Sewa International runs comprehensive skill development programs for artisans, providing training, marketing support, and vital services to women.
In the enchanting realm of Kutch, where creativity knows no bounds, the story of Kutch Kala Sewa unfolded. In the aftermath of any disaster, rehabilitation becomes a critical challenge. While the primary focus is to restore the smooth functioning of people’s lives, it is equally important to foster a connection to local talent & skills, keeping communities rooted in their rich cultural heritage. Recognizing this profound significance, Sewa International embarked on a journey of preserving handicrafts at the grassroot level through the initiative known as “Kutch Kala Sewa” after the devastating Bhuj earthquake in 2001.
Sewa International gauged that craftsmanship holds immense power to contribute to any society recovering from a disaster. To mobilize a disaster stricken community, skills and knowledge are indispensable parts. With great determination, Sewa International collaborated with the women of villages far from Bhuj, breathing life into projects at the local level through “Kutch Handicraft.” Today, 2000+ women are actively engaged in this endeavour.
Sewa International rehabilitated 1800 homes, 14 villages, and the part or full reconstruction of over 200+ schools. As part of their resettlement program, Sewa International runs comprehensive skill development programs for artisans, providing training, marketing support, and vital services to women. The organisation’s unwavering commitment lies in uplifting artisans, enhancing their skills, and building their capacity.
The Sewa International Design & Development Centre (SIDDC), inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2012, embodies the vision of developing local handicraft skills and fostering awareness among the local population. Women from approximately a hundred SHGs are now connected through this centre, which operates in more than sixteen villages. Mr. Yadav reflects on the challenges faced during the centre’s establishment and the subsequent achievements. He proudly notes that Kutch Craft has transcended borders, captivating the world with Gujarat’s unique handicrafts while simultaneously creating local employment opportunities. Today, Sewa International is deeply committed to building sustainable livelihoods for women. Through identifying and motivating underprivileged women in rural areas, organising workshops, and providing financial assistance, Sewa International has positively impacted the lives of people in over fifty villages through its Kutch art project.
Jadavji Bhai Gorasia, Trustee of Sewa International and a Kutch based entrepreneur, highlights the vital role played by Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the Gujarat Rehabilitation Project. He emphasises that such initiatives are instrumental in India’s development, prompting Sewa International to establish projects like the “Skills and Entrepreneurship Development Program” across multiple dimensions. These initiatives not only develop local skills but also bridge the gap between artisans and the market. Sewa Kala Srushti Private Limited was established to facilitate the seamless reach of trained women and their products to the marketplace. Today, Sewa International is actively involved in promoting over a variety of handicrafts from Gujarat.
In an impressive display of resilience and innovation, the women from Momai Maa Mahila Mandal self-help group and Umiya Mahila Mandal have taken a significant stride by launching their products on the global online selling platform, Amazon. This move has opened up vast opportunities, expanding their reach not only within India but also across international markets. Moreover, they have ventured into diversifying their product range, exploring the remarkable block printing technique called Ajrakh.
For the past twenty-five years, Sewa International has been making a transformative impact in India and other countries. Through their disaster relief efforts and diverse initiatives, they have positively impacted over twenty states across the nation. Recently, Sewa International India dedicated its annual report to the Kutch art project, exemplifying the organisation’s unwavering commitment to preserving and promoting local craftsmanship.
Kutch Kala stands as a shining testament to the power of art and community resilience. It showcases the extraordinary potential of empowering women artisans, fostering economic growth, and preserving cultural heritage. Sewa International’s visionary approach has not only revitalised lives but also fostered sustainable livelihoods and unleashed the creative potential of thousands of women in the region.
Shyam Parande, Secretary of Sewa International, said creating sustainable income sources for people is a pivotal task in revitalising lives after a disaster. Recognizing the potential of artisans and their skills, Sewa International harnessed their talents to establish income-generating avenues. By encouraging the creation of value-added productions at the local level, artisans were empowered to leverage quality, innovation, and technology to enhance their handicrafts. The participation of local women in this process was met with great enthusiasm. Sewa International provided comprehensive training to these women, enabling them to flourish.
Today, as Kutch art continues to flourish, reaching new horizons and touching countless lives, we celebrate the indomitable spirit of these artisans. Their resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for communities worldwide. Let us stand in awe of their accomplishments and support initiatives like Kutch Kala Sewa that harness the power of art to build a brighter, more connected, and inclusive future for all.
