Bimla Bissell, Fabindia matriarch and pioneer of Indian crafts, passes away at 93
13 January 2025, Mumbai
Bimla ‘Bim’ Bissell, co-founder of Fabindia and a champion of Indian handlooms and crafts, passed away on January 9 at the age of 93. A vibrant force in India’s retail and craft revival movement, she dedicated her life to preserving traditional artistry and empowering artisans across the country.
Born into a family known for its hospitality in pre-independence Punjab, Bim married American businessman John Bissell in 1963, three years after he founded Fabindia. Initially focused on exporting Indian furnishings, the brand grew into a lifestyle phenomenon under their guidance, celebrating handwoven and handprinted textiles.
Bim balanced her role at Fabindia with philanthropy, founding a nursery school in Delhi and supporting numerous social causes. Known for her elegance, warmth, and wit, she was an omnipresent figure at cultural and artistic events well into her 90s.
Tributes from luminaries like designer Ritu Kumar and craft activist Laila Tyabji highlight her unwavering commitment to Indian crafts and her generosity of spirit. Fabindia described her life as ‘a tapestry like none other,’ reflecting her immense contributions to India's cultural and retail landscapes.
Bim Bissell leaves behind a legacy of grace, innovation, and a deep love for India’s artistic heritage.
