The “Nakshi Kantha Project,” implemented by Efforts for Rural Advancement (ERA), is a community-based initiative aimed at preserving the traditional art of Nakshi Kantha embroidery while empowering rural women economically. Nakshi Kantha, a centuries-old Bengali craft, involves intricate hand-stitched patterns on layered old fabrics, reflecting the artisans’ personal stories, cultural heritage, and daily life experiences.
This project focuses on training women in the Jamalpur district, enhancing their skills in Nakshi Kantha embroidery to produce high-quality, marketable products. By providing access to resources, design development, and market linkages, the initiative enables these women to generate sustainable incomes, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment in the region.
Moreover, the project plays a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing the Nakshi Kantha tradition, ensuring that this unique form of cultural expression continues to thrive amidst modern challenges. Through the “Nakshi Kantha Project,” ERA not only supports economic development but also fosters cultural preservation and social cohesion within rural communities.