This lifestyle store in Goa supports traditional craftsmen

In a quaint Indo-Portuguese house in Parra, Goa, is Siroi, a lifestyle store that offers a versatile range of items, from home décor, dinnerware, clothes to accessories and furniture.

“Siroi” is taken from the Siroi lily, the state flower of Manipur, a gently beautiful but endangered flower. The name symbolises something rare.

The lifestyle store, just like the flower, has a uniquely curated collection of artefacts from around the world. There are treasures from Mexico and Kenya as well – each as uncommon and special as the flower.

Siroi, the brainchild of Sapna Kabra, a lifestyle consultant and art lover. The first physical store opened in April 2022.

She says, “I’ve always been inspired by the diversity of Indian craftsmanship. Through my travels, I noticed many beautiful works by artisans that often go unappreciated. That’s what led me to create Siroi—an intimate space where and contemporary art can find a home in modern settings.”

TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP: Sapna's journey working with traditional craftsmen began during her days as a fashion designer.

Passionate about preserving Indian craftsmanship, Sapna says, “I believe in showcasing the incredible diversity of art from across India, giving artisans the platform they deserve.”

This appreciation of traditional art forms developed from her days the Sapna Kabra Art Studio in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Here she began as a designer, partnering with artisans all across India.

SUSTAINABILITY ABOVE ALL: Products fashioned out of recyclable material are available at Siroi.

“This early experience deepened my passion for promoting and preserving their incredible talents, says Sapna. Her goal is to keep these these traditional art forms alive by showcasing them to a wider audience.

In this endeavour, she makes it a point to connect with Indian rural artisans personally, carefully selecting that have something unusual to contribute.

Sapna KabraOur carefully curated pieces are crafted by skilled artisans and weavers from Shantiniketan, alongside talented artists from across India, each reflecting the rich heritage and creativity of its maker while promoting sustainability through traditional, handcrafted methods.

“It’s important for me to ensure that their work represents the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it suitable for contemporary homes,” Sapna says.

With a penchant for working with talent that is outstanding, Sapna has collaborated an artisan who upcycles tin into beautiful garden accessories

IN VIVID COLOUR: The clothes at Siroi are charmingly vibrant.

She says, “It’s hard to even tell that these pieces are made from recycled tin! They are not only visually stunning but also highly efficient and perfect for outdoor spaces, blending art with sustainability in a wonderful way.”

Siroi is completely focused on sustainability is at the heart of Siroi. The lifestyle store, boasts of products made from materials like antique wood for furniture and recycled tin.

In addition to reducing the burden on resources and landfills these lovely items lend an artistic, old-world charm to Siroi’s collections.

“Our carefully curated pieces are crafted by skilled artisans and weavers from Shantiniketan, alongside talented artists from across India, each reflecting the rich heritage and creativity of its maker while promoting sustainability through traditional, handcrafted methods,” says Sapna.

Siroi has hosted a number of . Most of them are directed towards inspiring and developing creativity in people of all ages.

There have been workshops on ceramic work, magic, , chibori, stained glass, etc. Exposure to this variety of art forms is meant to act as a stimulus to thinking outside the box.

The cosy café, which allows guests to sit and enjoy the calm, artistic ambience, has a menu of Goan favourites, such as Goan bhaji pav, Goan poi sandwich, mushroom xacuti and other delicacies.

Siroi is completely focused on sustainability is at the heart of Siroi. The lifestyle store, boasts of products made from upcycled materials like antique wood for furniture and recycled tin.

Sapna says, “It’s designed to complement the artistic atmosphere of the store, creating a space where people can connect over art, design and good food.”

Sapna envisions Siroi developing as a centre for lovers and design enthusiasts to converge, on a local level as well as on an international level.

“We aim to continue supporting small artisans, giving them a platform to showcase their work, while also making Siroi a must-visit destination for those who appreciate craftsmanship and sustainability,” she says.

DETAILS

LOCATION: Siroi, House No 80, Next to Ganesh Temple, Sateri Nagar Colony, Parra, North Goa

WEBSITE: https://siroigoa.com/