A textiles firm has fashioned itself into a multi-million pound enterprise after being set up by two brothers as a small business venture.

Maharaja Textiles Ltd, which is based on Cemetery Road, began life in 1994. It was founded by brothers Jasvinder and Manmohan Singh with just £50,000.

The pair's hard work, enthusiasm and dedication now means it has a turnover of £10 million with reserves of £2.5 million.

The company, which imports, exports and wholesales a variety of fabrics, is a true rags-to-riches story.

The firm's first warehouse was a converted family garage in the city centre.

But, the humble beginnings didn't stop the brains behind the business turning it into a firm which is now worth more than £15 million.

Last year it had to move its operation from Four Lanes Ends to a specially refurbished, 55,000 sq ft base on Cemetery Road to keep up with expansion.

The move, which cost the firm £1 million, has meant the company now has huge warehousing facilities and a unique showroom.

Along with its phenomenal financial success the firm, which employs 35 people, has picked up several prestigious accolades.

At the beginning of the month Maharaja was named Business of the Year at the Yorkshire Asian Business Convention, which was held at Valley Parade.

Last year it scooped the Business of the Year title at a ceremony celebrating Asian businesses in Manchester and the Asian Business of the Year Award at an event in Leeds - where the Singh brothers were personally congratulated by the Duke of York.

Managing director Jasvinder Singh said: "We are now one of the top textiles firms in the UK. We import and export fabrics ranging from casual cottons to embroidered fabrics and exclusive bridal wear across the globe.

"The Maharaja name has become a respected symbol for many Asian businesses throughout the country. This acclamation has meant that many overseas suppliers have recognised Maharaja's as a solid business opportunity.

"Our textiles are at the cutting edge of fashion. All of our product ranges are unique, manufactured and designed exclusively to cater for the needs of all of our customers."

One reason behind the firm's huge success is that the brothers personally ensure all the fabrics they supply are of the highest quality.

Jasvinder explained: "Suppliers are paid to rigorously test the quality of all fabrics before they are sent to UK. The fabrics then undergo further testing by Maharaja in the UK to ensure that the fabrics meet stringent requirements before they are supplied to our retailers.

"Our fabrics are imported from countries including Korea, Indonesia, Japan, China and the Asian sub-continent.

"Whether they are small businesses or large fabric retail companies, we pride ourselves on the fact that we can adapt to meet the needs and requirements of our clients."

Maharaja is well aware that fashions continuously change. It makes sure that its sales representatives work closely with customers to get feedback so Manmohan and Jasvinder are up to date with client needs.

Maharaja has even expanded its interests further into the international markets, recently developing business links with France and Canada.

The firm is set to continue expansion into the rest of Europe as well as Africa and plans to purchase another site in Bradford to grow its retailing operations.

Jasvinder, 37, added: "We expect that as we continue to grow we will be adding to our workforce by at least four more people over the next 12 months.

"We started from nothing, but we have made sure that we look after our clients and ensure our designs and products are as varied as possible.

"Our success is due to the great relationships we have built up with our clients over the years - they know we provide top products.

"Maharaja has meant years of hard work but it has most definitely been worth it.

"I go out on the road three days a week, every week, meeting up with clients across the country, making sure they are getting what they want and discussing ways we can help them.

"If the firm keeps growing the way it has been, I am even on target to fulfil my personal ambition which is to own a Rolls Royce by the time I am 40!"