Here, hope is being woven into eco-friendly rakhis.
The Gram Art Project, started in 2013, is a sustainable initiative that’s empowering village communities through accessories and fabrics made out of desi cotton and seeds.
Started with the motive to save the planet, the collective is hand-spinning sustainable rakhis so you can add a touch of sustainable colour to your celebrations.
The rakhi designs are inspired by nature — think caterpillars to show metamorphosis, bee hives, dragonflies and sunflowers.
Colours come together, woven into patterns that are then shipped across India to doting sisters who will tie them on their brothers’ wrists.
The magic doesn’t end there. Seeds of different kitchen garden plants — basil, roselle, spinach, amaranthus, pumpkin and cucumber — are woven into the tassels at the end of the rakhi and the design in the centre.
All you need to do is cut off the end tassels of the rakhi and sow the seeds in your kitchen garden. You could even sow just the seeds you find in the centre design.
Ordering one of these sustainable rakhis means a triple cause for celebration — you’re saving the planet, starting a garden, and contributing to the financial independence of 300 women.
Check out their beautiful designs here: