Silk has long been synonymous with luxury, but behind its lustrous sheen lies a story of sacrifice. Traditional silk production often involves boiling silkworm cocoons to extract long, unbroken fibres, killing the pupae inside. That’s where peace silk, or Ahimsa silk, changes the narrative.
Peace silk is produced without harming the silkworm. Instead, the moth is allowed to emerge naturally from its cocoon before the silk is spun, resulting in shorter fibres that create a softer, more matte texture. It’s a slower, more compassionate process that aligns with both ethical and sustainable values.
Among the various types of peace silk, Eri silk, native to Assam and parts of Northeast India, is made from the cocoons of the domesticated Samia ricini silk worm. Unlike other silks, Eri is spun (not reeled), giving it a warm, cotton-like feel perfect for all seasons.
Here are five Indian brands championing this compassionate craft.
1. House of Wandering Silk
House of Wandering Silk is a purpose-driven label reimagining India’s textile traditions through compassion and craftsmanship. Founded in 2011, the brand creates one-of-a-kind, zero-waste textiles and accessories rooted in authenticity, respect, and beauty.
Image Source: wanderingsilk.org
Partnering with over 40 artisan groups across 17 states, most of them women, the label uses techniques such as Kantha, Ajrakh, Shibori, and handloom weaving while ensuring fair pay, dignity, and sustainable livelihoods. Every piece tells a story of culture, skill, and the quiet strength of the women who make it, proving that beauty means little if it doesn’t uplift those behind the craft.
2. Ura Maku
Ura Maku works with naturally dyed Ahimsa silk to craft understated luxury wear that’s artisanal, structured, and timeless. Their jackets, waistcoats, and tailored separates celebrate minimal design with intention. Each piece is made from handwoven peace silk, dyed in earthy hues, creating a dialogue between craft, comfort, and conscience.
Image Source: uramaku.com
3. The Magic Room Mumbai
Founded by Deepa Krishnan, Magic Room is based in Mumbai and brings you handcrafted textiles and saris from across India. The brand’s Eris Silk saris are worth your attention thanks to how minimal yet beautifully crafted they are.
Image Source: Instagram/themagicroommumbai
4. We Are KAL
We Are KAL was born out of a journey to find home-based weavers and natural fibres that don’t harm nature (or silkworms). Their eri silk and handwoven wool are spun by artisans across Ladakh and Assam, creating clothes that last decades, not just seasons. The brand has a line of basics, scarves and home textiles made with eri silk.
Image Source: wearekal.com
5. Erisri Silks
Erisri Silks takes pride in sourcing authentic peace silk. Their handcrafted saris, kurtas, and kaftans highlight the natural sheen of Ahimsa silk without compromising on ethics. The brand works with traditional weaves, creating heirloom-worthy pieces that are as kind as they are exquisite.
Image Source: erisri.com
How to Identify Authentic Peace Silk
When buying peace silk, always look for transparency. Brands should clearly state their sourcing and production processes. Authentic Ahimsa silk feels softer and less glossy than conventional silk, often with a slightly irregular weave that reflects its handmade nature. True peace silk will always tell a story of patience, compassion, and craftsmanship.
Peace silk invites us to rethink what luxury means in a world awakening to empathy and sustainability. As Indian brands embrace this cruelty-free alternative, they’re proving that fashion’s finest stories can be woven without harm and that compassion never goes out of style.