India has a rich handloom heritage. It is a remarkable example of centuries-old craftsmanship and artistry. On this Handloom Day, WeAct pays tribute to its women members, who are the lifeblood of this tradition, transforming threads into stunning works of art. These women, often working in rural areas, blend intricate techniques with innovative designs, preserving and enriching our cultural fabric. Their dedication keeps age-old traditions alive and shapes contemporary fashion with timeless elegance.
Handloom Day is more than just a celebration of traditional weaving; it is a recognition of the resilience and creativity of WeAct women artisans who continue to excel despite numerous challenges. From navigating the complexities of credit management to marketing their unique creations, WeAct women embody the spirit of perseverance.
As we honour these extraordinary women on Handloom Day, we also recognise the vital role of support systems that empower them. Organisations such as the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), with its Hand Made in India (HMI) initiative, provide essential resources and guidance. Their efforts help our members expand their businesses, gain recognition, and become integral members of the WeAct.
Today, we not only celebrate the contributions of WeAct women to the handloom industry but also emphasise the importance of continued support in nurturing their talent and ensuring the sustainability of this cherished craft.
Please continue reading to learn about the journey of WeAct entrepreneurs in the handloom sector.
Ms. Junuka Deka’s entrepreneurial journey began in Bahana, Kamrup, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship. Despite daily struggles to make ends meet, Junuka's determination remained strong. Hope came when an EDII professional introduced her to loan opportunities like the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY).
Junuka secured a Rs. 1,70,000 loan from Punjab National Bank under NRLM, overcoming documentation hurdles. She invested in raw materials for Mekhela Chador Sarees, a traditional Assamese attire. With support from EDII and HSBC, her business grew from a modest Rs. 9,000 monthly income to Rs. 25,000.
However, her dreams remained ambitious, which led her to join WeAct to develop her business further. Aiming to gain market access and enhance business and product development, she became a member of WeAct and continues to grow her business with the support of its various services.
In the Dangasiya village of Surendranagar, Jyotsnaben Parmar’s 16-year journey with her Tangaliya handloom business is a powerful example of resilience and determination. Her financial constraints often clouded her aspirations. A breakthrough came in 2019 when the EDII offered crucial support. Their guidance and insights into financial management helped Jyotsnaben navigate the complex world of banking loans and credit, though challenges like slow responses and cumbersome processes remained.
Nonetheless, EDII’s encouragement and the support of HMI Surendranagar Cluster Professionals kept her motivated. By January 2022, Jyotsnaben secured a loan of Rs. 4,00,000 under the Shree Vajpayee Bankable Yojana Scheme, marking an essential moment in her journey.
With this financial boost, she expanded her production under the guidance of WeAct’s product and business development services, increasing her monthly income from Rs. 13,000–15,000 to Rs. 25,000–28,000. Joining WeAct has improved her business and positively impacted her personal life, inspiring others to pursue their dreams with determination.
In Maheshwar, Aarti Bichhve, a 33-year-old rural entrepreneur, transformed her dream into reality by weaving Maheshwari sarees and other textiles. Facing challenges in credit management and marketing, Aarti received support from EDII in 2019.
With their guidance, she secured an Rs. 1,00,000 loan in 2022 under the PMMY, overcoming banking hurdles. This financial boost and support from HMI Maheshwar Cluster helped her increase her income from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 20,000 monthly.
Aarti's dedication drove her to join WeAct, where she focused on creating innovative, high-quality products that earned recognition from Bollywood celebrities. By revitalising a traditional craft and empowering local artisans, Aarti has significantly expanded her business and contributed to preserving heritage crafts.
Deepa's story of resilience unfolds in the village of Allikuttai in Salem. Starting with humble beginnings, she dedicated five years to her Silk Saree and Aari embroidery business, facing numerous challenges. Before 2020, managing her small business was tough, with limited resources and knowledge of banking procedures, making loans seem unattainable.
EDII became Deepa’s strength. They guided her through credit management and the Magalir Thittam Scheme, securing a loan of Rs. 3,28,980 for business expansion. Despite initial hurdles, including a lack of a bank account and difficulties with documentation, EDII’s support was invaluable.
Deepa's income, which was previously just Rs. 2,500 a month, rose to Rs. 22,000 with the support of HMI EDII. However, she aspired for more and joined WeAct, where she utilised services such as branding and marketing to reach a broader customer base. In addition to gaining more customers, she also built a valuable network with her peers through participation in WeAct exhibitions.
In Kamrup’s Kulhati, Mrs. Mahima Das continued weaving traditional Mekhela Chador, Gamosa, and Riha for fifteen years despite financial struggles.
However, her fortunes began to change with the support of the EDII-HMI Kamrup Cluster. Through their guidance, Mahima accessed credit schemes that rekindled her hopes. With a loan of Rs. 1,50,000 from the NRLM, she acquired an advanced handloom and transformed her business.
Along with acquiring a loan, she was also keen on having her presence on digital platforms. In addition to securing the loan, she was eager to establish a digital presence. Joining WeAct proved to be a boon for her goals, as it is now helping her create her website and set up a social media account to increase the visibility of her products.
Her monthly income of Rs. 6,000 grew to a flourishing Rs. 12,000, reflecting her perseverance and the impact of EDII's support. As her business thrived, so did her household’s prosperity, and Mahima’s dreams for her daughter began to take shape. With strategic marketing guidance from EDII, Mahima’s creations reached new audiences through malls and exhibitions.
Conclusion
WeAct honours the women who are the heart and soul of India’s handloom tradition. Their dedication and resilience have transformed traditional techniques into contemporary masterpieces, bridging the past and future. The stories of Junuka, Jyotsnaben, Aarti, Deepa, and Mahima illustrate the powerful impact of support systems like EDII-HMI and WeAct, which empower these artisans to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. As we reflect on their journeys, let us recognise that their success celebrates individual perseverance and urges us to continue nurturing and supporting their invaluable craft.