Saumya Thirimadura, the multi faceted entrepreneur for linen clothing has created a niche in the competitive field of business. Her eclective designs are inspired by her own experience and emulate her love for all things fashion. Today she she is known for her innovative and diverse fashion designs and colours

by Zanita Careem

Saumya Thirimadura – is the brain behind two fashionable brands namely Guru and Upekha. These two brands of fashionable clothing for men and women are made out of linen This material is comfortable, chic and sophisticated, and suits our weather. I was first introduced to the brand after sporting one of her dresses at the CAN market at the Colombo City Centre held by the small entrepreneurs.

What does Guru and Upekha stand for?

These are two brands are made out of linen. Guru encompasses men’s line, linen shirts, T shirts,trussers and underwear clothing and whilst Upekha stands for ladies dresses and pants.

When did you first know you would wanted to be an entrepreneur and whats the point that really made you go for it?

I have always known I wanted to do something of my own. From my young days I was dabbling in fashion making clothes for my friends and relatives. There is no force more powerful that a woman who is determined to rise. Glass ceilings, patriarchy, gender pay gap, sexiest workplace policies and male privileged. Many challenges dot a woman’s path to success but many of them like me have taken the the challenge.

When were you interested in starting a business?

I was always wanted to dabble in patterns, materials and fashion. From my school days I was interested i making clothes for friends and relatives. Glass ceilings, patriarchy, gender pay gap,sexiest workplace policies and male privileges. Many challenges dot a woman’s path to success but many have taken the mantle of to power and succeeded against all odds. Anything is possible with hard work, passion and persistence.

How difficult is it for a woman to start a business?

It is a long struggle. Somehow our society still at large believes that a married girl should stay at home, take care of the family. This circle will continue if she does not stand for herself and her vision for life. This environment certainly set the groundwork for wanting me to be an an entrepreneur and having the confidence to take a risk and do it. For years I was waiting for the right ideas to strike me that I would have enough passion to pursue, through good and bad.

What is the inspiration behind Guru and Upekha?

The collection was inspired by the people around me.

The women whom I met were poised, confident and had a strong sense of style. I always believed less is more and quality over quantity

I wanted to create something that reflects those values in my contemporary styles. Something that we could all wear, appreciate and stand the test of time

What’s the best and the hardest part about having your own clothing line?

The best part about having my own clothing line is working for myself. The hardest part about having my own clothing line is working for myself. I am my own boss, design my collection and develop the brand to my liking. I have two sisters who helps me to run my business. They are my confidants and I consult them whenever it is necessary.

I’m sure every day is different but is there one thing you do that helps you maintain a routine?

I get up early and plan my day. I create my own designs when I go to steep. The colour structure the designs of the outfits are all created on my mind. I take inspiration from my life experience, places I have visited, people I have met along the way.

What I started small became an obsession and turned into a big venture. Soon I realised I was creating fashionable clothing with a combination of design, quality and aesthetic that couldn’t be found anywhere else. I never dreamed I would have my own clothing line and my business venture will be successful. Now I had just about everything in place to do so. So I took a big leap, and here I am.

What are your biggest challenges?

The biggest challenges are funding, and time management. Expressing my creativity through my designs, working with my hands to create beautiful garments and engaging with my amazing, thoughtful customers are so fulfilling. I am happy to get to spend my time in a way that is fulfilling to me personally while also doing my part to make the world of fashion more ethical and transparent

What have been your key learnings.

The best advice is never give up

no matter the situation.

What are you plans for growth

I wanted the label to sell all over the world. It should be a fashionable brand, customers are all excited about.

Q: What is something about having a life as an entrepreneur that most people wouldn’t expect?

Being a designer and an entrepreneur is not that glamorous and it involves hard work. I think a lot of people have the notion that being a designer is all fun and smooth

But there’s also marketing accounting, product development the list is endless. It’s never just one thing and it’s a constant juggling act.

What is your final motto?

For me failure is not actually a failure but an opportunity to grow

.Email saumyakumar252@gmail.com

Pix by Darmasena Welipitiya