Kala Curry Radio at New Leaf's Studio

From school gifts to a purpose-driven brand, Anjali’s journey is stitched with meaning. New Leaf honors Indian heritage through handcrafted Lippan art products that speak of culture, craft, and connection.

1. Tell us a little about yourself—who you are, what you do, and how art became a part of your journey.

I’m Anjali Kanodia Saraf, the founder of New Leaf —brand that celebrate Indian heritage through handmade bags adorned with traditional art. Art entered my life when I began crafting personalized gifts during school—infusing meaning into every design. Over time, that passion evolved into a purpose-driven business rooted in preserving heritage crafts.

2. Art isn’t just something we see—it’s something we live with. How does art seep into your daily life? And what does art mean to you?

Art is woven into my everyday—from sketching designs and choosing materials, to envisioning the harmony of color and texture. To me, art is connection—it bridges culture, conversation, and community, turning everyday objects into stories we carry.

3. Why do you think handcrafted art matters today more than ever?

In an era of mass production, handcrafted art stands as a beacon of authenticity. Consumers now seek meaningful, eco-conscious goods that tell a story and celebrate craftsmanship. Indian handicrafts—like blue pottery, Lippan, mandala art—are gaining global appreciation for these very qualities

4. How many years have you been practicing this craft?

For every collection , there is a different art form we work on . I’ve dedicated around 2 years to perfecting Lippan art.  We have been working with art from 8 years now .

5. What makes an artist an artist? (like who can call themselves an artist/what counts as being an artist)

An artist is someone who creates with intention, channeling identity and emotion into their work, whether naturally gifted or diligently trained. It’s the depth of vision, authenticity, and passion in their creations that truly defines artistry.

6. What does being an artist/brand that sells art mean to you? 

It means carrying a legacy forward—protecting cultural traditions, uplifting artisans, and innovating responsibly. It’s about transforming heritage crafts into purposeful, functional art that resonates with modern aesthetics.

7. How long does it usually take to create one piece from start to finish?

A standard Lippan Art bag takes 2–3 days from design to final stitching. Bespoke or intricate orders may require up to a week, depending on complexity.

8. What drew you to the medium(s) you work with?

The tactile charm of mud and mirrorwork, the meditative symmetry of mandalas, and the raw authenticity of traditional crafts captivated me early on. I saw an opportunity to transform these artforms into everyday accessories.

9. How do you see art products being perceived in an Indian market?

Indian consumers are gravitating toward artisan-made products—seeking authenticity, sustainability, and meaning. What was once niche is now mainstream: handcrafted goods are regarded as culturally rich, ethically made, and stylish .

10. Mass manufactured goods have captured the hearts and minds of consumers today. What do you believe makes handcrafted accessories relevant, and why should consumers consider making that conscious switch?

Handcrafted products are personal, durable, eco-friendly, and carry heritage value. They honor the maker and preserve livelihoods. Conscious consumers are recognizing this, and investing accordingly .

11. Your brand stands on how enormously proud you are to be Made in India, featuring designs like lippan and mandala art. How do you ensure to strike a balance between these traditional Indian techniques and modern sensibilities? 

We honor tradition by using authentic Lippan, mandala, and mirrorwork, while packaging these ancestral crafts into modern silhouettes—sling bags, totes, potlis—with contemporary colors and functional features.

12. Your journey began with making handcrafted gifts for your loved ones in school. How has your personal relationship with art and craft evolved since then, and how does it continue to shape design at New Leaf today?

What began as heartfelt DIY gifts in school has matured into a mission: making heritage crafts accessible and relevant, while addressing scale, quality, and storytelling through New Leaf designs.

13. Handcrafting plays a significant role at New Leaf. However, this industry embodies various complications in its organisation and procurement. What were some of the challenges that you faced while building the brand?

Scaling handcrafted production meant overcoming artisan coordination, sourcing quality materials, ensuring consistency, and educating consumers on the value and pricing of handmade goods. Despite these challenges, connecting customers to the stories behind each piece keeps us motivated.

Obsessed already? Same. Shop New Leaf art and bring a piece of their world home on Kala Curry.