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Trendia opens cultural experience centre in Illinois
Trendia has expanded to include apparel, home décor, and rare collectibles sourced directly from Indian artisans.
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Pranavi Sharma - Sun, 11, May 2025
- 02:33 EDT
- 152
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Mayor Richard C. Irvin leads the ribbon cutting as Trendia brings India’s soul to Aurora. / Asian Media USA
Trendia, a homegrown brand rooted in Indian craftsmanship, opened its first U.S. Experience Centre on May 3 in Aurora, Illinois, timed to also kick off Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
Founded during the pandemic in 2020 by husband-wife duo Vijay Karumanchi and Sampurna Sikha, Trendia started with a simple act of a father-in-law trying to send mango pickle to his daughter abroad during lockdowns. That small gesture gave rise to what is now a global lifestyle brand rooted in nostalgia, artistry, and meaningful gifting.
The event marked a new chapter of Indian heritage in the city. / Asian Media USA"This isn’t just a store," said Aurora Alderwoman Shweta Baid, the city’s first Indian American and Southeast Asian council member. "It’s a mini-India—a space where smells, colours, textures, and spirituality meet."
Aurora Mayor Richard C. Irvin—who introduced himself fondly as a “Blindian” (Black and Indian), rang a ceremonial bell three times to mark Trendia’s official welcome into the community. He presented the founders with a commemorative plaque, calling the centre a “vibrant contributor to the city’s cultural tapestry.”
Trendia’s journey from a digital store to a physical experience was driven by community response. Originally known for selling Indian pickles and sweets, it has expanded to include apparel, home décor, and rare collectibles sourced directly from artisans across 13 Indian states.
The 3,000-plus item collection includes: Brass idols, marble and brass statues, stone sculptures by Padma Shri awardee Pravakar Maharana, wooden art by President’s Award winner Charuhas Pandit, and Cheriyal masks painted by one of Andhra Pradesh’s last surviving artisan families.
Co-founder Sampurna Sikha highlighted their team of 40+ individuals in India—many of whom are family members—working with artisans through fair trade practices to ensure livelihoods and dignity.
Suresh Bodiwala, chairman and founder of Asian Media USA, said : “Trendia’s Experience Centre is a living bridge between India and America. It doesn’t just preserve art, it dignifies artisanship, empowers creators, and educates the next generation.”
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