Multidesigner store, Amiraah, and Lucknow-based Indian arts and crafts reseller, Sanatkada, have together launched a virtual shopping festival called “Karigari” featuring products from Indian artisan groups, the proceeds of which go directly to the artisans.
The online shopping fair, which will continue until May 26, features artisan groups that create everything from jewellery, handmade fabrics, home décor and other handicrafts. Through Karigari, both Amiraah and Santkada have categorised each artisan group separately, throwing light on their craft and products individually. Some of them include Al Maun, a group of ten marble artisans working in the city of Agra; Rekhahriti, which works with artisans that make wooden toys, home decor items and other biodegradable and sustainable products; and Abdul Rahim Khatri, a national award winning young Ajrakh block printer from Kutch, Gujarat.
As the second wave of the pandemic rages on in the country, many, including small scale businesses and rural artisans have suffered economically with lack of demand and cancellation of orders. In a social media post about the virtual fair that is promoting many Indian artisans, Amiraah said, “Through Karigari, we wanted to make a real sustainable long-term impact as these artisans are the backbone of the industry and we want to bring them back on their feet. By promoting these artisans, we aim to give them a platform that uplifts them.”
Image Source: Instagram/amiraah_designs