Bandhej was started in 1981 by Archana Shah, an alumna of the National Institute of Design. The first store opened in Ahmedabad in 1985. BANDHEJ was one of the first 'designer' labels in the country, which while drawing upon the Indian heritage in textiles also reflected a very contemporary sensibility in the design of its fabrics and clothing for women, offering a range of fashion collections for a multicultural woman, who is looking for eclectic apparel that reflects her strong sense of self and style.