Background

India is a country known for its vast expanse and diverse population. It is no secret that the nation is also home to many indigenous communities, each of which is characterized by its unique set of traditions and cultural and artistic expressions. However, in the aftermath of the place-eroding and culture-erasing forces of colonization, many of these groups began to lose their cultural practices, further exacerbated by mindless development that came as part of post-colonial nation-building. 

A significant amount of traditional arts and crafts, for instance, jewellery, textiles, and even pottery that support the livelihood of the communities they’ve originated from stand at risk of complete disappearance today. As per UNESCO, close to five tribal languages in India are on the verge of extinction while specific art forms like folk paintings, puppetry, handicrafts, and different types of embroidery continue to die down in their appreciation and relevance amongst younger generations. This loss is not only one that harms India’s cultural heritage but also leaves tribal artisans without a sustainable means of income – an issue that is made worse by intermediaries that cause the voices of marginalized artisans to remain unheard and their works undervalued. 

Jewels of India was born out of a passionate desire to uplift the communities whose histories and works have been constantly pushed into the silent corners of public memory. By directing its efforts towards preserving and promoting tribal art, the project hopes to provide individuals with a safe platform – one that ensures their traditions are celebrated and simultaneously integrated into contemporary markets, thereby ensuring their economic prosperity.