In a world where waste often overshadows wonder, Lakshita undertook an initiative, in collaboration with the Smile Foundation, that served as a reminder that creativity can transform even the smallest leftovers into something extraordinary. What began as an activity to repurpose waste fabric transformed into a reminder that fashion, when guided by empathy, holds the power to change lives. Young girls discovered not just the joy of creating, but also the power to believe in their own potential.
The Smile Foundation, a nationally recognized NGO, has long been a beacon of change, empowering underprivileged children and women through education, healthcare, and livelihood programs across India. With their shared commitment to nurturing potential and creating positive social impact, the collaboration between Lakshita and Smile Foundation became more than an act of giving back; it was a celebration of empathy and empowerment.
A Day of Smiles
The crisp November sun streamed softly through the large windows of the Lakshita Headquarters, casting a golden glow over the room. Tables were nearly set, colourful bits of fabric lay scattered like strokes from a painter’s brush, and the air buzzed with excitement. This wasn’t a regular day at Lakshita. It was a day when fashion met purpose and creativity became a bridge between hearts.
As the girls from the Smile Foundation walked in, their eyes widened with excitement. Bursting with energy and curiosity, they looked around in awe at the swatches of embroidered fabric, sequins, threads, and beads that surrounded them. The Lakshita team greeted them with warm smiles and open arms, ready to spend a day not just making things, but making memories.
The day began on a heart-warming note, with songs and laughter filling the room. The children's voices echoed through the factory as they sang along to cheerful tunes. They also sang “Empathy” - their own anthem of kindness and humanity. The lyrics spoke of the beauty of compassion and the strength that comes from caring for each other - a message that resonated with Lakshita’s own ethos. Just as the brand strives to enrich the lives of women through thoughtful designs, the song reminds everyone that empathy lies at the heart of every meaningful creation.
Once the children settled down, their hands began to move, hesitant at first, but then confident, almost instinctively. Old fabric patches turned into colourful bangles wrapped in thread. Small pieces of lace became journal covers; buttons became embellishments, and mirrors became motifs of joy. The room echoed with laughter, soft chatter, and the occasional joyful exclamation as the children proudly showed off their creations to one another.
Lakshita’s team encouraged the children to embrace the joy of sharing. Every girl was asked to share a strip of fabric with her friend, sparking renewed chatter as they exchanged ideas and colours. Later, when they made bangles, they traded one of their creations with another’s. So, by the end of the day, each girl had a pair - one made by her and one by her friend! It was a simple reminder that creativity, much like kindness, grows richer when shared.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that this was more than just a craft workshop. It was an exercise in empowerment. Each child’s creation carried a part of their spirit, a reflection of their dreams, resilience, and imagination. What began as a pile of scrap fabric was reborn through their touch into something beautiful and meaningful.
As the tables filled with colourful bangles and handcrafted journals, the room transformed into a small gallery of joy. The children walked around, admiring each other's work and offering compliments.
Joining the Lakshita team were Lakshita Kharbanda and Kabir Kharbanda, who spent time interacting with the girls. They shared stories, marvelled at the girls’ creations, and guided them in their projects. Their warmth and enthusiasm ensured that every child felt seen, appreciated, and inspired. The team captured laughter and memories over pizza and juice boxes.
By the end of the day, as the sun began to dip, the chatter slowly quieted down, and the room was filled with an unspoken sense of fulfilment. What had started as an initiative to reuse fabric scraps had evolved into something much more profound - a celebration of creativity, compassion, and empowerment.
For Lakshita, whose every endeavour is rooted in the vision of empowering women, this day was a living reflection of that purpose. Watching the young girls create with confidence and joy reaffirmed the brand’s belief that true empowerment begins when women are given the space to express, imagine, and build something of their own. For the children, the experience was proof that beauty and strength can emerge from even the simplest threads, and that their hands, hearts, and dreams hold the power to create change.
The creations have a journey of their own ahead. On the occasion of Children’s Day, they will be displayed and sold at select Lakshita stores with all proceeds directly supporting the Smile Foundation causes, so more children get access to education, nutrition, and a brighter future. So, when customers pick up one of these handcrafted pieces at Lakshita, they aren't just buying a product; they are buying a story of joy, resilience, and renewal.
And for those moved by this initiative, we invite you to take a step further — attached is a link to Smile Foundation’s page, where you can explore the incredible work they continue to do and, if you wish, make a small contribution towards their noble cause.
Scan the QR Code to Donate
Lakshita’s Thread of Responsibility
For Lakshita, this wasn’t just a CSR activity; it was a heartfelt extension of what the brand stands for. Fashion, after all, isn’t just about clothing. It’s about empowering communities, celebrating creativity, and using art as a medium to make a difference.
At its heart, this initiative was about more than creativity. Throughout the day, the team was moved by the girls’ dreams and ambitions. Many spoke eagerly about becoming doctors or lawyers when they grew up - professions they had always seen as symbols of success. But as the day unfolded, surrounded by fabrics, colours, and design stories, something shifted. By the time they waved their goodbyes, several of them wanted to be fashion designers. It was a moment of quiet pride for the Lakshita team. The day had opened their minds to possibility; it had challenged the stereotype that only conventional careers were meaningful, proving that creative fields are just as meaningful and impactful.
For Lakshita, that realization embodies what empowerment truly means: giving young girls the courage to dream differently, to find their voice, and to believe in their creative potential. Because, as the brand firmly believes, when you empower one child, you empower an entire family. That ripple builds a more compassionate world.
Final Thoughts: A Heartfelt Promise
We are deeply grateful to the Smile Foundation for the opportunity to collaborate on such a wholesome and meaningful celebration of Children’s Day. We truly admire the incredible work they are doing and hope they continue to reach children across the country, giving them the brighter futures they deserve.
As for Lakshita, this is just the beginning. The brand remains committed to continuing such initiatives; to keep creating spaces where art, awareness, and empathy come together.
This initiative has reaffirmed Lakshita’s commitment to responsible fashion, where every stitch tells a story of not just craftsmanship but also compassion.
