STITCHING THE FUTURE: HOW INDIAN WOMEN ARE WEAVING THEIR WAY INTO A TRADITIONALLY MALE-DOMINATED CRAFT

For centuries, the intricate art of embroidery and stitching in India has been a testament to the country's unparalleled craftsmanship.

- RIDHIMA BAHUGUNA

From the dazzling Zardozi of Lucknow to the exquisite Kantha of Bengal, these delicate stitches have told stories of culture, heritage, and artistry. However, while embroidery and tailoring are often perceived as domestic skills, professional stitching and embroidery—especially in luxury fashion, bespoke tailoring, and high-end textile craftsmanship—have traditionally been male-dominated industries.

When we started Project Unnati at Roots Foundation, we witnessed this reality firsthand. Women who had spent their lives stitching within the confines of their homes never saw themselves as skilled artisans. They didn't believe their craft could translate into financial independence. Trapped by both social and personal circumstances and self-doubt, they hesitated to see themselves as professionals. As our flagship skilling initiative, Project Unnati aims to change this age-old situation — we work towards enabling livelihood enhancement for women through industry-focused training and entrepreneurial support. By nurturing their skills and confidence, we are helping them realize that their hands, which once worked in silence, can now shape their own futures.

Ever since the inception of the initiative in 2017, we have skilled more than 5,000 women in sewing, pattern making, and hand embroidery. Over 4,500 Sewing Machine Operators (SMOs) have been placed in garment factories, while 500+ women have been trained in embroidery and placed under luxury designers. Through our efforts, we have positively impacted more than 15,000 lives.