Shiv Kumar Chaudhary, the visionary founder of Pratibha Syntex Ltd. – one of India’s leading sustainable apparel manufacturers – passed away in the early hours of 17th June, a spokesperson from the company confirmed to Apparel Resources.
In a statement, the company described Chaudhary as a pioneering force who established Pratibha Syntex with a forward-thinking concept that was far ahead of its time. From a modest spinning unit employing just 200 workers and operating 25,000 spindles, he built one of India’s most respected vertically integrated textile companies, encompassing spinning, knitting, dyeing, and garmenting.
His vision led to the creation of Pratibha Swaraj in 2022 – a facility dedicated to seamless and sustainable clothing production.
A Social Media post from Pratibha Syntex said, “He was more than just an industrialist; he was a kind leader who was devoted to improving society. He promoted causes like rural development, healthcare access, and child education through the Pratibha Foundation. Through his active participation in the Friends of Tribal Society, he helped tribal populations in far-flung areas by bringing them hope and education.”
Pratibha Syntex was established by Shiv Kumar Chaudhary in 1997 in the town of Pithampur in Madhya Pradesh. Pratibha began as a small spinning mill business and has since grown to become the largest producer and exporter of sustainable apparel in India, providing a full range of fibre-to-fashion options.
Over four state-of-the-art production facilities located in Central India and a diverse workforce of over 6000 individuals are now part of the company’s transformation.
As a vertically integrated organisation, the company has the capability to produce 15,000 tonnes of lint cotton, 20,000 tonnes or yarn, 10,000 tonnes of fabric and 50 million garment pieces per year. Pratibha Syntex recently had an industrial unit inaugurated by the CM of Madhya Pradesh near Ujjain, with a Rs. 355 crore (US $ 41 million) investment and an initial phase investment of Rs. 100 crore (US $ 11.55 million).
The entire team at Apparel Resources pays heartfelt tribute to Shiv Kumar Chaudhary – a leader, innovator and changemaker whose legacy will continue to inspire generations in the textile and apparel industry.
