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Kamli
A single mom, in rural India
August 27, 2020
Moolaram Chauhan
Back home after two decades
August 29, 2020

From a shy mother to a determined leader

prem

I was getting ready to attend a wedding when Harfool ji, the branch manager approached my husband if I would be allowed to go around the village to check looms. My husband steadfastly agreed without hesitation, not knowing I was petrified, for I did not know what he signed me up for. I had been invited to attend this three-day training at Narhet, where details about my so-called new work would then be described to me. I didn’t feel like going to the wedding anymore.

My name is Prem Devi, I’m 30 years old and a mother of three. I’m not a very talkative person and seldom socialize. Being a mother is my pride and joy of living. I bring some extra money into the household by weaving rugs, it is something that I’ve loved practicing for over 7 years now. So, when I heard about the new job role and the training, I was terrified. I didn’t sleep for days. What would I be expected to do? Is it really worth it? Will I be able to do it? Who will take care of my kids? I had many thoughts digging a hole inside me.

The training surprised me in many ways. I made new friends, who were on the same page as I was – absolutely curious and blank. It was then that I realized the purpose of the training. The foundation (JRF), was identifying and developing leaders they called Bunkar Sakhi – a weaver’s companion, who would be responsible for maintaining quality. As I diligently absorbed the training, I knew I had to work hard to prove them right about me. It was probably the first time in years that I felt powerful.

Today, I am responsible for quality maintenance for 100 artisans. As I look back at my life, I comprehend the difference it has made in me and among people around me. I believe that more than quality, it is my relationship with weavers that has strengthened in the last two years. Earlier, the quality supervisors were men. Although extremely capable, it was challenging for women in our village to talk openly about their problems and shortcomings at work. There was always a strong disconnect between the producers and supervisors. With me in the picture, weavers willingly share their problems and we swiftly find solutions too!

I love being a weaver’s friend, a guide – a Bunkar Sakhi, as it has transformed my existence as an individual and changed the course of my life. From someone who hesitated to consciously get out of her house, to visiting every loom in the village every day, I feel empowered. Nothing is impossible.

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Rural Excursion

Make it a day they’ll never forget.

Booking through our foundation gives you direct access to more heritage-rich villages and the chance to explore a wider range of crafts, history and tradition.

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Package Overview

Ajabgarh

A historic town, established by Ajab Singh Rajawat, son of Madho Singh ji of Jaipur. This town is near to Bhangarh which is considered as one of the most haunted places of India. Name of Ajabgarh also in use by locals with Bhangarh. As per one of the folklore story, these places were center of black magic and people used to beat each other in competition. Many stories revolves around the black magician and princess of the area. But as per one of the source it is believed that these historic towns became ruins due to their war to each-other.

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Asspura

Aspura is a mystic village in the lap of Aravalli Hills, Rajasthan. Established 500 years ago, it was where the saint, Ram Das medidated and found spiritual liberation to bring its name, ‘As’, where wishes come true. It is located 75km North of Jaipur city not far off the SH 37 highway. While rug weaving is the most common expression of art in the region, you’ll find maandana, mojri and mehandi being practiced as well. The towns spiritual significance is highlighted by a unique temple in the vicinity.

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Maanpura

Manpura-Macheri are 2 villages brought together as one because of their proximity. Part of the Samode region, this historical town was started by a landlord (zamindar) called Man Singh Shekhawat 450 years ago. It is located 40km North of Jaipur, Rajasthan, a small detour off the NH 48 highway. It is home to craftsmen in weaving and leather work, and you will see hints of a retained heritage in the architecture of the village. Its fields and hills in the scenery keep it connected to mother-nature.

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Samode

Samode is a village in Rajasthan, which belonged to the landlords known as ‘zamindars’ (in Hindi language) of the principal Thakurs of the state of Amber. It shot into prominence due to the Thakurs lineage traced to Maja Rajveer Singhji, the 17th prince of the house of Kacchwaha Rajput. Samode was bequeathed to Gopal Singhji one of his 12 sons, as a noble feudatory of the Amber and Jaipur principality. Samode was, even then, considered a very rich town under the kingdom of Amber.


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