Be it festive gifts or just daily self-care, Kkanso Living and Nicobar are brands made by and for India.
Given the increasing number of home decor and lifestyle products in the market, it would seem that saturation might have been attained by now. While the pandemic might have hindered the growth of the homeware industry, recent times have seen creators return in full swing.
In a country as vast and diverse as India, with a different festival around the corner at any given point in time though, the need for gift-giving continues to warrant the creation of such products. Additionally, the peddling of ‘self-care’ and ‘treat yourself’ has further enabled consumerism.
While most material needs have remained, what’s changed is the demand for something unique. A cookie-cutter gift just doesn’t have the same impact anymore, with people looking for more homegrown, sustainable, and consciously created items that have a story behind them.
And that’s where newer brands thrive. In recent times, a producer’s focus has shifted from replicating what’s trending in European communities and turned towards understanding the needs of the local audience and catering to that instead. So the next time you’re looking for a gift for someone special, or even something with character for your own space, here are some brands you can consider!
Nicobar
For the team behind Nicobar, it was simply baffling to learn that India didn’t have its own interpretation of a tropical design language. While Japan has Muji and Sweden has Ikea, there’s yet to be a brand that is undeniably Indian in both approach and aesthetic.
So that’s where Nicobar decided to take control. Inspired by the vast coastline of the only country in the world to have an ocean named after it, their products depict the journeys of the nation and its people. Their philosophy is simple, driven not by trends but by the need to create something unique to our culture and heritage, long-lasting, and using natural methods and materials.
While their portfolio encompasses a modern Indian way of living, dressing, and looking at the world, there are some products that still manage to stand out in an impressive line-up. One of which is undoubtedly their Sunrise Laddoo Box.
The chic and versatile laddoo box, while named so, doubles up perfectly for serving chocolates or small cookies as well. A gold-finished stainless steel lid is etched with a motif, replete with a durable wooden base and textured aluminium plate with food-safe lacquer and grooves to keep the laddoos.
Handcrafted in India, the homegrown box comes with a cool candy stripe exterior. Taking things one step further, the brand strives to be sustainable, with its packaging 85% plastic-free. With Diwali fast approaching, here’s a gift that will definitely stand the test of time and judgement.
Kkanso Living
Kkanso Living is another such brand. The homeware brand was created by mother-daughter duo Renu & Rivanjali Mithal. For a family who believes in celebrating every day, the business was born of the need to appreciate the little things. After spending a lot of time creating cosy spaces for themselves, the duo decided to extend their love for all things beautiful.
The range of Kkanso distinguishes itself by taking a de-route from home furnishings that are hyper-designed. Instead, the products celebrate linen, cotton and stoneware in simple Scandinavian forms adapted to Indian households.
Renu’s emotional connection stems from her late father, a stone merchant. The series of products range from cutlery to table linen, extending into slightly more indulgent pieces of vases, cheese platters, coasters and candle stands.
It’s a great addition to your home and makes for even more thoughtful gifts. This festive season, you can pick something for your loved ones from their range of thoughtfully curated products.
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