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Antarang works with Patwa- threaded craft jewellery, age-old traditional art of Hand stitched Quilting, hand made & hand painted Terracotta products. We uplift artisans through employability and economic development. Reviving traditional art as per modern needs bridging the gap between the art form and current needs. We do mindful manufacturing which is craft and design driven, providing employment opportunities to Women & Persons with Disablities (PwD’s) in Rural areas of Gujarat, India. We believe in Slow Process and closing the loop to support Zero Waste in our manufacturing units.
Antarang, the brainchild of Bhagyashree Mehta, envisions a revitalized rural India where traditional crafts and skills flourish, providing sustainable livelihoods and preserving cultural heritage. In an era where machine and mass production dominate, Antarang stands as a testament to the irreplaceable value of human craftsmanship.
Our mission is twofold: to breathe new life into dying craft techniques by adapting them to modern needs and to empower women and differently-abled individuals in rural communities by offering them the skills and opportunities to achieve financial independence. By tapping into the rich reservoir of hand skills unique to India, Antarang nurtures and elevates these talents, fostering a community that thrives on creativity and tradition.
Antarang believes in hands-on experience and skill development for both rural and urban populations. In a future where AI and machines simplify our lives, hand skills will play a crucial role for recreation, livelihood, and as a foundation for innovation.
At Antarang, we are deeply committed to sustainability. Our practices focus on upcycling, recycling, zero waste, and slow production processes, ensuring that our impact on the environment is as gentle as the hands that craft our products. We believe in mindful manufacturing, where each product is a piece of art that tells a story of resilience, heritage, and hope.
By providing employment in traditional crafts, we aim to prevent the migration of rural populations to urban areas, thereby preserving the socio-cultural fabric of these communities. Antarang is dedicated to uplifting artisans through employability and economic development, bridging the gap between traditional art forms and contemporary requirements.
Our vision extends beyond our products; it is about creating a ripple effect that touches lives, fosters independence, and respects our planet. At Antarang, we are not just colouring lives with crafts; we are weaving a tapestry of sustainable futures, one handmade piece at a time.
Bhagyashree Mehta
Founder of Antarang - Coloring Lives with Crafts!After completing her design education at Pearl Academy of Fashion, Jaipur, in 2012, Bhagyashree Mehta gained invaluable experience working with various craft-based organizations. These roles deepened her understanding of the social responsibilities of a designer, especially in the context of rural India and its rich craft traditions. Her work on interior projects in Kutch was particularly eye-opening, inspiring her to launch her own startup in 2014.
Her startup, Antarang, Coloring Lives with Crafts, now provides employment to 35 rural and differently-abled (divyang) women in need of financial support. This initiative not only empowers these women economically but also helps preserve traditional art forms, aligning with sustainable development goals for societal betterment. By bridging contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship, Bhagyashree significantly impacts the lives of rural artisans and the preservation of cultural heritage. Her venture ensures that these art forms continue to thrive in modern times, fostering both economic empowerment and cultural preservation.
Dipali Rathod
Production HeadDipali joined Antarang after completing her Diploma at ITI Bhavnagar. Starting with basic skills in embroidery, stitching, and painting, she has since grown remarkably. Today, she flawlessly manages various tasks, including coordinating with team members, overseeing production line setups, conducting workshops, and supporting our work-from-home artisans. She plays a pivotal role in connecting Antarang with our artisans, bringing their emotions to life through her work. This impressive progression is a testament to the trust and responsibility bestowed upon her by the Antarang team. We recognize that such responsibilities foster personal growth unlike any other form of training.
Kajal Makwana
Master ArtisanKajal, who joined Antarang in 2015, is born deaf and mute. When she started, she had no prior knowledge or experience in any work. However, with the dedicated training and support from the Antarang team, Kajal has become an invaluable asset to our team. She now manages most of our tasks flawlessly. She became our master artisans as our every product sample passes through her hand before going to production, oversees our store at exhibitions, and even mentors new interns. Kajal's courage and determination are truly inspiring; she has proven that being differently-abled does not limit her ability to excel and manage exhibitions independently. Her journey from knowing nothing to mastering so many skills is truly remarkable.
Heena Telang
People and Culture manager (HR)Heena ben, a married woman with a background in painting and pottery, joined Antarag and quickly became an integral part of the team. Fondly referred to as “Aunty” by other team members, Heena aunty is more than a senior member, her ability to navigate emotions and understand the psychology of younger team members make her an indispensable pillar of our organization. Now at 60 years old, Heena aunty actively contributes to our painting and art projects, proving that passion knows no age limits. Recognizing her exceptional interpersonal skills and untapped potential, she has also taken the role of HR manager, where she continues to make a significant impact on our team and organization.
Rutvi Mistry
Marketing HeadRutvi joined Antarang after completing her Bachelor's in Commerce, where she discovered her passion for design. Armed with knowledge in design software, she embarked on her journey with Antarang. Despite being new to the field, she adeptly oversees our online portal under the guidance of the Antarang team. Her design expertise extends to creating emotionally resonant product catalogs that connect with our customers. Additionally, Rutvi introduces a fresh perspective to Antarang's SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), contributing innovative approaches to enhance operational efficiency. During her internship, Rutvi honed valuable time management skills.