Our Story
Bobby International: A Journey Woven with Love, Craftsmanship, and Legacy
In the heart of Sri Lanka, in a small workshop filled with the hum of sewing machines and the soft rustle of fabric, a love story blossomed—one that would go on to weave the fabric of a brand cherished by generations. It was when John Paul Raj, a determined young man from Hatton, arrived in Colombo with dreams of a better future.
Across the city, in Ja-Ela, a talented seamstress named Rohini Marthinu was cultivating her craft, unaware that destiny was about to intertwine their lives.
John found work as a sales agent at a brassiere factory in Kandana, where Rohini was already working with dedication and precision. In the shared space of the factory, as they collaborated on bringing high-quality products to life, something deeper began to grow between them—a bond built on mutual respect, shared goals, and a profound love for the art of lingerie-making.
Their relationship soon transcended the boundaries of the factory floor. By mid-1975, their shared vision led them to make a courageous decision—to leave their secure jobs and embark on a journey of their own. On July 6th, 1974, they officially brought their dream to life, creating the first brassiere under their own brand, Bobby. The name was inspired by the 1973 Bollywood classic Bobby, a film that had captivated audiences with its tale of love and defiance against societal norms. Much like the movie’s heroine, Dimple Kapadia’s Bobby Braganza, who set new trends and captured hearts, John and Rohini’s Bobby would symbolize style, passion, and romance.
Rohini, with her exceptional skills as a seamstress, poured her heart into every piece she crafted. Her leadership, marked by empathy and understanding, fostered a collaborative and supportive environment within their small workshop. In an era when female entrepreneurship was rare, Rohini’s determination and pride in her craft were truly groundbreaking. She was not just creating lingerie; she was shaping a new standard of quality and comfort for women across the country.
John, with his natural charisma and sharp business acumen, played a crucial role in growing their fledgling business. He understood the importance of connecting with customers on a personal level, and his ability to do so with warmth and sincerity helped Bobby quickly build a loyal customer base. In the early days, John would travel across Colombo, often by public bus, to personally deliver their products—each sale a testament to his unwavering belief in their brand.
From these humble beginnings, Bobby has flourished into a family-owned and operated enterprise, deeply rooted in the values of its founders. December 28th, 2005, marked a significant milestone as the company opened its main production facility in Kappuwatta, Ja-Ela, laying the groundwork for future growth. In 2012, Bobby expanded its offerings with the introduction of Bobby Panties, further solidifying its position in the market.
On September 21st, 2015, Bobby opened its second production facility in Kalpitiya, a testament to the brand’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of its growing customer base.
As the years went by, the brand continued to evolve, launching the Mia line in 2018 to cater to teenage girls seeking fashionable undergarments, and Nicho, a brand designed for men’s intimate wear.
Today, Bobby stands as a symbol of comfort, confidence, and timeless elegance, employing over 350 dedicated individuals who continue to uphold the legacy of John and Rohini. What began as a simple dream in a small workshop has grown into a brand that helps women—and now men—feel their best in their most intimate moments.
As Bobby celebrates over 50 years of excellence, we remain committed to the values that brought us here: love, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the people we serve. The journey that began with a young couple’s dream has become a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, and we look forward to continuing this legacy for generations to come.
