Pashmina's journey from the heights of Ladakh to the hearts of royals is a fascinating one. Back in the 16th century, under Mughal rule, Kashmir became the birthplace of pashmina. The Mughal emperors were enamoured by its sheer beauty, elevating it to a status of regal admiration. As the aesthetics of pashmina spread, even the French monarch Napoleon Bonaparte could not resist its charm. He gifted his wife, Josephine, a pashmina shawl, marking the international debut of this exquisite fabric. Josephine is said to have possessed a collection of hundreds of these timeless shawls.
In Iran, rulers not only wore pashminas but also exchanged them as diplomatic gifts. The intricate artistry and luxurious feel of pashmina became a symbol of prestige within political circles. Closer to home, Maharaja Ranjit Singh adorned his court with hand-embroidered pashmina shawls and fabric, further solidifying its place as a royal treasure.