Nikita Bansal’s journey in design began in Assam, where indigenous materials like bamboo and cane sparked her creative imagination. Her exceptional talent was recognized early when she received a gold medal from President APJ Abdul Kalam for her academic achievements at NIFT Bangalore, where she specialized in Lifestyle Accessory Design. Bansal is the recipient of the IT 2020 award in the hanging lamp category.
With over two decades of industry experience, Nikita Bansal has served as an Empanelled Designer for the Government of India and worked with prominent domestic brands gaining expertise in design, manufacturing, and retail operations, and engaging with prominent international brands through global exports. Discovering her true calling in blending sustainability and craft with modern design, she established her eponymous label, ‘Yaahvi’.
The name ‘Yaahvi,’ meaning the confluence of heaven and earth, perfectly encapsulates the brand’s philosophy. It represents the harmonious merger of craft and design, traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, and sustainability with innovation. The brand draws inspiration from rich artistic heritage while maintaining a forward-thinking, minimalist approach to design.
Through Yaahvi, Bansal continues to champion the cause of sustainable design while elevating Indian craftsmanship to global standards. Her work demonstrates how traditional artisanry can be reimagined for contemporary markets while preserving its cultural integrity.
In a candid conversation as part of DTalks, Bansal expresses her thoughts on her journey and shares her insights about the design process.
Q. How would you describe your signature design aesthetic, and how has it evolved while working in India?
Nikita Bansal: At Yaahvi, my focus is on contemporary Indian crafts, blending traditional artistry with modern design. I aim to create pieces that resonate globally while staying true to India’s rich heritage, ensuring that every design embodies the essence of India in a way that feels timeless and universally appealing.
Q. What influences and inspires your current work? Could you share some movements, designers, or elements of Indian culture that have shaped your practice?
Nikita Bansal: Growing up in Assam, I was deeply influenced by the region’s bamboo and cane work, which sparked my passion for design. After deciding to pursue design as a career, I worked with the Government of India, travelling across the country. This journey exposed me to the various crafts all around the country which have profoundly shaped my practice. These diverse regional influences continue to inspire my work, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
Q. Could you walk us through your creative process? How do you move from the initial concept to the final execution?
Nikita Bansal: My creative process begins with a story. Every design I create is rooted in a narrative that I want to share with the world. I start with extensive research, exploring the trends and current market needs while also looking back at timeless influences. From there, I build mood boards that visually capture the essence of the idea. Once I’ve defined the concept, I focus on materials, ensuring they align with both the aesthetic and functionality of the design. It’s a blend of creativity, practicality, and storytelling that guides me from concept to final execution.
Q. Your work often involves collaborations with artisans and other creatives. What draws you to these partnerships, and how do these collaborations enrich your design practice?
Nikita Bansal: For me, collaborations with artisans and other creatives are symbiotic relationships. The artisans are truly the heart of my designs; their skill, passion, and craftsmanship bring the vision to life. I want to create designs that not only have global appeal but also enrich Indian design and uplift the local artisans. These partnerships allow me to fuse traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics, ensuring that our grassroots-level creations are recognized and respected worldwide while empowering the artisans and preserving their invaluable craft.
Q. Looking back at your portfolio, which project represents a significant turning point in your career, and among your recent works, what project are you most proud of and why?
Nikita Bansal: My first collection, Horizon, holds a special place in my heart. Horizon collection represents the acceptance of life’s transient nature and the continuous journey of discovery and change. Made entirely of metal and glass, it was my attempt to bring my vision into reality. This collection is deeply personal to me, as it marked the beginning of my design journey. What makes it even more special is the incredible response I’ve received from my peers. Their appreciation and support have been truly heartwarming, making the success of Horizon not just a professional milestone, but a deeply emotional and rewarding experience.
One of my proudest pieces is the Notto Chandelier from my Horizon collection. It holds a special place in my heart, as it vividly depicts the story of moonlight reflecting on water. The design captures that ethereal beauty and tranquillity, transforming it into a visual experience. What makes it truly special is not just the story behind it, but how the piece turned out—its intricate details and the way light plays off its surfaces perfectly evoke the delicate dance of moonlight and water. It’s a piece that feels both timeless and magical, and seeing it come to life was incredibly rewarding.
Q. What unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered as an emerging designer in the Indian design industry, and how are you working to overcome these obstacles?
Nikita Bansal: Designing in the Indian context presents both unique challenges and incredible opportunities. One of the biggest challenges is encouraging artisans to step outside their comfort zones and realize their potential. For example, in my Notto Floor Lamp, I worked with an artisan whom I had to push to experiment with new techniques and create the glass used in my design. This challenge became an opportunity to expand his horizons and unlock his creative potential. For me, it’s about pushing both myself and the artisans to reach new heights, blending tradition with global appeal.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is the gap between product designing and manufacturing versus marketing and selling them. While crafting the products with artisans in Moradabad is fulfilling, ensuring they reach the right customers and are seen in the right context is an entirely different challenge. To overcome this, I focus on platforms like Fairs like ID and Raw to ensure Yaahvi is visible in spaces that align with our values and peers. We’re continuously learning by doing, refining our approach, and scaling to reach the right audience in the right way.
Q. Do you approach sustainability and eco-friendly practices in your designs, particularly considering India’s traditional wisdom and contemporary environmental challenges?
Nikita Bansal: Sustainability has always been at the heart of Indian craftsmanship. Traditional Indian craft techniques are inherently eco-friendly, as they are often handmade, with no reliance on machines, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. I embrace this wisdom in my designs, ensuring that the processes we use are both sustainable and respectful of the environment. For example, the glass used in my creations is recycled, contributing to waste reduction. Moreover, by supporting handmade crafts, we also create job opportunities, empowering artisans and promoting eco-conscious practices. Through these methods, I aim to honour both our heritage and our planet’s future.
Q. What’s your most exciting recent design or art discovery that’s influencing your current thinking?
Nikita Bansal: During my recent visit to Rajasthan, I had the privilege of exploring Mehrangarh Fort, which left a profound impact on my creative thinking. The intricate use of stained glass on windows, the fine inlay work on the walls, and the delicate stone carvings all gave me a fresh perspective on design. These elements, rich in history and craftsmanship, inspired me to incorporate more architectural influences into my work, blending them with contemporary design. The beauty and precision I witnessed there continue to influence my approach, helping me see new possibilities in traditional craftsmanship.
Q. How do you build visibility and reach out to potential clients – what platforms and strategies have worked best for you?
Nikita Bansal: To build visibility and reach potential clients, we’ve found a combination of strategies works best. Exhibitions and fairs like RAW and ID have been great for connecting with the right customers and positioning our brand in the luxury space. Being present on luxury marketplaces also helps with both visibility and brand positioning. We’ve made sure to have an engaging website and active social media presence to keep our audience engaged. Additionally, physical stores cater to customers who prefer an in-person shopping experience, allowing us to build a stronger connection with them.
Q. From your experience, what are the crucial dos and don’ts for young designers trying to establish themselves in India, and what professional forums or communities would you recommend they join?
Nikita Bansal: From my experience, there are a few crucial dos and don’ts that I would recommend to young designers in India:
Do’s:
- Be original with your design –Design is sensitivity. It’s being sensitive to form, to function, to materials, to techniques, to nature and to craft. Absorb and let your soul express itself, in a different context each time.
- Stay true to yourself – Design what excites you, not just what is trending.
- Be patient – Establishing yourself takes time, so give yourself room to grow and evolve.
- Stay Updated – Stay up to date with what is new happening around the world, and which craft is in trend nowadays.
Don’ts:
- Do not outright copy Western trends –Stay updated about what is happening in the West and around the world but do not copy the designs. Stay original with your ideas and designs.
- Don’t give up – The journey is tough, but consistency and patience pay off.
Forums & Communities:
- LinkedIn – A great platform for connecting with professionals and building your network.
- Design communities – Design India, and India Design Forum (IDF), are excellent forums where you can stay connected with other designers, share ideas, and grow within the design ecosystem.
- Instagram- Be involved and in touch with the product design communities on Instagram and other designers.
Q. As you look ahead, what kind of projects or directions would you like to explore?
Nikita Bansal: Looking ahead, I am excited to explore new, unique opportunities in design and lighting. I’m eager to work on projects that challenge my creativity and allow me to experiment with new concepts. Whether in domestic or international markets, I’m open to designing for diverse spaces, including both residential and commercial environments. I look forward to collaborations that push boundaries and bring fresh perspectives to the world of design, all while maintaining my commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability.
Q. For aspiring designers looking to make their mark in India’s design landscape, what wisdom would you share from your journey?
Nikita Bansal: To aspiring designers in India, my advice is simple: Design is not just a profession; it’s a part of who you are. Don’t look to the West for inspiration when there is a vast treasure trove of Indian heritage, culture, and history waiting to be explored. Strong research is key—dive deep into our rich past, uncovering stories that can shape your designs. A design with a story behind it is what truly resonates. Make sure every creation has meaning, as “story sells.” And always start by preparing a mood board; it helps bring your vision to life and guides you through the design process. Stay true to your roots, and let your designs tell a unique story.
Image Courtesy of Nikita Bansal
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