Kala Gram, a Design Development Centre at the Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (RSK), was established by IIT Kanpur with the goal of using innovation to preserve and revive traditional crafts. The Centre will act as a gathering place for craftspeople to experiment with novel materials, methods, and consumer trends while encouraging cooperation with up-and-coming designers from leading universities to jointly produce goods.
The center's first focus will be on Bithoor pottery, Kalpi handcrafted paper, and Kanpur home furnishings. "Our goal is to rejuvenate these crafts by introducing new design developments, addressing the challenges that artisans face, and bringing fresh appeal to their products," said Rita Singh, RSK's project executive officer.
The Centre would give craftspeople a place to try out new equipment and methods, find market trends, and pick up packaging tips, according to Dr. Monika Thakur, coordinator of KALA GRAM. These interactions would be made easier by partnerships with design studios and institutions, she continued.
This program, which was funded by CSR monies from Philip Morris International's India affiliate (IPM), has already improved the empowerment of women. The initiative to empower regional craftspeople was praised by PMI's Director of External Affairs, Madam Anushree Lakshminarayan.
IIT Kanpur is still dedicated to promoting creativity while protecting India's rich cultural legacy. The institute is helping rural craftspeople make a living while also bridging the gap between traditional craft and modern design through programs like KALA GRAM. IIT Kanpur's goal of empowering people and promoting sustainable development via education and skill development is reflected in this project.
