India's hair industry is experiencing a significant shift as the demand for wigs rises. With the country being the largest exporter of human hair, many local traders and businesses are embracing new technologies and changing perceptions to enhance their market presence, aiming to elevate the industry beyond its traditional practices.
The Untapped Gold: India's Hair Industry Sees a Transformation
The Untapped Gold: India's Hair Industry Sees a Transformation
Indian hair, once a discarded material, is now being recognized as a potential goldmine for the expanding wig market, driven by changing attitudes and technology.
Our article text explores how drag artist Zeeshan Ali's 45 wigs symbolize identity and empowerment in the Indian entertainment sector. Despite the challenges faced in sourcing wigs in the past, the industry is evolving. India remains the world’s leading exporter of human hair, supplying 85% of global demand. Kolachi Venkatesh, a hair collector, describes how undervalued non-Remy hair, collected from homes and salons, is perceived as “gold.” Hair pickers earn meager wages, often below minimum standards while transporting their collections to traders.
The bulk of Indian hair is sent to China for wig production, where the business is valued at around five to six billion dollars. Benjamin Cherian from Plexconcil highlights the urgent need for India to develop its hair industry, advocating for innovation and investment to improve processing and production capabilities.
Delhi-based Diva Divine Hair, founded by Nidhi Tiwari, is one company attempting to capitalize on the growing need for wigs and extensions due to increasing hair loss concerns among women. Shifting social norms are fostering acceptance, ensuring a growing market for advanced wig technologies, such as 3D printing and color-matching tools.
At the premium end, Temple hair also attracts considerable attention, distinguished by its aligned cuticles, which allows for superior quality wigs. Raj Hair International exemplifies efficiency by developing untangling machines to maximize their yield.
As global demand skyrockets for quality Indian hair, Zeeshan Ali envisions a future where innovative, affordable wigs create a remarkable impact, aligning with the evolving hair industry landscape.
The bulk of Indian hair is sent to China for wig production, where the business is valued at around five to six billion dollars. Benjamin Cherian from Plexconcil highlights the urgent need for India to develop its hair industry, advocating for innovation and investment to improve processing and production capabilities.
Delhi-based Diva Divine Hair, founded by Nidhi Tiwari, is one company attempting to capitalize on the growing need for wigs and extensions due to increasing hair loss concerns among women. Shifting social norms are fostering acceptance, ensuring a growing market for advanced wig technologies, such as 3D printing and color-matching tools.
At the premium end, Temple hair also attracts considerable attention, distinguished by its aligned cuticles, which allows for superior quality wigs. Raj Hair International exemplifies efficiency by developing untangling machines to maximize their yield.
As global demand skyrockets for quality Indian hair, Zeeshan Ali envisions a future where innovative, affordable wigs create a remarkable impact, aligning with the evolving hair industry landscape.
