CAYA: An Indian Odyssey

A Project By Charu Mehrotra
This Project will only be funded if USD 10,000 is pledged by Saturday, 14 October 2017 23:59 HKT.
101% Complete
goal USD 10,000
amount raised USD 10,175
backers 38

Overview

Our website is now live!

Shop online at: www.cayahk.com


Hand-stitching. Fair Wages. Happy artisans. Makes for colourful CAYA products.

Our website is now live!

Shop online at: www.cayahk.com

  

CAYA is an eco-lifestyle brand dedicated to promoting hand-made, natural and sustainable clothing and home furnishings. It aims to showcase heritage Indian weaves with a contemporary twist, on a global platform.

The Inspiration?

“I was born and raised in the heart of India and I’ve always been fascinated by its glorious traditions and colorful festivities. I grew up hearing the clatter of sewing machines and banging of carpenters in my mother's small embroidery workshop and I learnt to sift through piles of cloth and point out the finest yarn even before I could do my multiplication tables. I love that world and with CAYA, I hope to share a piece of it with you. You will be taken on an ‘odyssey’ or journey through the very fabric of India, as CAYA aims to promote the local arts and craft from every part of my diverse homeland.”
– Charu Mehrotra, Founder , CAYA

CAYA, pronounced as 'ka-yah' is a Sanskrit term that signifies the vital heat/fire which runs through the entire system - body and soul. For me it represents growth, change, passion, wisdom and skill that all go into the making of the enlightened mind (Buddha).

CAYA’s first collection is a celebration of Pashmina - also known as Cashmere from the northern state of Kashmir. This natural, soulful fibre is hand-woven into fine shawls by skilled artisans who’ve specialized in this art for decades. Every time someone wears a Pashmina, this tradition becomes even more timeless!

Next came ‘The Silk Route’ collection with a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. Versatile and classy, these hand-made pieces can be worn year-round and paired with Indian, Western and fusion wear.

We at CAYA are particularly proud of this collection! It is sourced from a social enterprise in India, that’s dedicated to ethical production of environmentally friendly, quality work with fair wages for their artisans. The emphasis is on hand stitching (kantha) and hand block prints.


These skilled artisans (mainly women) use sustainable materials and traditional methods to make our garments. Our design team helps the artisans adapt the colors and patterns to make them more contemporary. This results in unique and classic designs that has a modern appeal and also helps traditional artisans sustain their craft.

The newly launched ‘Cool Cottons’ collection from northern part of India, which is still a 'work-in-progress' includes hand-block prints and hand-woven thread embroidery on pure cottons and linens. Each reward includes a discount on your next purchase. Something to look forward to.

What is the thread that runs across the CAYA brand? For one, its products that are all about style and substance - high quality, natural fibers made in classic and unique designs and long-lasting home-ware. Equally important are the artisans who make our products and making a positive difference in their lives. Last but not the least, our happy and loyal customers.

In line with our mission to support the local community, 20% of our proceeds from the campaign will go towards setting-up a library in the village from where our signature ‘Silk Collection’ is sourced. We believe that encouraging literacy amongst these women in the villages, makes learning anything else possible for them too. It opens up opportunities for them and they’re much less likely to be exploited.

Another 20% will be used to make CAYA a more sustainable brand as we move to eco-friendly packaging and eliminate all plastic from our packaging.

CAYA has been a part of numerous fairs and bazaars over the last few months so as to meet its customers directly, get feedback, learn from practical experience and serve its customers and the community better.  We would love to get feedback from you to make it more suitable for a global audience. This will help us validate our business idea and help us serve you better.

“We want to ‘fashion’ a better world for everyone involved. This has been our story so far. We’d love you to be a part of it and help stitch a brighter future for our artisans.”
– Charu Mehrotra, Founder, CAYA 

TESTIMONIALS

Tired of the same outfits or looking to jazz up the same old stuff? Look no further!! CAYA is here. With her pure silk reversible jackets and shawls you can add zing to your old outfits. They are soft, comfortable, stylish, very reasonably priced and makes for a great gift. So ladies what are you waiting for? 
Great work Charu!! Wishing Caya a lot of success.
- Suchandra Guha

"I'm so happy with the shawls and vests I've bought from Caya. They are great for accessorizing and fusion wear and the colors are just gorgeous. It's also wonderful to know how they were made and how we are supporting a cause!"
- Menka Pursewaney Amin

"CAYA has been my go-to place ever since I got introduced to their collection, not just for myself but for picking gifts too. I am particularly a fan of their waistcoats as they make a very interesting pairing with western wear for the perfect fusion look. Their newly introduced cushion covers are amazing to, vibrant colors & stones make it ideal for my house. You have your heart at the right place with an eye for all things beautiful... can't wait to see what's next!!"
- Avani Mehrotra Banchawat

"Thanks loads Caya! The jackets are my favorite. You feel noticeably dressed up when you wear one... Be it for a casual lunch or a formal graduation. I wore it for both occasions, I felt special and the style was much appreciated. Each piece is unique in color and pattern. Look forward to owning more."
- Aparna Bubna

"Smart and versatile products. I love adding a touch of glam to my otherwise regular (read: boring) wardrobe by throwing on a Caya jacket or scarf. Love their products for the unique styles and high quality."
- Anita Balagopalan 

Rewards

'Hi Five' Reward - USD 5/HKD 40

  • A virtual thank you: We’ll give you a loud Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page

'Handshake' Reward - USD 15/HKD 120

  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual thank you: We’ll give you a loud Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page

'Join the Club' Reward - USD 50/ HKD 390

  • 1 hand-made Waistcoat from our signature Silk Route Collection
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 30
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Just for Gals' Reward - USD 65/ HKD 510

  • 1 fine wool scarf from our Winter Collection
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 30
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Limited Edition' Reward - USD 80/HKD 620

  • A set of 2 Silk Embroidered Cushion Covers
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number:30
    **You can choose the colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Gal Pals' Reward - USD 100/HKD 780

  • 2 hand-made Waistcoats from our signature Silk Route Collection
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 15
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Winter Special' Reward - USD 105/HKD 820

  • 1 cashmere-blend scarf (with lace or stones) from our Winter collection
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 25
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Signature Series' Reward - USD 110/HKD 850

  • 1 hand-made Fusion Cloak from our signature Silk Route Collection
  • 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 25
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Premium Series' Reward - USD 160/HKD 1250

  • 1 Silk Overcoat from our signature Silk Route Collection + 1 hand-made Scarf from our signature Silk Route Collection
  • Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
  • 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 25
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Collector Gift Pack' Reward - USD 240/HKD 1875

  • Silk Rewards of 'Join the Club', 'Limited Edition' and 'Signature Series' (1 waistcoat, 2 cushion covers, 1 fusion cloak)
  • Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
  • 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number: 20
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

'Turn designer' Reward - USD 415/HKD 3245

  • A unique opportunity to turn into a Designer. Our local designer will work closely with you to come up with a limited-edition Silk Jacket and you will be the proud owner of the first one. It will be listed on our website and all marketing material and labelling will carry your name.
  • Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
  • 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
  • A virtual Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number:4
    **This reward is available only in Hong Kong

'Angel Sponsor' Reward - USD 1000/HKD 7820

  • Any 5 products of your choice across collections.
  • Your Name & Picture will feature on our website
  • A personalized thankyou card from the first users of the library in India.
  • Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
  • 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
  • A virtual Thank You shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page
    Number:6
    **You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia

*Our “Silk Route Collection” is hand-made and unique. There may be slight variation in colour, pattern structure and stitching when compared with the pictures.

FAQs

When will I receive the reward?

The campaign will run till mid October. We are targeting to get the first batch across to you before end of December and the second batch (if any) by January. Ofcourse, we will be working overtime to get those across to you as soon as possible so it could be sooner and we will keep you posted about the progress.

How do I receive my reward?

We will send out a survey to all backers. You can choose the colour, size and other specifications of your reward at this time. We will confirm delivery addresses and any other relevant information through this survey.
You will be receiving the surveys to the email address associated with your Next Chapter account / order.

Tell us more about the library.

The library will be housed in a room which was formerly used as an office space. Fortunately, the structure is already there, hence the project should be finished in a few months. A computer will have to be bought and books purchased. A part-time librarian will also be employed to help for a few hours every day.
While the initial furnishing of the library may possibly be drawn from surplus furniture available within the workshop, some new furniture like bookshelves will have to purchased.

Why should you fund this project?

Every piece at CAYA is unique, fashionable, sustainable, and our ‘Silk Route’ garments are an eco-friendly choice too. By funding this project, you get a unique hand-made piece of clothing at an attractive price while supporting local artisans from India.

For any questions or feedback please feel free to get in touch at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you.

No updates yet

'Handshake' Reward

USD 15

• A hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.

• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.             

• A virtual Thank You: Thanks for cheering us up. We’ll give you a loud 'Thank You' shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page. 

Est.Delivery on 15 October, 2017

Unlimited amount

Backers: 0

'Join the Club' Reward

USD 50

• 1 hand-made Waistcoat from our signature Silk Route Collection.
• A hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.


**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number: 30

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 30

Backers: 0

'Hi Five' Reward

USD 5

A virtual Thank You: Thanks for cheering us up. We’ll give you a loud 'Thank You' shout out on our Facebook and Instagram page.

Est.Delivery on 15 October, 2017

Unlimited amount

Backers: 0

'Just for Gals' Reward

USD 65

•  1 fine wool scarf from our Winter Collection
•  10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
•  1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
•  A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page

**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia. Number: 30

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 30

Backers: 0

'Limited Edition' Reward

USD 80

• A set of 2 Silk Embroidered Cushion Covers.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the colours from our catalog  after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number:30

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 30

Backers: 0

'Gal Pals' Reward

USD 100

• 2 hand-made Waistcoats from our signature Silk Route Collection.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog  after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number: 15

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 15

Backers: 0

'Winter Special' Reward

USD 105

• 1 cashmere-blend scarf (with lace or stones) from our Winter collection
• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months
• 1 hand-painted cloth tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page

**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and nominal shipping in other parts of Asia. Number: 25

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 25

Backers: 0

'Signature Series' Reward

USD 110

• 1 hand-made Fusion Cloak from our signature Silk Route Collection.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• 10% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number: 25

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 25

Backers: 0

'Premium Series' Reward

USD 160

• 1 Silk Overcoat from our signature Silk Route Collection + 1 hand-made Scarf from our signature Silk Route Collection.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
• 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number: 25
 

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 25

Backers: 0

'Collector Gift Pack' Reward

USD 240

• Silk Rewards of 'Join the Club', 'Limited Edition' and 'Signature Series' (waistcoat, cushion cover, cloak)
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
• 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number:20

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 20

Backers: 0

'Turn Designer' Reward

USD 415

• A unique opportunity to turn into a Designer. Our local designer will work closely with you to come up with a limited-edition 'Silk Jacket' and you will be the proud owner of the first one. It will be listed on our website and all marketing material and labeling will carry your name.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
• 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. This reward in available only in Hong Kong. Number:4
 

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 3

Backers: 1

'Angel Sponsor' Reward

USD 1,000

• Any 5 products of your choice across collections.
• Your Name & Picture will feature on our website.
• A hand-painted tote bag, a precursor to our eco-friendly packaging.
• A personalized thank you card from the first users of the library in India.
• Exclusive access to our next collection a week before we launch it.
• 15% off the next purchase in the next 6 months.
• A virtual Thank You on our Facebook and Instagram page.
**You can choose the size and colours from our catalog after the campaign closes. Free shipping within Hong Kong and very nominal shipping within Asia. Number:6
 

Est.Delivery on 15 December, 2017

Quantity 6

Backers: 0