The Foundation: Chanakya International
Before JADE by MK, there was Chanakya. Founded over four decades ago, Chanakya International became one of India’s most respected embroidery ateliers, working with leading global luxury houses and setting benchmarks for technical excellence. Here, embroidery was never treated as surface decoration. It was studied, engineered, and elevated into a discipline. This philosophy laid the foundation for a new way of understanding Indian craft on the global stage.
JADE by MK is born
Monica Shah and Karishma Swali co-founded JADE by MK, building upon Chanakya’s foundation while creating an independent design voice rooted in Indian craft and contemporary expression. JADE by MK emerges as a house where textile is not the background—it is the protagonist. The brand resides in its first home at a small boutique on Peddar Road, Mumbai.
Chankaya School of Craft
Recognising a compelling need to institutionalise craft and implement holistic solutions for socio-economic and environmental issues, Monica & Karishma established the Chanakya School of Craft–a non-profit school and foundation dedicated to craft, culture and creating new autonomy for women. The curriculum teaches over 300 hand embroidery techniques and has taught over 1000 women to-date. They pursue projects across wide disciplines, collaborating with artists such as Judy Chicago, Manu Parekh and Madhvi Parekh, fashion houses such as Dior and non-profit organisations such as the Jai Vakeel Foundation, to spread the message of inclusivity and excellence in craft.
Tone on Tone - Nayanthara Reddy in Signature JADE Red
Nayanthara Reddy wore a tone on tone bridal ensemble–a perfect marriage between tradition and individuality. Drawing inspiration from the majestic temples of Hoysala as an homage to her roots, we combined a contemporary look with glamour to come together with timeless elegance. JADE by MK spent years building its contrarian design language of tone on tone bridal and Indian wear, and this was its ultimate moment of recognition.
The Grassroot Artisans Project & Legacy of Deft Hands, CSMVS Show
To formalise its commitment to craft communities, on its 15th Anniversary JADE by MK launches the Grassroot Artisans Project—a structured initiative to preserve, elevate, and sustain traditional techniques by integrating them into contemporary design. Grassroot Artisans Project creates long-term collaborations with artisan communities across India—including Kantha in West Bengal, Soof in Gujarat, Bandhani in Bhuj, Pochampally Ikat in Telangana, South Silk weavers in Salem, Batik clusters, Pattu shawl makers in Barmer, and more. The focus is not on trend-driven production. It is the continuity of skill, fair practice, and creative evolution.
JADE by MK hosted its most iconic and landmark show ‘A Legacy of Deft Hands’ at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in honour of the textile gallery and the brand’s rich textile legacy. Every detail reflected the evolving spirit of the contemporary bride while staying deeply connected to artisanal craftsmanship. Closing the showcase was Mira Kapoor in a custom powder blue lehenga, intricately handcrafted for the occasion.
City Palace, Jaipur Show & A Bride’s Reverie, Travancore House, New Delhi
Drawing from the success of its show in Mumbai, A Legacy of Deft Hands was then presented at the iconic City Palace in Jaipur.
Following which JADE presented at the historic Travancore House in New Delhi, A Bride’s Reverie was envisioned as an intimate reflection on the emotional journey of a bride. Inspired by Monica Shah’s own memories and nostalgia surrounding weddings, the collection explored themes of self-expression, self-love and individuality through intricate embroideries, handcrafted weaves and contemporary silhouettes.
Nitanshi Goel At Cannes & New Delhi Flagship
The Grassroot Artisans Project receives a prestigious recognition, acknowledging JADE by MK’s contribution to sustaining craft and empowering artisans across India. Simultaneously, JADE by MK gained recognition on an International stage as one of the 10 most viewed looks worldwide as seen on Nitanshi Goel.
JADE by MK opens its doors in Ambawatta One, Mehrauli marking its 4th store in India. The brand has now built homes for itself across Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad.
The Historic Wedding Looks
JADE makes the iconic no-fabric kasab-lehenga, constructed entirely of metallic threads taking over more than 15,000 hours for Shweana Poy Raiturcar. The lehenga quickly gains attention for the level of craft intelligence and craftsmanship required to bring the piece to life. For their special day Rashmika Mandanna & Vijay Deverakonda wore custom JADE outfits for their reception rooted in their heritage and legacy, the looks contained the the Gandaberunda emblem for Rashmika and Gaja-Kesari motif for Vijay embroidered in pure silver and gold taar.
Mumbai Flagship Store & A Legacy in Motion
A new chapter—a store conceived as a sanctuary of craft, designed as a concept store having experiential architecture where visitors live the brand’s philosophy, from library and café to wearable art, immersive installations, and layers of Bombay’s history.
JADE by MK continues to innovate across couture, ready-to-wear, jewellery, storytelling, and experiential spaces. The label remains deeply committed to its foundational idea: that craft is living, evolving, and deserves visibility, continuity, and reverence.
