The Tibetan community has lived in India for decades, especially inhabiting the regions around Dharmshala, which is the holy seat of the Dalai Llama. However, we know little about the day-to-day lives of the community apart from their protests and activism, which is the only aspect of their lives that’s covered by the mainstream media. And, in a way, that is what makes Tenor Sharlho and his work so different! Tenor is an Indo-Tibetan fashion designer, entrepreneur, and connoisseur of traditional Himalayan crafts and designs, as well as the founder of Sharlho, a sustainable slow fashion label at McLeodganj, Dharmshala.
Tenor Sharlho came to India when he was 5 years old, during the second wave of the Tibetan exodus, and continues to reside here. His boutique specialises in exotic Himalayan crafts and promotes both sustainability and community development. He prioritises zero-wastage by using leftover materials to make small accessories and stuffing for cushions. The venture is an initiative to turn away from fast fashion, which has been found detrimental to the environment in recent years. Preserving ancient techniques, providing jobs, and contributing to the local community are the chief objectives of Tenor Sharlho’s fashion label, which is simultaneously a homage to his multi-faceted identity as a Tibetan living in India, as well as a proactive initiative in giving back to the community.
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