Project Saksham
Project Saksham
Project Saksham, an initiative of the Shreekara World Foundation, is dedicated to preserving the timeless essence of India’s traditional arts while creating sustainable livelihoods for artisans who carry forward this invaluable heritage. Rooted in the belief that culture and craftsmanship are the soul of a community, the project seeks to provide artisans not only with a platform to showcase their skills but also with the resources, recognition, and opportunities they need to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. For generations, local artisans have preserved crafts such as weaving, pottery, woodwork, handloom, painting, metal art, and other indigenous forms, often relying solely on limited local markets for survival. Unfortunately, modern industrialization, machine-made products, and diminishing demand have left many of these crafts at risk of extinction, with artisans struggling to make ends meet. Project Saksham steps in as a bridge between tradition and modernity, ensuring that the richness of these age-old practices does not fade away but instead finds renewed relevance in contemporary society.
Through skill development programs, financial assistance, and marketing support, the project empowers artisans to improve their craft, adopt innovative designs, and connect with wider markets both in India and abroad. By organizing exhibitions, workshops, and cultural fairs, Project Saksham creates spaces where artisans can directly interact with consumers, thereby eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair wages. At the same time, the initiative focuses on training the younger generation of artisans, encouraging them to view their inherited skills not merely as a tradition but as a sustainable career path. In doing so, the project ensures continuity and nurtures pride in cultural identity.
Beyond economic upliftment, Project Saksham also emphasizes the cultural and emotional value of these art forms. Every handcrafted piece tells a story—of communities, rituals, and histories that form the fabric of India’s diverse heritage. By safeguarding these traditions, the project contributes to cultural preservation while promoting conscious consumerism in an age dominated by mass production. The Shreekara World Foundation envisions Project Saksham as a movement where artisans are celebrated as custodians of heritage rather than marginalized workers, restoring dignity to their craft and lives. Ultimately, the project serves as a reminder that true progress is not just about embracing the new but also about honoring and sustaining the wisdom and artistry of the past for future generations.