Dr. S.K. Sundararaman: Pioneering Innovation and Value Creation in India’s Technical Textiles Industry
Dr. S.K. Sundararaman
Managing Director
Shiva Texyarn Ltd.
Dr. S.K. Sundararaman, Managing Director of Shiva Texyarn Ltd., is a name synonymous with innovation and leadership in India’s technical textiles sector. With an MBBS degree and a Masters in Business Management from Cambridge University, UK, his unique blend of medical knowledge and business acumen has shaped his visionary approach to technical textiles—a sector that merges science, engineering, and creativity to produce high-performance materials for specialised applications. As the Managing Trustee of the Firebird Institute of Research in Management and Chairman of the Indian Technical Textile Association, Dr. Sundararaman has been a driving force in advancing technical textiles and technical education in India. In a recent conversation with the TVC Media Team, he shared insights into his journey, the philosophy behind Shiva Texyarn’s success, and his outlook on the future of the industry.
A Journey Fueled by Curiosity and Vision
Dr. Sundararaman’s entry into technical textiles was not a straightforward path but rather a convergence of curiosity, opportunity, and a desire to innovate. Early on, he recognised that technical textiles offered far greater potential than traditional fabrics—enabling the creation of materials engineered for specific functions, from protective clothing to industrial applications. “What attracted me was the ability to solve real-world problems through materials science,” he explained. “We saw a chance to move beyond commodity textiles into products that add real value to customers and industries.”
Investing in Knowledge: The Key to Early Success
One of the earliest milestones for Shiva Texyarn was pioneering polyurethane (PUR) lamination in India in 2005—a process that enhances fabric durability and waterproofing. This breakthrough was not accidental but the result of deliberate investment in expertise. “We hired a consultant from the UK, paying a thousand pounds a day, to teach us the intricacies of PUR lamination,” Dr. Sundararaman recalled. “We even recorded every detail because we knew this knowledge was priceless. This approach shortened our learning curve from years to months and connected us to global supply chains.” This commitment to acquiring the best knowledge, regardless of cost, became a hallmark of Shiva Texyarn’s approach. It allowed the company to leapfrog competitors and establish a strong foothold in specialised technical textiles.
From Process to Product: A Strategic Mindset Shift
A defining philosophy at Shiva Texyarn is the focus on being a “products and solutions company” rather than merely a “process-oriented” manufacturer. Dr. Sundararaman emphasised that this mindset drives the company’s innovation and market leadership. “Instead of asking how to make a material, we ask what the highest value we can extract from it is,” he said. “Products that solve people’s problems generate far more value than those made just because someone wants them.” This customer-centric, problem-solving approach has led Shiva Texyarn to develop unique products such as Dry Sheets—an innovation that combined technical performance with market insight to create a new category.
Breakthroughs in Military Textiles
Shiva Texyarn’s reputation for innovation extends to its significant role in supplying specialised textiles for India’s defence forces. The company’s entry into this sector was marked by a challenging project from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). “DRDO had been searching for a specialised carbon fabric for over three years without success,” Dr. Sundararaman shared. “We delivered a solution within 48 hours. That success opened the door to a long-term partnership, and today, we supply about 80% of certain critical products to the Indian armed forces.” This achievement reflects Shiva Texyarn’s ability to meet stringent quality and performance standards, positioning it as a trusted partner in defence and other high-stakes sectors.
Prioritising Premium Technology Over Cost
In a market often tempted by low-cost machinery, Dr. Sundararaman advocates investing in the best technology available globally. “There is a tendency to opt for cheaper machines, often from China, but we have found that paying a premium for specialised equipment from the West is essential,” he said. “This investment enables us to produce non-commoditised, high-value products that differentiate us in the market.” This strategic choice underlines Shiva Texyarn’s commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term competitiveness.
Navigating Challenges and Building Patience
Dr. Sundararaman acknowledges that technical textiles require patience and long-term vision. Investments in R&D and infrastructure may take years to yield results, especially in specialised sectors like defence. “For example, our first military order came five years after investing heavily and nurturing the relationship,” he noted. “This industry is not for quick returns but for those willing to build capabilities and trust over time.” He also highlighted ongoing challenges, such as India’s dependence on imported raw materials and machinery, which can limit global competitiveness. Addressing these gaps is crucial for the industry’s growth.
The Future of Technical Textiles in India
Despite challenges, Dr. Sundararaman is optimistic about the future. He sees Gujarat emerging as a hub of innovation and believes India can become a global leader in technical textiles by focusing on value-added products. “The future belongs to those who think beyond commodity pricing and focus on perception and brand value,” he said. “I look forward to an Indian brand commanding premium prices on the international stage, much like North Face or Arc’teryx.” He envisions Indian companies developing products tailored for future needs, such as clothing designed for extreme heat, reflecting the impacts of climate change.
Empowering the Next Generation
Dr. Sundararaman’s advice to young engineers and entrepreneurs is rooted in curiosity, global exposure, and problem-solving. “I encourage young professionals to travel, learn the best technologies worldwide, and bring that knowledge back,” he said. “Focus on creating products that solve real problems and anticipate where the world will be in 10 years.” This forward-looking mindset, he believes, will be essential for India’s technical textiles industry to thrive.
Emerging Trends and Strategic Bets
Shiva Texyarn is already making strategic bets on emerging trends. The company is investing heavily in R&D to develop garments that can reduce body temperature by several degrees—a potential game-changer in hot climates. “We are exploring materials and designs that are not gimmicks but deliver real, perceptible cooling,” Dr. Sundararaman explained. “We’re also looking at innovations in inflatables, water conservation textiles, and other areas aligned with future environmental and consumer needs.” Such initiatives reflect Shiva Texyarn’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and shaping the industry’s future.
Conclusion
Dr. S.K. Sundararaman’s journey and insights offer a roadmap for India’s technical textiles sector—one that blends deep technical knowledge, strategic investment, and a relentless focus on value creation. Shiva Texyarn’s success story underscores the importance of patience, innovation, and global thinking in building a competitive and sustainable industry. As India positions itself on the global technical textiles map, leaders like Dr. Sundararaman exemplify how vision combined with execution can transform challenges into opportunities and create products that not only meet but anticipate the needs of tomorrow.