Using natural materials and processes in the crafting process can help reduce carbon footprint, and make the manufacturing process more environmentally-friendly. Several Indian handicrafts and artisans have embraced this ideology, reducing the environmental impact of India’s handcrafted products.
Traditional Indian crafts and artistry can benefit greatly through access to online and urban markets via social enterprises. Ziveli is such a social enterprise, bringing the kauna craft-work of Manipur to the world.
The craft of camel bone artistry is one of the most intricate art forms indigenous to India. A master artist is toiling hard to protect the art from the brink of extinction.
As more and more Indian corporations and businesses grow and expand, the culture of corporate gifting is also seeing increased adoption. Through a simple decision to buy handcrafted products, corporate houses can turn this gifting culture into income and employment opportunities for rural Indian artisans.
The Sandur Kushala Kala Kendra is an art center in Sandur working towards bringing national and international recognition to the traditional Lambani art. This organization markets the Arts & Crafts made by the women in local villages.
Why buy handmade? What difference will it make? Who will it impact? These are just some of the questions that need answering when one discusses hand-crafted goods. There are plenty of reasons to support the handmade movement, and many initiatives, taken by both government and non-governmental institutions, to help the same bloom.
Many traditional Indian arts and crafts have been lost due to lack of support for the artisans. Now, a family from a small village in Kutch is trying to keep the rapidly dying handicraft of Khavda Pottery alive, despite a lack of external support.
Despite challenges of several kinds, a 70-year-old man is credited with keeping the art of bone carving still alive in the Barabanki region of Uttar Pradesh. Nishita Banerjee recently met him and learned about his craft and trade.