Poonch, September 10, 2025 — In an inspiring journey from the remote town of Poonch, Zaibun Nissa, a determined entrepreneur, has transformed her passion for fashion into a thriving clothing brand, Sukhan Nama. In a candid interview with Syed Sammar Mehdi, the visionary behind the brand shared her remarkable story of overcoming challenges, embracing innovation, and building a startup that resonates with women across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.Zaibun, hailing from a small town known for its scenic beauty but limited opportunities, faced numerous hurdles in launching Sukhan Nama. “Starting a business in Poonch wasn’t easy—lack of resources, connectivity, and exposure were big challenges,” she told Mehdi. Undeterred, she leveraged her love for traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design to create a brand that blends Kashmiri heritage with modern aesthetics.
Her collections, featuring intricately designed suits, kurtas, and embroidered shawls, have gained popularity for their unique fusion of culture and style.The journey wasn’t without setbacks. Zaibun spoke of navigating financial constraints, societal expectations, and the logistical difficulties of operating from a remote region. “There were times I doubted myself, but my family’s support and my belief in empowering women through fashion kept me going,” she said. Her determination led her to adopt e-commerce platforms and social media marketing, enabling Sukhan Nama to reach customers nationwide. She also emphasized the importance of sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and supporting local artisans.Reflecting on her lessons, Zaibun highlighted resilience and adaptability as key to her success.
“Every challenge taught me something new—whether it was learning digital tools or building a supply chain from scratch,” she shared. Her story has inspired many in Poonch, particularly young women, to pursue entrepreneurship and dream big despite limited resources.Syed Sammar Mehdi, a noted journalist, praised Zaibun’s vision, stating, “Her journey from a small town to a recognized brand is a testament to what passion and perseverance can achieve.” Sukhan Nama is now expanding, with plans to introduce new collections and collaborate with artisans across J&K to promote local craftsmanship.Zaibun’s story is a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs in rural India, proving that with grit and innovation, a small-town dream can become a national success.
