cultural heritage, especially when it reflects one's roots.

Advice for Aspiring Designers

"Trust your inner voice; start with what you have." - For those looking to enter the fashion industry, the key advice is to trust oneself and take action without waiting for the perfect moment. Starting with available resources and experiences is crucial for growth.

Many aspiring artists delay their launch, waiting for everything to be flawless, but this can hinder potential growth. Early presence, even if imperfect, is beneficial for learning and adapting, ultimately contributing to a brand's authenticity and strength.

Building a Supportive Network

"Surround yourself with mentors and network with other women who can lift you up."Entrepreneurship can feel isolating; hence, creating a network of supportive mentors and fellow women entrepreneurs can greatly enhance the experience. This support system can offer understanding, encouragement, and opportunities for collaboration.

Acknowledging that the path to success often involves evolution rather than a straight line is essential. Staying true to one's purpose can guide during challenging times, ensuring that the heart and intention behind the work remain central.

Her favorite quote by Lao Tzu captures her essence beautifully: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

Million Raagas: Not Just a Brand, But a Movement. Million Raagas is more than a fashion label. It is a celebration of cultural identity, ethical craftsmanship, and feminine resilience. Every thread tells a story of tradition, transformation, and the power of dreams.