From Fashion to Politics: Priyal Bhardwaj’s Multifaceted Journey

An interview with Ms. Priyal Bhardwaj — a dynamic political leader, fashion entrepreneur, women’s rights advocate, and General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha (Delhi Pradesh)

In this interview, we explore the inspiring journey of Ms. Priyal Bhardwaj, General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha.

A dynamic political leader and fashion entrepreneur, she embodies the modern Indian changemaker. Her contributions include leading grassroots campaigns, mentoring women through her NGO Sangini Saheli, and promoting sustainable fashion with her label LabelPB.

Can you share your journey into politics and what motivated you to become involved with the BJP Mahila Morcha?

Priyal Bhardwaj: My entry into politics didn’t come from ambition—it came from the ground. I had been working closely with women and children through Sangini Saheli, and I kept seeing the same patterns: lack of access, inequality, and unheard voices.

I realised that real, lasting change needed to come from a space where policies are made and voices carry weight.

So when I was appointed General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha, Delhi, in August 2023, it wasn’t just a new title—it was a deeper responsibility.

I saw it as an opportunity to take all that I’d learned in grassroots work and bring it to a platform where we could influence real change at scale. For me, politics is not about positions or power—it’s about impact and inclusion.

What are the key issues you believe are most important for women in India today, and how is the BJP Mahila Morcha addressing these issues?

Priyal Bhardwaj: There are still many areas where women in India face real challenges. Access to education, healthcare, safety, and economic opportunities are some of the biggest.

And while we’ve made progress as a country, the truth is that many women—especially in rural and underserved areas—are still struggling to access even the basics.

The BJP Mahila Morcha is trying to change that, step by step. We work on-ground, through outreach programs, campaigns, and initiatives that are designed to uplift women and provide them with the resources they need.

From running awareness drives to supporting government schemes like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, we are committed to creating an India where every woman feels heard, safe, and empowered.

What inspired you to start your fashion label, LabelPB, and how does it reflect your commitment to India’s textile heritage?

Priyal Bhardwaj: LabelPB began from a place of deep respect and love for Indian textiles and handmade crafts. I’ve always believed that fashion can be a powerful form of storytelling.

Growing up, I was surrounded by vibrant fabrics, traditional embroidery, and strong women who wore their identity in what they wore.

I wanted to create something that honoured that—something that blended tradition with modern aesthetics.

Every collection we create at LabelPB is rooted in Indian heritage, whether it’s handwoven textiles or crafts from Self Help Groups in rural villages.

Our designs are not just clothes—they are stories of freedom, strength, and expression. Each piece carries the spirit of a woman who dares to be both rooted and revolutionary.

In what ways do you think the fashion industry can contribute to social change, particularly in rural communities?

Priyal Bhardwaj: Fashion can do so much more than look good—it can uplift, employ, and empower. When we choose to work with artisans in rural areas, pay fair wages, and promote traditional skills, we are giving communities a sense of pride and purpose.

At LabelPB, we collaborate with Self Help Groups and women artisans who would otherwise not have access to national or global markets.

By bringing their craftsmanship into mainstream fashion, we’re helping them earn a livelihood, build confidence, and create ripple effects of change in their communities.Fashion, when done mindfully, becomes a tool of empowerment.

How can the public support sustainable fashion and empower rural artisans?

Priyal Bhardwaj: It starts with small, conscious choices.

• Buy local.
• Choose handmade over mass-produced.
• Ask questions about who made your clothes and how.
• Share the stories of brands that are doing things ethically.

When you support sustainable fashion, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting a person, a family, a craft, and a tradition.

Every purchase becomes a small act of empowerment. And when thousands of us make that same choice, it turns into a movement that uplifts rural artisans and preserves our cultural heritage.

As a political leader and entrepreneur, what legacy do you hope to leave for future generations of women in India?

Priyal Bhardwaj: I hope my journey shows that you don’t have to choose between being creative and being impactful—you can be both.

I want young girls to grow up believing that they can run businesses, lead change, express themselves, and stay rooted in their values all at once.

My legacy, if I were to dream of one, would be this: that I opened doors. That I made it easier for the next woman to step forward, to lead, to speak up, and to create.

Whether it’s through LabelPB, Sangini Saheli, or my political work—I want every woman who interacts with my journey to feel like she can rewrite her own story too.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter politics or entrepreneurship?

Priyal Bhardwaj: Start where you are, with what you have. You don’t need to have everything figured out to begin. What matters most is clarity of purpose and belief in yourself. Learn constantly. Speak up—even if your voice shakes.

Don’t let fear of failure hold you back because failure is where some of your biggest lessons will come from.

And most importantly, lift other women along the way. Support, sisterhood, and solidarity are your superpowers.

How can one be a genuine changemaker in the Instagram era? What are some things a leader must do to positively inspire Gen Z?

Priyal Bhardwaj: In today’s world, where everything is online and fast-moving, authenticity is your biggest strength. Gen Z doesn’t want perfect—they want real.

They want leaders who speak truthfully, stand up for what matters, and show their whole selves—the wins, the struggles, the behind-the-scenes.

If you want to inspire, you must also listen. Don’t lead from a pedestal—lead from the heart. Use your platform to create dialogue, not just content. Show up consistently and let your life reflect your values. That’s what true influence looks like today.

Priyal Bhardwaj’s dedication to empowering women and advocating for social justice is reshaping Indian politics and entrepreneurship.

Her impactful initiatives highlight the significant role one individual can play in fostering equity and inclusivity, inspiring future changemakers to create meaningful change in society.

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