From Turbans to Tradition: The Artistry of Girish Murudkar

By Uzma Shaikh

Pune, 1st October 2024: Tucked away in the bustling lanes of Budhwar Peth, Pune, is a shop that has withstood the test of time, staying true to its roots while adapting to modern tastes. “Murudkar Zendewala and Fetewala” is a name synonymous with tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Since the early 1940s, this establishment has been serving generations of customers. Now in its third generation, the shop is led by Girish Murudkar, who continues the legacy started by his great-great-grandfather, Shankar Ramakrishna Murudkar.

What began as a humble shop specializing in nugdis, nauvari sarees, and Dharvadi khands has evolved into a hub of artistic craftsmanship. In an era when most people sought opportunities abroad, Girish chose to stay close to his roots, asking, “Why not earn dollars right here?” With a vision to merge tradition and art, he transformed his family’s business into something more than just a retail store—it became a symbol of cultural pride.

The shop’s offerings include over 1,000 specialized items, from handmade pagdis (traditional headwear) to readymade turbans and capes that exude Indian heritage. One of the shop’s proudest achievements was crafting a wedding turban for Prince Charles—one of only two gifts the Prince accepted during his visit to India. It was a moment of great pride for Girish and his family, showcasing their talent on a global stage.

Beyond the borders of India, the shop has played a key role in cultural celebrations abroad. Girish’s workshop supplies materials for the Ganesh Utsav celebrations in America, and though the quantities may be small, the shop’s impact is far-reaching. Their handcrafted items carry a sense of tradition that is hard to find elsewhere.

The three-story building housing the shop is always bustling with activity. Under Girish’s leadership, the establishment operates 365 days a year, dedicated to creating unique items rooted in Indian tradition. With over 30 to 40 workers under his guidance, Girish has not only preserved the craftsmanship of his forefathers but also created employment opportunities for many, including women who contribute to the business from their homes.

In recent years, the demand for their products has grown, with interest from regions like Vidarbha, Mumbai, and Pimpri-Chinchwad. While there are plans to expand, Girish leans toward selling online rather than opening physical outlets. This approach allows them to maintain the quality and exclusivity of their products while reaching a broader audience.

For Girish, the items he creates are not just accessories; they are pieces of history. When customers wear a cape inspired by Shivaji Maharaj, they are not merely donning a garment—they are embodying the spirit and strength of the legendary Maratha leader. This connection to the past is what makes Girish’s products so special. Each item tells a story, carrying a sense of pride, tradition, and identity.

Girish Murudkar’s shop continues to flourish, not just because of the quality of their work but also due to the deep cultural significance embedded in every piece. Whether crafting for political leaders, actors, or everyday customers, Girish’s philosophy remains the same: to create art that keeps India’s traditions alive.

Despite the many changes surrounding him—including the transformation of his shop’s environment from a cloth market to an electric market—Girish has stayed true to his roots. His shop remains one of the few in the area that continues to thrive, a testament to the power of dedication, tradition, and the timeless appeal of artistic craftsmanship. For Girish and his team, every day is a celebration of Indian heritage, and they are proud to carry forward the legacy started by their ancestors over 80 years ago.