SOUTHERN LOOMS

Deep in the Covid-19 lockdown in Bangalore, a mutual friend introduced us to Shreni, an NGO that works with artisans across Southern India, who form a large section of our labour force. Most of these occupations are interwoven with traditional artistry, production systems, and technique that are an invaluable part of India’s rich and diverse historical and cultural capital. 

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One of the sections that has been hit by weak markets and disruption of supply chains is the weavers community. In all, Shreni works with 104 weaver communities across southern Indian. When we crowdfunded and bought outright about 200 sarees from theses weavers, we realised that the products were very superior in design and material whereas the weavers themselves were not benefiting from the market rates that their sarees commanded, sometimes earning hardly 10-15 Rs. margin on their sarees after expenses.

This got us thinking on whether we can bridge the gap and help the weavers get the benefit of fair trade, which has thus far eluded these artisans. We are not unique in our offerings. You may find the same products elsewhere at a lesser prices. But if you can, do support us to help the weavers.