Kala Raksha Trust, a grassroots social enterprise, is dedicated
to preservation of traditional arts. We envision this broadly, as holistic
encouraging of the creative capacity of the artist.
Comprising artisans, community members, and experts in the
fields of art, design and museums, Kala Raksha was founded on artisan
initiative in 1993 in the desert region Kutch, in India.
Uniquely committed to documenting existing traditions, the
Trust maintains a collection of heirloom textiles housed locally as
a Resource Center and Museum. Artisans participated in establishing
Kala Raksha’s Museum. Thus it embodies a simple but revolutionary
concept: involve people in presenting their own cultures.
Artisan initiative and participation continue to be the pillars
of Kala Raksha’s work. Artisan Design Committees study the collections
to create exquisite contemporary work. Artisan Pricing Committees establish
fair wages. On the average, 30% of the price you pay for a Kala Raksha
product goes to the artisan’s workmanship. Finally, artisans
participate in sale of their work, linking them directly to their market.
Kala Raksha produces some of the most exquisitely hand embroidered
and patchworked products made in Kutch. Using only natural fibers
and wherever possible natural dyes, the Trust makes a wide range of
garments, accessories and home furnishings.
Income generation is the beginning of comprehensive development. Kala
Raksha artisans also attend integrated Preventive Health Care and Basic
Education Programs. A curriculum of nutrition, hygiene, economics and
management empowers their participation in Trust and community. Artisans
also manage their income through savings groups.
Honoree of the 2001 International Responsible Tourism Showcase,
Kala Raksha Centre is located in Sumrasar Sheikh, 25 km north
of Bhuj. Here, the museum, production unit, shop and guest house
inhabit structures that adapt traditional architecture to contemporary
function. A model for community development, the Centre is locally
managed and operates with solar powered electricity.
What Kala Raksha preserves is the essence of art. Traditions
are preserved when they flourish.
