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In a tribute to India's vibrant cultural tapestry, Hamari Virasat (Our Heritage), an initiative by the Hand For Handmade Foundation, is poised to unveil an extraordinary mural featuring 75 distinctive handmade textile artworks.
Crafted by artisan groups from various corners of the country, each 1mx1m masterpiece pays homage to the 75th year of the Indian Constitution, drawing inspiration from the symbols depicted in its preamble. This visual masterpiece is a powerful testament to the profound connection between constitutional values and the artisanal sector's pivotal role in nation-building.
This mural was inaugurated on January 12, 2024, at the CSMVS (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya) museum in Mumbai. Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation and a patron of the arts for over three decades, graced the occasion.
Hamari Virasat, conceived as a celebration of the 75th year of the Constitution, serves as a bridge between people and artisans. The artworks, contributed pro-bono by Hand for Handmade members, symbolise a heartfelt endeavour to channel creativity and artistry toward the shared goal of nation-building.
"Art influenced by tradition found its place in the preamble. As we celebrate the 75th year of the constitution, we emphasise the significance of traditional textiles and crafts. It's time to spotlight tradition and its associated values, with Hamari Virasat as a beautiful example," said Aradhana Nagpal, the curator of Hamari Virasat. "A visual delight created by and for the people, it represents a design-forward approach to bringing together artisans, designers, and organisations—all collaborating towards preserving our heritage," she added.
This travelling exhibition will be on display in key cities across the country, starting with its launch at Mumbai's CSMVS museum from January 12 to 14. The mural will then grace Cross Maidan during the Kala Ghoda festival from January 20 to 28 before embarking on a journey to other parts of the country.
"Hamari Virasat was conceptualised to spotlight India's artisan sector and its role in nation-building. Acknowledging this sector's contribution to millions of livelihoods and women's empowerment is important. We hope that Hamari Virasat will drive conversations around the art and craft sector and help us reimagine the industry to create greater impact in the times to come," said Shibani Dasgupta Jain, the Founder of Hand for Handmade Foundation.
Hamari Virasat, in addition to being a static display, also includes workshops. These workshops will delve into the stories of artists who contributed to the making of the Constitution, exploring how constitutional values have translated into rights and welfare for all citizens, with a particular focus on artisans.
"We, the People Abhiyan," the knowledge partner for these workshops, will play a crucial role in connecting the artisanal sector with the Constitution's ideals.
"The diversity and craftsmanship in the Indian artisan sector mirrors the Constitution's ideals of liberty, fraternity, justice, and equality. With its myriad forms and practices, this sector represents a microcosm of Indian society, embodying the constitutional vision of a diverse yet unified nation," Vinita Gursahani Singh, Founder of "We, the People Abhiyan," said while highlighting the connection between the artisanal sector and the Constitution.
Hand For Handmade Foundation, established during the Covid-19 pandemic, is an NGO supporting artisans. With over 500 members, including artisans, designers, entrepreneurs, academicians, and NGOs, the foundation aims to empower and support the growth of the handmade industry through knowledge sharing, design innovation, and building effective linkages in the ecosystem.
"We, The People Abhiyan," is a non-profit organisation that empowers citizens to actively create an equal, free, just, and dignified society. The organisation strives to enable individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities through training and capacity-building initiatives.
The JSW Group is a business house in India. With a workforce spread across India, the USA, Europe, and Africa, it is known for its focus on sustainable growth and social development, aiming to create value for all stakeholders.
