Unwrapping the Stories: Mala Thapa Magar & Nettle
You asked, and we listened! Last year’s “12 Days of Christmas – Unwrapping the Stories” was such a hit that we’re back again with more inspiring tales from the artisans behind our Intertwined products. Thank you for loving this as much as we do—Intertwined's artisans are so inspiring, and it is an honor to write these emails!
This year, we’re kicking things off in Nepal, where a seemingly unassuming plant called Himalayan nettle—or allo—has sparked an incredible story of grit, hope, and transformation.
Meet Mala Thapa Magar, the founder of Himalayan Allo Udhyog and the creative force behind Intertwined's NEW (just arrived last week) nettle coasters and soap bags (along with the best-selling placemats). Mala’s story is one of those tales that leaves you in awe of the human spirit. (In case you are wondering, the red Tika that Mala wears on her forehead is a symbol of blessing and helps to reinforce cultural identity and community bonds.)
Back in 2017, my husband Chris and I were trekking in Nepal. Our guides introduced us to nettle, a plant (called allo in Nepal) that grows wild in the mountains and has been used for centuries. This introduction eventually led us to Mala, whose story—and products—blew us away.
In 2009, Mala, a sociology student who dreamed of becoming a social worker, learned about nettle while volunteering at an orphanage. Growing up with a single mother who worked multiple jobs to keep her in school, Mala understood the value of hard work and the importance of opportunity. When she discovered nettle, she saw its potential to create jobs and build self-reliance in Nepal. With just Rs 100,000 (about $740), she launched a small business—determined to make a difference.
But the road was anything but smooth. In 2010, while her company was still young, Mala supplied Rs 600,000 worth of nettle yarn to a carpet manufacturer in Boudha. However, months passed, and the payment never arrived. For nine exhausting months, she called, visited, and pleaded with the manufacturer, but her efforts were in vain. Finally, out of frustration and desperation, she went to the manufacturer’s showroom, took a few carpets as partial compensation, and brought them home.
The next day, Mala received a call from the Boudha police station. The carpet factory owner’s brother had filed a case against her for “taking” the carpets. For an entire week, she was required to report to the police station daily to register herself. As for the carpets, they sold for just over Rs 100,000—only a small fraction of what she was owed. Mala later realized she had likely picked the cheapest ones. To this day, the manufacturer has never paid her, and she has long since given up hope of recovering the money.
Despite moments like this, she didn't give up. By 2017, she landed a major client in India, which gave her stability. Now, Mala’s business indirectly employs over 600 people, sourcing nettle from some of Nepal’s most remote villages.
Every nettle product that Mala and her employees create carries the spirit of resilience, hope, and determination. Their journey is woven into every thread—reminding us of the incredible power of perseverance. When you bring her coasters, placemats, or other nettle items into your home, you’re not just adding beauty; you’re connecting to a story of courage and transformation.
We’re so honored to have Mala as part of the Intertwined family—and so grateful to have YOU supporting her work and others like her. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s story as we continue this journey together. Thank you for making this tradition meaningful and special.
