Our vision at the Kalhath Institute is to recognize, promote, and sustain craft excellence within the realm of Indian embroideries and related textile arts, by creating a sustainable ecosystem that celebrates and supports the continued excellence of Indian crafts, ensuring their preservation and future growth.
At the Kalhath Institute, Human-Centered Design guides all our activities, emphasizing empathy with artisans to understand their perspectives and challenges. This approach informs our efforts to support and empower them effectively. We value the diversity of vernacular design and techniques found in traditional crafts, actively collaborating with artisans to immerse ourselves in their cultural context. This hands-on approach enables us to preserve traditional techniques while adapting them to modern needs. Our commitment to artisans includes providing exposure to markets, educational opportunities, and innovative approaches. By working closely with artisans, we enhance their confidence and support their craft practice, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
The Kalhath Institute, established under the auspices of the Kalhath Foundation in 2016, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the age-old embroideries of India, particularly those originating from Uttar Pradesh. Through our work, we aim to capture the rich cultural essence embedded within these traditional embroideries, paying close attention to their material, technique, and design.
At the heart of our institute’s mission is a commitment to engaging with Indian embroiderers on both a skillful and emotional level. We recognize the immense talent and cultural heritage embodied by these artisans, and we strive to provide them with the support, resources, and recognition they deserve. By fostering a nurturing and collaborative environment, we seek to not only enhance their craftsmanship but also empower them to preserve and pass on their invaluable knowledge to future generations.
Through various initiatives, including training programs, workshops, exhibitions, and collaborative projects, the Kalhath Institute endeavors to celebrate and showcase the beauty and intricacy of Indian embroideries. By celebrating the rich tapestry of India’s textile traditions, we hope to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage while also fostering sustainable livelihoods for the skilled artisans who keep these traditions alive.