Bim Bissell No More: The Extraordinary Story Of FabIndia And The Woman Who Created It

Bimla Bissell foundly known as 'Bim' to her friends passed away on January 9, 2025, at 93.  She was the visionary behind the iconic FabIndia brand, transforming traditional Indian textiles into modern, stylish, and globally admired designs.  She was a driving force in preserving India’s artisanal heritage while making it accessible and fashionable.

Fab India took to Instagram to pay homage and mourn her passing. 

“She loved matching everything, from her accessories to her chappals. A spirited promoter and patron of Fabindia ever since her husband, John, brought his vision of working with India’s craftspeople to life”, Fab India wrote.

“She kept that vision alive and believed fiercely in what Fabindia stands for. Her legacy will live on and will continue to inspire us at Fabindia for generations to come” Fab India added further.

The Birth of FabIndia

FabIndia began in 1960 as a home furnishings export company founded by John Bissell, Bim’s husband. Bim played a crucial role in expanding the brand, working with artisans to introduce ethnic clothing, furniture, jewelry, and more. She infused her impeccable sense of style and design into FabIndia’s offerings, blending tradition with modernity.

Reviving India’s Textile Heritage

Long before the concepts of sustainability and textile revival became mainstream, Bim championed India’s traditional crafts. She collaborated with weavers and craftspeople to showcase regional fabrics like Chanderi, Sanganeri, Kutchi, and Banarasi, ensuring their survival and prominence in modern India.

Sashi Tharoor, congress's MP tribute to Bim Bissell, the driving force behind Fab India, for her contributions to making Indian handlooms chic and empowering craftsmen. He credits her for popularizing the brand, with most of his kurtas sourced from her emporia.

Empowering Artisans and Women

Under Bim’s leadership, FabIndia became a platform for thousands of artisans, providing them with income and recognition. She also co-founded Udyogini in 1992, an NGO empowering underprivileged women with the support of Ela Bhatt and funding from the Japanese government and the World Bank.

A Life of Purpose and Impact

Bim’s background in social work and education shaped her vision. As a social secretary to U.S. Ambassadors and later an external affairs officer at the World Bank, she gained the experience that would guide her philanthropic and business efforts.

A Fashionable Legacy

FabIndia’s model of working with artisan communities has become a blueprint for others. Through her work, Bim not only modernized traditional Indian aesthetics but also uplifted countless rural communities. Her contributions continue to inspire and redefine Indian chic for generations to come.