who we are
OUR ETHOS
Indian arts and crafts are steeped in the rich cultural heritage of our people, dating back over 5000 years. Much of this artistic knowledge is passed down through generations—taught by hand, by heart and by tradition. From father to son, mother to daughter, these crafts carry stories, laughter, tears and a spirit that keeps India’s cultural soul alive in every weave, carving and brushstroke.
We at Paramparik Karigar identify and nurture traditional artforms and the skilled hands behind them,
empowering artisans to become self-sustainable, preserving traditions across generations, and creating public awareness of their cultural value.
OUR ROOTS
By the 1980’s, many of India’s traditional arts and crafts were quietly fading. Public awareness was dismal, middlemen exploited artisans, and younger generations were leaving their ancestral crafts for more sustainable livelihoods. Centuries of skill and cultural legacy were at the risk of being lost.
In the face of this crisis, a group of concerned craftsmen came together with a plea for change. They reached out to Roshan Kalapesi, a passionate patron of the arts, with a vision to protect and revive India’s handmade heritage.
In 1996, Paramparik Karigar was born
Founded with a mission to rejuvenate and celebrate India’s rich artisanal traditions,
Paramparik Karigar stands as a one of a kind artistic collective.
THE CHANGE WE SEEK
We aim
to safeguard and promote India’s traditional arts and crafts.
We create
public awareness of traditional artforms and their artisans to ensure they are recognized, appreciated, and understood.
We assist
craftsmen in enhancing their skills through technical, design and marketing workshops, empowering them to grow creatively and professionally.
We ensure
that skills are passed down through generations by conducting workshops for children of craftsmen and others in the community.
We conduct
exhibitions, workshops, lectures and seminars to spread public awareness and educate those interested in these arts and crafts.
We monitor & maintain
quality standards of the crafts produced by our member artisans.
CRAFT IN ACTION
At Paramparik Karigar, we create platforms for meaningful connection between artisans and lovers of traditional arts and crafts. Through curated exhibitions across India, in cities such as Bangalore and Chennai, our member artisans showcase their work, engage directly with audiences and share the stories behind their craft.
Beyond exhibitions, we are deeply committed to the growth and sustainability of our artisan community.
Our Karigars have participated in workshops at the National Institute of Design and other notable institutions in India and across the globe.
To further encourage creativity and collaboration, we periodically host craft residencies — spaces where our artisans can exchange knowledge, explore new techniques, and co-create new, innovative designs rooted in tradition.