Story Two
1. From Forest Roots to Global Reach
The Women Behind Banana Fibre Creations
In the lush, rain-kissed villages of Malnad, a group of women once worked quietly within their homes, weaving banana fibre products only for local markets.
When they formed a Self-Help Group under the Crafts of Malnad initiative, everything changed.
Through collective savings, skill training, and market linkage support:
- Their designs became refined
- Product quality improved
- Packaging and branding elevated their work
- Online sales opened new markets
Today, their eco-friendly baskets, handbags, and décor pieces travel beyond Karnataka — reaching homes across India.
What was once a small village craft is now a source of pride and steady income.
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2. Reviving Hase Chittara Through Collective Strength
Preserving Sacred Wall Art Traditions
Hase Chittara, a traditional folk art of Malnad, was once limited to wedding rituals and festive occasions.
A group of rural women artisans, united as a Self-Help Group, decided to preserve this sacred art form.
With support and structured market access:
- They adapted traditional motifs into modern wall décor
- Learned finishing and framing techniques
- Participated in exhibitions and digital sales platforms
Today, their artwork decorates urban homes while preserving cultural authenticity.
The SHG not only revived an art form — it restored dignity to generations of inherited skill.
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3. Carving Identity in Wood
Sagara Wood Carving Artisan Collective
In Sagara, known for its intricate wood carvings, artisans struggled with fluctuating demand and limited exposure.
Through collective organization and SHG formation:
- Artisans pooled resources
- Improved production consistency
- Accessed institutional orders
- Leveraged digital platforms for visibility
Now, handcrafted wooden panels and sculptures find markets beyond regional boundaries.
The SHG model transformed individual craftsmen into an empowered collective enterprise.
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4. Chikbalrampura Leather Art
Crafting Tradition with Skill
In the small village of Chikbalrampura, leather artisans have practiced traditional leather craftsmanship for decades. Using natural tanning techniques and detailed handwork, artisans create beautiful handcrafted items such as wallets, bags, decorative pieces, and utility products.
Many of these artisans come from rural families where craftsmanship has been passed down through generations. However, limited access to markets and resources once restricted their growth.
The formation of Self Help Groups changed this reality. By coming together, artisans were able to pool resources, learn improved production techniques, and participate in government-supported training and exhibitions. SHGs helped artisans gain financial independence, access micro-credit, and build stronger community networks.
Women artisans, in particular, have become active participants in these groups, contributing significantly to family income and community empowerment.
Today, Chikbalrampura leather artisans continue to blend traditional skills with contemporary designs, creating products that appeal to modern customers while preserving the authenticity of handmade craftsmanship.
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5. Empowering Rural Artisans Through Community
The Legacy Keepers of Bidri Craft
For generations, artisans in Karnataka have preserved the intricate art of Bidri metal craft, a centuries-old technique where delicate silver designs are inlaid on a blackened alloy of zinc and copper. The craft traces its origins to Bidar and has been practiced for more than 500 years, passed down from one generation of artisans to another.
In recent years, many artisans faced declining income, rising raw material costs, and shrinking market opportunities. To address these challenges, artisan communities began organizing themselves into Self Help Groups (SHGs). These groups enabled craftsmen to collectively access bank loans, skill training, and marketing opportunities.
Through cluster development initiatives and training programs, several SHGs were formed, covering hundreds of artisans and providing them with improved tools, design workshops, and exposure to national exhibitions.
Today, these artisan groups continue to revive Bidri craft by creating contemporary home décor, jewellery, and heritage collectibles. Their work represents not only craftsmanship but also resilience — a community working together to preserve an ancient art form for future generations.
Through platforms like Crafts of Malnad, these artisans are gaining new visibility and connecting their timeless craft with modern global audiences.
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Crafts Of Malnad
Managed by the Zilla Panchayat, Shivamogga, Crafts of Malnad connects timeless craftsmanship with today’s world—preserving heritage, empowering artisans, and offering creations that embody authenticity, sustainability, and quiet luxury.