Bimla “Bim” Bissell, the driving force behind FabIndia and wife of founder John Bissell, passed away on Thursday. At the age of 93. Known for her flamboyant personality and dedication to Indian crafts, she leaves behind her son William and daughter Monsoon. Her influence extended beyond the brands she helped shape, leaving behind a legacy that redefines Indian fashion and craftsmanship.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, mourning her loss, wrote in X, “The outgoing, tireless, colorful and sharp-witted Bhim Bissell, who did more than anyone to make FabIndia a well-known brand in India, is gone. Her work empowered artisans and embellished Indian handlooms. I will especially miss her commanding presence at her lively Christmas parties.
Born Bimla Nanda of Punjabi origin, she married John Bissell, an American who founded FabIndia in 1960. Bimla initially served as social secretary to US ambassadors in Delhi, including John Kenneth Galbraith, President Kennedy's representative in India. Her career was boosted when she teamed up with John to transform FabIndia into an iconic Indian brand.
Bhim's contribution to FabIndia was instrumental. She developed its aesthetic, known for promoting handloom saris and traditional silver jewellery. Her work created connections with artisans across the country, creating a wide network that became the backbone of FabIndia. She expanded the brand's product line to include furniture, homeware and handicrafts, showcasing India's cultural heritage through a modern lens.
Her passion for education was equally outstanding. In the 1960s, she ran the Playhouse School on Tughlaq Road, Delhi. Decades later, in 2021, she founded a Playhouse at Sundar Tawan, emphasizing her lifelong commitment to children's education.
Known for her distinctive style, Bimi often appeared in handloom sarees adorned with silver bangles – her signature look. Even in her later years, she remained a dynamic figure in Delhi's cultural and social circles.