Threads of empowerment: The Okhai movement transforming rural artisans lives

Fuelled by the passion and skill of rural women like Himaben, Okhai has become a catalyst for change, empowering over 29,575 artisans by bridging them to patrons across the world through its dynamic marketplace.

In a serene corner of Okhamandal, the rhythmic melody of a Gujarati song blends seamlessly with the gentle clinking of mirrors as Himaben meticulously weaves them into the fabric. Her nimble hands move with practiced grace that is a testament to the legacy of Saurashtra craftsmanship. Surrounded by fellow artisans, Himaben weaves narrative of heritage and pride. Her designs whisper the ultimate beauty, and each pattern is not just a textile creation, but a work of art that carries the essence of a community’s history. The art truly stands as a luminous testament to the magnificence of Saurashtra’s time-honoured traditions.

“For years, Okhai has been our guiding light,” Himaben confides, her eyes gleamed with a newfound sense of purpose. “We never imagined the depth of worth in our ancestral craft. Witnessing our creations cherished and acquired by people worldwide is nothing short of a dream awakened to reality.”

Fuelled by the passion and skill of rural women like Himaben, Okhai has become a catalyst for change, empowering over 29,575 artisans by bridging them to patrons across the world through its dynamic marketplace. Okhai was started by Tata Chemicals Society for Rural Development (TCSRD) and it has been instrumental in offering essential entrepreneurial training to members of self-help groups, fostering the formation of six vibrant clusters in Mithapur. Here, tales of tradition and artistry are woven into every product, from the mesmerizing allure of bandhani textiles to the meticulous brilliance of beadwork. Through Okhai’s digital platform and one bespoke retail outlet, these masterpieces journey from the heart of Mithapur to the homes and hearts of patrons, echoing stories of empowerment and artistic prowess with every thread.

Okhai specializes in providing affordable, modern designs while empowering artisans from underprivileged backgrounds. By fostering skill acquisition and self-confidence, Okhai aims to enable women to generate their own income and expand their influence. Rooted in the vibrant traditions of rural communities, Okhai seamlessly blends cultural heritage with contemporary designs and advanced techniques, creating unique products that reflect the essence of their rich cultural legacy.

Fostering a culture of upskilling and marketing, Okhai stands as a beacon of hope for rural and semi-urban women, rekindling forgotten handicraft techniques that bear the hallmark of time. With incomes ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 16,000 per month, artisans find the flexibility to work from the comfort of their homes, ensuring a delicate balance between household responsibilities and professional pursuits. Comprehensive training programs, infused with technological advancements and guided by the latest trends, have not only enhanced their skills but also instilled a newfound sense of financial stability and independence.

Okhai’s impact transcends economic empowerment, delving deep into the cultural fabric of India. Embracing sustainability as its cornerstone, Okhai was recently honoured at the SustainableNXT Awards 2023, heralded as the Ethical D2C Fashion Brand of the Year. With each stitch spun and every thread woven, Okhai and its women artisans weave a narrative of resilience, empowerment, and cultural preservation, bringing India’s rich legacy to the world, one artisan’s story at a time. ITJ extends its best wishes to Okhai and numerous other companies that support women in rural areas across the nation and around the globe, on this occasion of Rural Women’s