How Indian Crafts Are Getting Global Recognition
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How Indian Crafts Are Getting Global Recognition

Imagine a world where intricate embroidery, hand-woven tapestries, and gleaming metalwork transcend geographical borders. For centuries, Indian crafts have captivated the world with their vibrant colours, intricate designs, and meticulous artisanship. But in recent years, there’s been a surge in global recognition for these exquisite craft forms. India’s rich visual heritage boasts a staggering variety. From the meticulously woven silks of Kanchipuram, Dokhra from Odisha, enticing silver art of Bidri, and Sherpai Bowls to the vibrant clay figurines of Bengal, each region possesses its own unique craftmanship. This rich tapestry of talent is finally getting the recognition it deserves, with over 7 million skilled artisans and 67,000 exporters bringing Indian handicrafts to a worldwide audience. So, what’s behind this surge in appreciation? Here are some key factors increasing the demand of Indian Crafts: Unequalled Skills: Indian crafts boast a legacy of exceptional skills passed down through generations. Artisans possess an unmatched ability to breathe life into textiles, metals, and wood using techniques honed over centuries. The intricate details and flawless finishing of these crafts set them apart from mass-produced goods.  A Celebration of Diversity: India’s vast geographical expanse translates into a stunning diversity of crafts. From the delicate embroidery of Kashmir to the block-printed wonders of Ajrakh, each region boasts its own unique style and specialty. This diversity caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making Indian crafts appealing to a global audience.  A Story in Every Stitch: Each handcrafted product carries a unique story and cultural significance. Whether it’s a meticulously embroidered Phulkari shawl from Punjab or a hand-painted Madhubani artwork, these crafts embody the traditions and heritage of their regions. According to a report by the Indian Ministry of Textiles, India’s handloom exports rose 6.71% year-on-year to $11.7 billion in 2023–24, showcasing a significant rise in recent years.  Embrace of Sustainability: In a world increasingly concerned about environmental impact, Indian crafts resonate with their eco-friendly nature. Many crafts use locally sourced materials and natural dyes, making them a sustainable alternative to factory-made products. This resonates with environmentally conscious consumers around the globe.   Fusion with Modernity: While tradition remains at the core, Indian crafts are experiencing a refreshing revival through contemporary design interventions. Artisans are collaborating with designers to create pieces that bridge the gap between heritage and modernity. This fusion results in products that find a place in modern homes while preserving ancient techniques.  Collaborations and Exhibitions: Collaborations between Indian artisans and international designers have further elevated the status of Indian crafts. These collaborations have resulted in innovative products that blend traditional techniques with contemporary designs, appealing to a wider audience. Moreover, international exhibitions and trade fairs, such as the Santa Fe Indian Market, the International Gifts & Handicraft Fair, and the International Folk Art Market, have provided Indian artisans with platforms to showcase their talents and attract global buyers.  E-commerce and Online Marketplaces: The digital age has played a pivotal role in propelling Indian crafts onto the global stage. E-commerce platforms and online marketplaces have created a bridge between artisans and international consumers. This eliminates geographical barriers and allows artisans to showcase their work to a wider audience.  Quality and Authenticity: One of the most compelling aspects of Indian crafts is the quality and authenticity they offer. Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, these products are a far cry from mass-produced items. The global market’s growing inclination towards sustainable and ethically made products has further bolstered the demand for Indian crafts. Consumers are increasingly valuing the authenticity, artisanship, and cultural significance that Indian artisanal products bring. A report by Technavio predicts that the global handicrafts market will reach USD 723.6 billion at a CAGR of 13.1% by 2028, indicating a promising future for Indian crafts. This global recognition is not just about economic benefits. It’s about preserving a rich cultural heritage and empowering local artisans. Ensuring fair wages for artisans, protecting the intellectual property rights of traditional designs, and fostering sustainable practices are crucial aspects that need continuous attention. As Indian crafts find a place in homes worldwide, they carry with them the stories and traditions of India, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural tapestry. The future of Indian crafts looks bright. With continued government support, innovation, and adaptation, these timeless art forms are poised to not only captivate the world but also inspire future generations of artisans to keep this incredible legacy alive.   Disclaimer: Neelam Chhiber, Director at Flourish Planet Private Limited, is the author of this article.

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Celebrating NGO That Support Textile Industries of India On The Frontlines
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Celebrating NGO That Support Textile Industries of India On The Frontlines

Celebrating NGOs on the Frontlines of India’s Textile Renaissance Celebrating NGOs on the Frontlines of India’s Textile As the world commemorates NGO Day on February 27th, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes driving change within India’s vibrant textile industry. Beyond the intricate weaves and rich hues lies a tapestry of stories where NGOs play a pivotal role in preserving heritage, empowering artisans, and fostering sustainable practices. Join us as we delve into the inspiring initiatives and impactful interventions that are weaving a brighter future for Indian textiles, one thread at a time. The artisans of Indian handlooms and handicrafts could use all the assistance they can get. These NGOs and organisations are making a small effort to prevent the extinction of these ancient customs. 1. Aadyam Handwoven An initiative of the Aditya Birla Group, Aadyam Handwoven is a social cause that attempts to create a self-sustaining ecosystem for the most gifted artisans in the country. They currently work with three weaver communities in India: Varanasi, Pochampally, and Bhuj. The organization helps weavers by opening up new markets and ensuring benefits that will create value for the community. 2. 200 Million Artisans This initiative is dedicated to the 200 million people who depend on craft for their livelihood. As an impact-first ecosystem enabler, they partner with organisations to generate insight and inspire action that will benefit the artisan ecosystem. They have registered a huge impact through their work, with 30+ fundraisers showcased, raising $30,000 and positively influencing 10,000 artisans across 13 states. 3. Creative Dignity Creative Dignity is a movement that has brought together over 500 diverse creative producers, small enterprises, civil society organisations and professionals to support artisans and uplift them, particularly in the COVID-19 era. They focus on providing relief and work towards the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of artisans to ensure their sustainable prosperity. 4. All India Artisans and Craftworkers Welfare Association All India Artisans and Craftworkers Welfare Association (AIACA) is a membership-based non-profit organisation, AIACA was established in 2004. Ever since, they have been working towards the preservation of India’s diverse handloom and handicraft sectors. AIACA engages in policy research and advocacy, implementing a range of programmes that uplift craft producers, and provide them with access to mainstream markets. 5. Dastkari Haat Samiti This is a national association of craftsperson’s that hail from regions all over India. Jaya Jaitley, a social and political activist, established it in 1986. Since then, it has helped artisans gain the dignity and self-confidence to have their own voice. Today, the collective has more than 1,600 members, including individual artists and organisations. They are also the brain behind the ever-popular Dilli Haat, a haat-style market located in India’s capital city, that helps traditional artisans market their products. 6. Craft Revival Trust   The Craft Revival Trust, established in 1999, is a non-profit organisation that has been relentlessly working towards the revival of folk art, crafts, and textiles, and their practitioners. Some of their most prominent initiatives include Asia InCH, under which there has been the creation of an encyclopedia and resource base for the craft and textile sector. Researchers, students, and customers from all over the world can easily access the information, which is also a repository of knowledge for artisans and weavers. 7. Industree Foundation Started in 2000, the Industree Foundation tackles poverty through the creation of an ownership-based, organised creative manufacturing ecosystem for women. The organisation works with women entrepreneurs and artisans, particularly those who belong to the marginalised communities in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and even Ethiopia. Through their interventions, the Foundation has impacted over 50,00,000 producers over the last two decades. Moreover, they have created markets worth USD 58 million. That is how this year we are celebrating World NGO Day; we are reminding the nation about those silent heroes who are making the textiles and crafting industries better for the world!  

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Rubans Accessories latest collection
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Rubans Accessories latest collection

Rubans Accessories latest collection, India’s go-to destination for all things jewellery, has launched a fun and elegant silver oxidized collection, Mridang that will take care of all the jewellery we’ll need this season. Rubans Accessories is the brainchild of Chinu Kala, a creative entrepreneur whose story is nothing short of a fairytale. Chinu, a first generation entrepreneur, has managed to build a thriving empire from scratch which has close to a million happy customers across the country. With a thousand plus designs in western and ethnic jewellery, the brand works with artisans from Jaipur, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata among others to design and manufacture intricately designed, hand crafted pieces with utmost attention to detail and quality. Mridang is a miscellany that they have all been dearly waiting for. Mesmerizing oxidized silver coupled with mellifluous ghungroos are a match made in heaven. The bohemian-meets-regal vibes of this collection are super versatile and have been designed while keeping in mind the rustic and tribal influences that have dominated our hearts when it comes to silver jewellery. The old world charm of this collection is supremely alluring and can be paired with a variety of outfits. Watch out for the miniature ghungroos in this collection – they’re surely going to make a statement and be the centre of attention whenever worn. Silver oxidized collection includes the fusion of kundan elements with oxidised look. Bold and statement pieces to stand out. Bunch of ghunghroos is the focus point in necklaces. Rustic and tribal. Not only are the collections fascinating, but so is the story that narrates the journey of this first generation entrepreneur, who has managed to build an empire from scratch. Today, Chinu prides herself on Rubans Accessories being one of the only brands in the country to offer a wide range of products in both western and ethnic categories. Rubans Accessories’ latest collection, is close to a million happy customers across the country, the brand works with artisans from Jaipur, Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata among others to design and manufacture intricately designed, hand crafted pieces. Their latest collection Inayat, a beautiful fusion of traditional with contemporary, is an ode to the many millennial women who wish to experiment with snazzy yet classy styles. Rubans Accessories latest collection

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DASTKAR BAZAAR BENGALURU
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DASTKAR BAZAAR BENGALURU

Dastkar Bazaar celebrated its 16th edition of Handicrafts and lifestyle exhibition at the Jayamahal Palace Hotel in Namma Bengaluru. Over 1 lakh artisans apply for the Dastkaar Bazaar event every year.  Bringing in the creation of many crafts renewal and self-sustainable craft community development projects, which later grew independently into the most successful stories in the Indian Craft Sector. The event had more than 100 craftsmen groups from 20+ states across India within one platform. Dastkar Bazaar also provided funds through Artisan Support Funds by sending basic needs and wages. This gave a boost to all the artisans to sell their products on the marketing platforms under one roof. The DASTKAR BAZAAR offered a wide range of Handicraft products from lifestyle accessories, silver jewelry, carved furniture, decorative products, pottery & ceramics, fiber crafts, leather products, traditional paintings, hand-woven baskets, embroideries, block printed textiles etc. The event also included live workshops like pottery, nib painting, wooden carving and basket weaving. Dastkar released new range of products that were conceptualized during the lockdown period like Kantha Embroidery, Golden grass weaving, seashell products, leatherwork and Jamdani from West Bengal. Madhubani painting, silk weaving and wood crafts from Bihar. Pattachitra, Sabai grass weaving, Ikat weaving from Orissa. All these classified as East Indian Arts. Whereas Handicrafts from West India included like Patchwork, Dabu, Recycled fabric work, Meenakari, Miniature painting, Blue pottery and thread work from Rajasthan. Leatherwork, Ajrakh block printing, Applique work from Gujrat and Upcycled hand woven products and Crystal work from Maharashtra. From the North India Ari and sonzi embroidery and Pashminas from Jammu and Kashmir. Marble carving, Handloom weaving, Kite making, Khurja painted pottery and Crystal work from Uttar Pradesh. Sheep and yak wool weaving and Thangka painting from Himachal Pradesh and Jute work and patchwork from Uttarakhand. Lastly Handicrafts from South India included Kalamkari, Mangalgiri from Andhra Pradesh. Banana Fiber Weaving, Khadi weaving, Lambani embroideries, Metalwork and Mural paintings from Karnataka. Tanjore painting, Organic brushes from Tamil Nadu and Handloom weaving, Ikat Weaving, Kalamkari printing and Natural Dyeing from Telangana. The Dastkar Bazaar made a very significant impact on all, after a year of struggles during the pandemic and making the art work themselves gave people a sense of satisfaction. Along with the Handicrafts, the visitors could indulge themselves with lip smacking snacks from all across India. The event was a huge success. DASTKAR BAZAAR BENGALURU

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Unwind and Reconnect with Handmade Love.
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Unwind and Reconnect with Handmade Love.

A very special event took place at Bangalore International Center, The Handmade Collective by A Hundred Hands. As it was put on hold last year because of the pandemic, the craft festival was back in Bengaluru and was pitched to a very relevant theme: “that of reconnection” which conveys that the artisans would reconnect with their craft and with one another but also to reconnect with the members of the public from whom they drew inspiration and encouragement. The event was held at Bangalore International Center (BIC), Domlur, Bangalore on 20th & 21st February 2021 and was fully packed with workshops and demos. It was the most enriching programme in the city. There were over 60 participating artist groups from urban and rural India, some of them of who held workshops and demos as well. The display had a variety of textiles, handloom materials, jewellery, artworks, pottery on display and the visitors were thronged. The display had a range from crafts showcasing Indian art and craft traditions, including bead craft from Khambhat that dates back to the Harappan Civilization. There were also several workshops and masterclasses held on both days which included hand-building with clay, basics of kitchen gardening, block printing for children, etc. On Sunday, 21st February, there was a masterclass for Mughal painting, a doll-making workshop, a leather puppet and lamp painting workshop, and a talk on natural dyes. Along with this, there were food stalls as well which were mostly vegan which were put up by home chefs. There were sweets and confectionery, Snacks, short eats etc and brands like Janes’s Home Bake, Dittoo, Just Trufs, Uppu Thuppa etc. There were a lot of Professionals taking break from their work and venturing into the home chef business and letting us get a taste of their preparations. The Handmade Collective took a very special significance against the backdrop of the pandemic and the struggles that the artisans had to endure. It worked towards a simpler life! Built a community of people who enjoy working with their hands, making things themselves and thrive on the deep sense of satisfaction it offers! Unwind and Reconnect with Handmade Love.

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