After more than five decades of dressing generations in traditional Indian attire, Anokhi House of Sarees — a beloved institution on Leicester’s Belgrave Road, known locally as the Golden Mile — will close its doors at the end of this month.
Founded in the early 1970s, Anokhi quickly became more than just a clothing store. For many, it was a cultural landmark — a place where tradition met elegance, where families marked milestones, and where the South Asian community in Leicester found connection, colour, and craftsmanship.
Picture credit: Google
“We don’t know how to say this without our hearts breaking,” said owner Karan Modha in a deeply emotional message shared with the community. “This wasn’t just business. This was family. This was home.”
Over the years, Anokhi has become woven into the fabric of Leicester’s South Asian heritage. From outfitting nervous brides preparing for their big day to showcasing stunning Diwali displays that lit up Belgrave Road with colour and joy, the shop has played a significant role in the lives of thousands.
“We poured our souls into every saree, every fold, every fitting. And your love gave us life,” Modha said. “You were the reason our doors opened every morning.”
The closure marks the end of an era for the Golden Mile, which has long been celebrated for its vibrant mix of Indian cuisine, jewellery, textiles, and community. For many, the absence of Anokhi will leave a noticeable void not just in the retail landscape, but in the cultural heartbeat of the area.
The farewell message from Anokhi is both a tribute and a thank you to the generations of loyal customers who walked through its doors.
“You trusted us with moments that will never be forgotten—weddings, festivals, prayers, and quiet days when a touch of beauty was all you needed,” the message read. “What we built together cannot be undone. It lives on in every saree, every smile, every memory.”
Though the physical store will close, Modha and the Anokhi team hope the memories and meaning of what they created will live on in the hearts of those they served for over 50 years.
Anokhi House of Sarees will close at the end of August 2025.
