A handbag is just an accessory. That is - until its design embodies one woman’s determination to overcome challenge and strife. Indeed, after nine years, Muldooneys is relaunching, and it feels fitting that our first limited edition collection of eight iconic series takes inspiration from our founder’s ancestral heritage, in the ancient city of Madurai, South India where a Pandya king and his wife ruled a land steeped in ancient folklore and tradition, and the values of courage, resilience, truth, and bravery shaped the destiny of one divine young woman, Meenakshi.

The cosmic legend of Meenakshi is a tale that has enthralled generations, a story of destiny, courage, and the transformative power of love. It begins with Malayadhvaja, a king who longed for a son to inherit his kingdom. But the gods had a different plan, and they gifted him a daughter - Meenakshi, who would rise to become a true force to be reckoned with.

Raised as a prince, Meenakshi was taught martial arts, sports, and all the sciences, transforming into a legendary beauty and a fearless warrior queen, feared by her enemies and adored by her people. But despite her power and status, Meenakshi refused to accept a traditional arranged marriage, waiting for the prophesied man who was fated to be hers.

With her fierce army of women warriors, armed with bows, spears, and swords, Meenakshi protected her lands and people, defeating kings and even gods, until she reached the Himalayas. There she met Shiva, the young hermit who would be her true love and soulmate.

The gods had prophesied that Meenakshi would recognize her future husband instantly, and at first glance, her fierce demeanour softened to a blooming flower.

Shiva instructed Meenakshi to return to Madurai, where he would arrive eight days later in the form of Sundareswarer, the Handsome Lord, to marry her in a sacred ceremony called “Thirukalynanam.” As they came together in holy matrimony , Meenakshi's sun and Shiva's crescent moon uniting, bringing harmony to the cosmos and marking the beginning of a love story that transcends time. Together, they ruled symbolically in Madurai, celebrating their divine love story for all to witness.

The legend of Meenakshi is a powerful reminder that true love knows no bounds, and destiny always has a plan for those who are courageous enough to pursue their dreams. We at Muldooneys draw inspiration from this story of strength, love, and destiny, and we invite you to join us on this journey of self-discovery, creativity, and luxury. In series one of Muldooneys’ limited edition collection the essence of Meenakshi’s story - her bravery, resilience, and determination is eulogised. Each piece is crafted with the same passion and attention to detail that Meenakshi brought to every battle.

Own a piece of history and let the legend of Meenakshi live on through you.

Today, within the beating heart of this ancient city of Madurai, lies the Meenakshi Amman temple that was built during Meenakshi’s reign. The temple is a place of worship and in many ways a microcosm of the earthly and spiritual characteristics of India. It’s cultural and spiritual importance radiates out and illuminates Madurai and the entire Tamil-speaking region in south India and across the globe.

The legacy left behind by the extraordinary Meenakshi is that of owning your immense female power, for Meenakshi was not just a warrior goddess who led her army to victory, but she was also benevolent and feminine. It is for this very reason that thousands of years later she is still revered throughout the country, and symbolically rules her lands, from the special place she holds in the hearts and minds of the people of Madurai.

Today, Meenakshi’s and Shiva’s incredible love story is celebrated each year in the “Chithrai Festival” where the young goddess Meenakshi receives the place of importance and continues to inspire young girls to believe that they too are capable of greatness.