Mrunalini Rao’s Story of Art & Legacy

"Create heirlooms, not trends" – this philosophy guides Mrunalini Rao's design approach.

Founded in 2014, Mrunalini Rao is a label that celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and timeless elegance. Based in Hyderabad, the brand tells a story of confidence and artistry through lustrous silks, dramatic silhouettes, and intricate embroidery. With a philosophy rooted in handcrafted excellence, every piece is created with the intent of lasting beyond fleeting trends.

Mrunalini’s journey into fashion was one of courage and determination. Choosing design over medicine, she graduated as a gold medalist from NIFT and refined her craft at leading design houses before launching her own label. What began as a passion for creating beautiful clothing soon evolved into a vision—to craft heirlooms, not trends. The label embraces a slow, thoughtful approach to fashion, where every design is meticulously handcrafted from a blank canvas to a finished masterpiece.

At the heart of the brand lies its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Each piece is brought to life by skilled artisans, preserving embroidery techniques like zardozi, resham, dori, appliqué, and reverse appliqué, which have been perfected over generations. Mrunalini believes that true luxury lies in the human touch—in the precision of every stitch and the intricacy of every pattern. Her designs seamlessly weave traditional Indian artistry with contemporary aesthetics, reimagining age-old motifs like paisleys and architectural tessellations into modern silhouettes.

While the label is deeply rooted in heritage, Mrunalini’s sister brand, Urī Living, is an extension of her commitment to thoughtfully crafted fashion. Urī focuses on everyday wear, creating versatile and effortless designs that cater to women across generations—from a young girl to a mother. It embraces mindful craftsmanship, offering clothing that is timeless rather than fast fashion and remains relevant beyond seasons.

The brand’s flagship stores in Hyderabad and Delhi (Ambawatta One & DLF Emporio) are an extension of its philosophy. Designed with colonial architecture, antique elements, and an all-white aesthetic, each store feels like home—a warm and intimate space where craftsmanship takes center stage. Every corner narrates a story, taking you through Mrunalini’s journey at every step. The art on the walls, the frames, and the intricate details all echo the label’s legacy. The design collection is what brings all the color to the store, creating a seamless blend of tradition and modernity.

Over the years, Mrunalini Rao has carved a distinct identity in the fashion landscape. Her collections have been showcased at Indian fashion weeks like Lakmé Fashion Week, and the brand has expanded its reach through renowned multi-designer stores and global platforms. Yet, at its core, the essence remains unchanged—to create designs that carry a piece of home, tradition, and artistry wherever they go.

Mrunalini Rao –

Instagram - @mrunalinirao
Website – www.mrunalinirao.com

Urī Living –

Instagram - @uri.india
Website – www.uriliving.com