India is the home to handcrafts next to agriculture. Generations and generations have been involved in making handmade products like pots, Saree, match sticks, perfumes, pickles, baskets, sculpture, etc. It used to feed people who are not farmers. But the arrival of industries had set the handcrafts in the back. The industries make bulk products with materials that are cheap and long lasting. Thus it has put down the handcraft market. Because of that the younger generation has moved towards professional education. And the traditional craft making is slowly being forgotten. Hand crafts has filled our nation with colors and joy for years. But the corporate markets are trying to dye them all into a single color.
Handcrafted items are the hope of many people like blind person, mentally challenged person, person from poverty. However the talents of these people are locked behind doors because they don’t have proper awareness about the market for these. And due to that, these people have to sell their crafts at very low prices at roadside shops. The price clearly does not compensate for the amount of effort and time spent making it. Thus making it go in loss and slowly diminish.
Handcrafted items are precious things done by a person with love. They are done in limited quantity. They are done and kept aside as a dream. By that many unique talents are locked inside a room. But it doesn’t have to be like that. Handcrafted items are in demand now more than ever. People are looking for that personal touch. The market is slowly picking up. But it still hasn’t picked up enough to be saved.
There are somethings that need to be done to save the crafts from going instincts.
- We have to spread awareness to the craftsmen about the various platforms available to sell their goods at a good price. The internet has opened great doors for these people. So it is the duty of the educated to teach these craftsmen the probability they have. Sites like etsy, craftsvilla, amazon, saffronart, the india craft house, artyowl, etc. Lets them sell their products at a good price.
- The government must provide a certificate deeming it exclusively handmade and thus increasing its value.
- The business men must invest in these business. They must provide the financial support to keep these traditions alive. Even normal people can donate as much as they can. At least don’t bargain with these people to sell their crafts cheaper. These businesses need investments to thrive.
It’s our duty as a nation to keep our colors to be alive. Lets encourage it. Let’s protect it. Let’s grow it.
