Tata Steel Foundation puts up exhibition-cum-sale of handicraft products in Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur, Aug 11: A captivating exhibition-cum-sale of handicraft products is officially inaugurated today at the Sonari Community Centre by the Tata Steel Foundation. This three-day event, starting from August 11th and continuing until August 13th, offers a unique display of the women artisans’ handmade products.

The event began with an inauguration ceremony, featuring stalls adorned with an array of handicraft products such as Terracotta, Dokra art, handmade baskets, bags, fabrics, culinary delights, home decor pieces, and various creative art products. A total of 22 stalls have been set up, each offering a glimpse into the remarkable creativity and skill of these artisans.

Distinguished guests at the inauguration included Jaya Singh Panda, Chief Learning and Development and Diversity Officer at Tata Steel, Manju Mishra, Senior Manager of Urban Services at Tata Steel Foundation, Keshav Kumar Ranjan, Senior Manager, and other team members of Tata Steel Foundation.

The exhibition initiated by Tata Steel Foundation in 2014, aimed at empowering and providing a platform for the visibility of women artisans. Over the years, the program has successfully connected more than 150 female artisans, helping them showcase their creative talent and skill. The annual profit generated from these stalls has consistently risen to approximately 3 lakh rupees.

Jaya Singh Panda, Chief Learning and Development and Diversity Officer at Tata Steel, during the event, emphasized the significance of such exhibitions in promoting women artisans and offering them a vital physical platform for recognition. She highlighted that these artisans not only secure sustainable livelihoods but also use digital platforms to amplify their financial independence. Tata Steel and Tata Steel Foundation have enabled a platform to display their artistic creations and will continue to do so.

“These women artisans exhibit remarkable resilience and determination, showcasing their artistry from local homes to the global market,” remarked Jaya Singh in her address. “Women entrepreneurs are celebrated across the nation, and we aim to further nurture their growth. The exhibition promises to be a celebration of skill, creativity, and determination, & the incredible journey of these talented women artisans. Our commitment is to empower communities and promote the art,” she stated in her speech.

In her statement, Manju Mishra, Senior Manager of Urban Services at TSF, highlighted, “Right from the outset, it was a considerable challenge to encourage women artisans to collaboratively establish stalls. We established a WhatsApp group which they joined, enabling our network to gradually expand. Currently, 150 women artisans have joined our network. We provided a platform where they could confidently showcase their unique creative talents. We guided them about market trends and conducted comprehensive training programs, consistently monitoring their progress and market adaptability. We actively promote their products and Tata Steel Foundation continues to provide this platform, contributing to enhanced livelihood opportunities within the community over the years.”

Jhuma Das, a 42-year-old artisan, expressed, “I am truly delighted to participate in such a well-organized exhibition. It’s heartening to witness visitors appreciating and exploring our handcrafted offerings. This exhibition not only provides us a platform to showcase our creativity but also facilitates meaningful social interactions with fellow women artisans.

66 years old, Preetpal Kaur Sidhu, a professional fashion designer, emphasized the significant impact of this exhibition, stating that it not only raises awareness about her boutique but also continues to drive customers to her store even after the event concludes. “The exhibition, organized by Tata Steel Foundation, has provided me with a vital platform to showcase my fabric creations. My stall offers a range of prices, starting from 70 rupees and going up to a maximum of 500 rupees.”

Ritu Todi, a 47-year-old entrepreneur, shared her experience, stating, “Many beauty products on the market contain harsh chemicals. So, I took the initiative to craft handmade beauty products using only natural organic ingredients to ensure their safety. Under the brand name ‘Canyhcares,’ I’ve established a small beauty brand. This exhibition has given me a platform in spreading awareness about my brand and its products among the public.”

Tata Steel Foundation’s commitment to the empowerment of women artisans remains unwavering as they continue to provide a platform. The Foundation ensures that these women artisans are not just acknowledged but celebrated.