I finally had the chance to visit Saheli Women, located just outside Jodhpur. This social enterprise, founded and run by the wonderful Madhu, aims to financially empower women in rural Rajasthan by developing their craft skills.
Madhu gave us a tour, and her own story is inspirational in itself. The space where the women dye, block print, pattern-cut and stitch is a serene yet vibrant haven, filled with the gentle buzz of women working away while nattering and laughing together. They use entirely natural fabrics and predominantly natural dyes, and have now taken things a step further by growing their own cotton — no small undertaking.
We spoke at length about craftsmanship and the cotton industry: the challenges these sectors face, but also the possibilities. With people like Madhu leading the way, there is real opportunity for revival, repair and growth.
