I would like to mention an initiative which is not quite new (it was launched in 2005), but which has just come to my attention. The Government of Rajasthan, headed by Vasundhara Raje, is undertaking ‘Fashion for Development’, which aims to promote traditional weaving and craftsmaking with a more modern, marketable edge. This includes Kota doria handloom made with eco-friendly dyes, which designers have chosen for their collection; cotton and woolen khadi from Jaipur and Bikaner districts, which during the independence struggle became community movement; and eco-friendly handicrafts from the Tal Chapar Black Buck Sanctuary.
Raje was awarded a “U.N. Women Together Award” for this project, ‘recognizing her understanding compassion of the miseries of the citizens of Rajasthan as well as her long lasting dedication to social causes’. She said:
“This is the day to remember for the women artisans of Rajasthan. My presence at the ceremony is dedicated to the enterprise and skill of women in Rajasthan…Today, 1,30,000 Women Self Help groups are proudly and efficiently dealing micro-credit worth Rs. 1600 Million and are attending to the consumptive and economic needs of their families. …The fabric I am wearing today (pink and gold Kota doria Saree) is an example of their magic…This honour rightfully belongs to the women of Rajasthan.”
See the video here.
One of the designers involved in the initiative is Bibi Russell, a former fashion model from Bangladesh. She is a UNESCO Artist for Peace, and last May held a show called ‘Fashion for Development’ at the UN headquarters in New York showcasing Bangladeshi and Rajasthani designs. I would love to hear more about how and what the project is doing now. Listen to a story about Bibi here.
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