The Deep Roots of Nourishment

I often think about nourishment, not just in terms of what we eat, but what truly sustains us. When I visit our artisans in Bagru, I see their hands, weathered by years of skill, still moving with grace and purpose. Their ability to continue a centuries-old craft is a testament to more than just skill; it’s a testament to resilience, to community, and to fundamental well-being. And at the heart of well-being is nourishment.

Every year, from September 1st to 7th, India observes National Nutrition Week. This is more than just a calendar event; it’s a critical moment for our nation to pause and reflect on something incredibly fundamental: how we feed ourselves, our families, and our communities. The theme for 2025, “Eat Right for a Better Life,” resonates deeply with me, not just for the individual, but for the entire fabric of our society.

More Than Just Food: The Essence of “Eat Right for a Better Life”

The 2025 theme goes beyond mere calories. It asks us to consider a holistic approach to nutrition:

• Health and Longevity: This is about understanding that food is medicine, preventing both undernutrition and the growing challenge of lifestyle diseases. It’s about building long-term health, not just for today, but for a lifetime.
• Holistic Wellness: It acknowledges that what we eat profoundly impacts our mental and emotional health. Nourishment is a gentle act of self-care.
• Equity and Sustainability: This is where the deeper questions lie. Can everyone access nutritious food? Does our food support local farmers and our planet? This principle calls us to think about how our choices impact the broader ecosystem.

India’s Journey: Nourishing a Nation, One Step at a Time

Our nation has come a long way since the devastating famines of the past. Initiatives like the Green Revolution and dedicated efforts like POSHAN Abhiyaan have made significant strides, reducing stunting and underweight rates in children. Yet, the journey continues.

Even in 2025, the data shows persistent challenges: high rates of anaemia among women, and the dual burden of undernutrition alongside rising obesity in different pockets of our country. This is not just a health issue; it’s a developmental challenge that impacts every child’s potential, every worker’s productivity, and every family’s well-being.

The SA Fab Ethos: Nourishing Our Communities, From the Ground Up

At SA Fab, we believe in the power of local. Our entire business is built on the principle of strengthening local communities and honouring the hands that create. When we talk about sustainable food systems and healthy eating habits, I see a direct parallel to our work:

• Empowering Artisans: By providing fair wages and consistent work to the Chippa community in Bagru, we contribute directly to their economic stability. This stability, in turn, allows families to access better food, education, and healthcare—all fundamental to good nutrition.
• Natural and Sustainable: Just as “eating right” promotes health, dressing in natural, breathable fabrics promotes comfort and well-being. Our use of natural dyes and eco-friendly practices reflects a deep respect for the environment, much like advocating for sustainable food production.
• Holistic Well-being: For us, a garment is not just fabric; it’s a story of human connection, of skill, and of dignity. This sense of purpose and well-being in our artisans is as crucial as the food on their plates.

Your Pledge: Eating Right, Living Fully

This National Nutrition Week, I invite you to join me in making a personal pledge to “Eat Right for a Better Life.”

1. Mindful Choices: Pay attention to what you eat. Embrace local, seasonal produce. Simple, wholesome foods are often the most nutritious.
2. Support Local: Just as we champion local crafts, let’s champion our local farmers and food producers. This strengthens local economies and ensures fresh, accessible nutrition.
3. Reduce Waste: Be mindful of food waste. Every morsel saved is a resource preserved.
4. Dress Consciously: Extend this mindfulness to your lifestyle. Choose clothes that feel good, are made ethically, and respect the planet. Our natural fabrics are a part of your holistic wellness.

A Vision for a Nourished, Resilient India

Nutrition is not a luxury; it is a fundamental human right. It is the bedrock upon which a strong, healthy, and prosperous India will be built. This National Nutrition Week, let us commit to nourishing ourselves, our families, and our communities. Let us contribute to a future where every child thrives, every woman is strong, and every individual has the opportunity to live a “Better Life.”

From my heart and the entire SA Fab family, let’s pledge to build a nourished, resilient India, one mindful choice at a time.