Legacy Page

✨ Legacy & Journey of C’Lai

 

Origins of C’Lai (1928)

C’Lai was founded in 1928, built on four timeless pillars — Trust, Quality, Variety, and Price. From the very beginning, the brand was known for tailoring excellence and reliability, becoming a trusted name for families seeking fine clothing at affordable prices.

The Journey of Chandrashekhar (Dada) Gujar

In 1958, Mr. Chandrashekhar Gujar (fondly known as Dada Gujar) was born in Mumbai. After schooling at Bal Mohan Vidya Mandir, Dadar, financial struggles forced him to leave education in 1974.

At just ₹5 per week, he began working in tailoring to support his family. Driven by ambition, he took a ₹750 loan from Maharashtra Bank and purchased his first stitching machine on Dussehra. His breakthrough came when cricketer Ajit Wadekar helped him secure bank uniform orders, laying the foundation of his entrepreneurial journey.

By 1984, he had married Mrs. Sujata Gujar, balancing family life with expanding business aspirations.

Pune Expansion & Birth of Modern C’Lai (1990)

In 1990, seeing greater opportunities, he shifted to Pune and launched a 200 sq. ft. tailoring and garment shop at Sadashiv Peth, under the name C’Lai.

At a time when readymade garments were rare, Punekars embraced his work. Within a decade, the single shop grew into three outlets, cementing C’Lai’s reputation as a household name.

By 2000, he integrated tailoring, fabric trading, and readymade wear at a landmark store on Tilak Road, Pune, making C’Lai a complete family fashion destination.

Awards, Achievements & Industry Recognition (2008–2014)

C’Lai’s growth was matched by industry accolades, recognizing both excellence in sales and leadership in tailoring:

  • 2008 – Awarded by Raymond for “Excellent Performance in Fabric Selling – Pune”
  • 2009 – Again awarded by Raymond for “Excellent Performance in Fabric Selling – Pune”
  • 2010 – Invited to a Global Conference in Oman by J. Hampstead, the world’s finest fabric & apparel brand
  • 2010 – Received another Raymond Award for “Excellent Performance in Fabric Selling – Pune”
  • 2011 – Master Tailor of India award presented to Shri. Chandrashekhar Gujar by J. Hampstead
  • 2012 – Awarded by J. Hampstead for “Highest Sales in Pune Zone” and “3rd Highest Sales All-India Level”
  • 2012 – Linen Club appointed C’Lai as an Authorized Association for marketing their exclusive products
  • 2013 – Secured Authorized Retailership from DIGJAM Fine Suiting
  • 2013 – Silverleaf received “Best Retailer in India” from bestselling casual brand Grammar
  • 2013 – C’Lai received “Best Sellers Award” by Van Heusen Suits
  • 2014 – Awarded by Kohinoor Fabrics Pro Lifestyle as “Fastest Emerging Group with Dynamic Vision & Growth”
  • 2014 – Shri. Chandrashekhar Gujar honored with “Self-Made Man” award by D. S. Kulkarni (DSK)
  • 2014 – Secured Authorized Retailership from OCM India Ltd.

These milestones established C’Lai not just as a retailer, but as a recognized force in India’s fabric and fashion industry.

Family-Driven Growth

Dada Gujar’s belief in balancing business with family proved pivotal. His children joined him early:

  • Sarita Gujar – Bharatanatyam Visharad & graduate in Fashion Communication, manages key verticals.
  • Sagar Gujar – Expanded the business with buying expertise, schemes, and retail innovations, bringing modern strategies to C’Lai.

This generational continuity ensured C’Lai remained innovative yet rooted in tradition.

CG Lifestyles Industries Private Limited

Over the years, the group evolved into CG Lifestyles Industries Private Limited, parent company of:

  • C’Lai World – Family fashion stores (14 outlets across Maharashtra & Karnataka)
  • Silverleaf – Western and casual wear brand with 62+ EBOs and 22 SIS locations

With in-house brands such as Mia (Kurtis), Silverdry (Men’s Formals), Silverman (Men’s Casuals), and Rangdori (Ethnic Wear), the company continues to innovate while retaining affordability.

Social Responsibility – Dada Gujar Foundation

To “give back what society has given,” Dada Gujar Foundation actively supports:

  • Education: Computer labs, scholarships, and teacher funding.
  • Healthcare: Dialysis center support and senior citizen aid.
  • Community: Financial help for underprivileged marriages and medical emergencies.

🌟 Today & Beyond

From 1928’s humble beginnings to Dada Gujar’s visionary leadership and today’s modern retail powerhouse, C’Lai has built a 90+ year legacy.

With family values, innovation, awards-backed excellence, and social responsibility, CG Lifestyles Industries Private Limited continues to be more than just a fashion brand — it is a celebration of trust, quality, and life itself.



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