The market for sustainable products is growing rapidly as younger generations become more aware of sustainable living. The slow fashion movement perfectly matches the growing demand for eco-friendly choices in urban areas, encouraging a more sustainable way of living. Gayatri Varun, the Founder and CEO of Green Hermitage, is a trailblazing woman entrepreneur making a significant impact in this space. Through Green Hermitage, she is working to inspire more people to choose ethical, sustainable products and change the way we think about consumption. Recently Gayatri Varun was honoured with the ‘Sustainable Brand of the Year’ Award at Jagran New Media's Womenpreneur Awards 2025 (HerZindagi) celebrating her dedication and hard work.
Gayatri Varun Revolutionising Luxury Fashion With Green Hermitage
Gayatri Varun's Green Hermitage is a women-led luxury brand that focuses on creating sustainable handbags, travel accessories, and corporate products, all made from plant-based leather. Gayatri Varun, the Founder & CEO of Green Hermitage shared, “The brand blends sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship to create high-quality accessories using eco-conscious materials like apple leather, cactus leather, and coconut leather.”
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Talking about her goal, she shared, “With a mission to redefine fashion through ethical production and slow fashion principles, Green Hermitage is committed to reconnecting people with the planet while empowering artisans and fostering social impact.”
Embracing Eco-Friendly And Plant-Based Leather Goods
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“With 80% of its workforce consisting of women, the brand actively supports economic growth and social empowerment”, says Gayatri Varun. She also highlights that, “It has expanded to around 18 national and 4 international marketplaces, continuously growing its presence in global markets.”
Gayatri Varun's products are made using high-quality vegan, plant-based ingredients. This is important as more people are choosing vegan and cruelty-free options in all areas of their lives. She wants to create sustainable fashion and make a positive impact on the future.
Challenges Faced by Gayatri Varun
As a female entrepreneur, Gayatri Varun faced many challenges, especially dealing with gender bias. It was tough to secure funding and build relationships with vendors. From applying for grants to breaking into international markets, there were many obstacles along the way. However, with persistence and hard work, she found ways to push through, using smart marketing strategies and creative outreach to connect with my audience.
Access to capital has also been a struggle for her, the credit score and financial resources often falling behind those of other male peers. Balancing work and family life hasn’t been easy either for her. But the key to overcoming these challenges has been staying consistent, confident, and believing in oneself.
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Thoughts On Receiving The Sustainable Brand of The Year Award
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Gayatri Varun was awarded the ‘Sustainable Brand of the Year Award’ at Jagran New Media’s Womenpreneur Awards 2025 (HerZindagi). “This Award is a huge tribute to Green Hermitage’s work in the Sustainable Products Space. This honor validates the brand’s mission to create luxurious yet responsible products while driving meaningful change in the industry. It also is a symbol of motivation for other Women Entrepreneurs to continue building their businesses and letting their dreams soar”, says Gayatri Varun, the Founder & CEO of Green Hermitage.
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Awards
- HYSEA Awards - Special Jury Mention for Sustainable Startup
- HDFC Sustainable StartUp of the Year 2024
- MOHA Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2nd Place holder 2023
- Sustainable Brand of the Year Award - Womenpreneur Awards 2025
Gayatri Varun’s innovative approach to luxury plant-based leather products has positioned her at the forefront of a new wave in the fashion industry. Her journey will inspire countless others to think outside the box and embrace sustainability without sacrificing luxury.
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