Our Story
Neem is a women-owned and women led business founded in 2023 by Ashwini Reddi, shaped by a lifelong devotion to artistry, sustainability, and meaningful social change. Rooted in a deep respect for heritage and process, our work begins with what already exists: traditional weaving practices, hand embroidery techniques, block printing, natural fibres, and artisanal methods that have endured through time and reinterprets them through a contemporary lens. At its core, Neem is sustained by an extended family of artisans whose expertise has been cultivated and refined over many generations. Our studio is committed to preserving these time- honored skills, working in close collaboration with artisan communities to ensure their continued relevance and vitality.
Rooted in Indian materiality, our collections are shaped by texture, craftsmanship, and the quiet character of natural materials. Natural fibres, layered textures, block-printed surfaces, and the subtle nuances of hand embroidery are embraced as part of the character of each object. Every collection evolves through research, experimentation, and a careful understanding of how material, technique, and form interact with one another.
In a world shaped by mass-produced and replication, Neem stands for slowness, and the irreplaceable beauty of the handmade, where no machine can replicate the care, precision, and quiet poetry of human hands. We encourage individuals to purchase thoughtfully, choosing well rather than more, with pieces designed to age gracefully as they accompany life’s experiences, from one generation to the next.
Ashwini Reddi
Founder, Creative Head
Ashwini Reddi is a lifestyle entrepreneur based in Philadelphia. An economics and policy graduate from the London School of Economics and Osmania University, she found her true calling in the creative world of design. Her belief is that luxury does not mean high cost but a proper appreciation of design and craftsmanship. Working closely with her team of highly trained and experienced designers, Ashwini infuses a contemporary design aesthetic into India’s well-honed traditional skills. This meshing of these different worlds creates products that discerning people anywhere are proud to own and use.
Ashwini’s vision is to enable thousands of artisans to live with dignity while pursuing their passions and heritage. Besides running Neem, Ashwini is also a founding trustee of SRI Trust, a charitable organization that supports the needs of 1125 school children in 3 government schools in Hyderabad.
Our Studio
Located on scenic Lotus Pond Road in Hyderabad, Neem operates a 12,500 sft studio which is equipped with traditional looms, sewing machines, block printing tables, and tools used by our artisans. This is our design hub from where we coordinate and collaborate with artisanal clusters all over India.