The Reliance Foundation’s chairperson Nita Ambani launched the first Swadesh store in Hyderabad in the city’s Jubilee Hills district. The store concept is designed to showcase Indian artisan crafts to the world and promote sustainable livelihoods for craftspeople. 

“Swadesh is an ode to Indian art and artisans,” said Nita Ambani at the inauguration event, ET Online reported. “It is wonderful to start our journey of ‘Swadesh’ from Hyderabad. India has a rich history of culture and tradition. So Swadesh is a humble tribute to artisans of India.” 
 
The store’s launch event saw Ambani light a lamp to mark the occasion and meet with master artisans Vijayakumar, Krishnamoorthy Balaraman, Chetan Devidas Shet, Suresh Kumbhare, Nandu Tribhuvan, Kamlesh Jangid, Gajam Yadagiri, and Gowrabathini Ramanaiah, the Reliance Foundation announced on Facebook on November 9. Ambani met with guests including Namrata Shirodkar, PV Sindhu, and Sania Mirza and looked around the new space.  

The large-scale store measures 20,000 square feet and retails handmade products from across India including sarees, ethnic wear, textile products, sculptures, paintings, food, and other heritage goods. Swadesh is an initiative of the Reliance Foundation which is Reliance Industries Limited’s philanthropic arm.