IIT Kanpur Launches KALA GRAM to Innovate and Preserve Traditional Crafts

IIT Kanpur has launched the KALA GRAM Design Development Centre to revitalize traditional crafts by fostering innovation and supporting artisans.

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has launched KALA GRAM, a Design Development Centre at the Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra (RSK), dedicated to preserving and revitalizing traditional crafts through innovation. Serving as a hub for artisans, the Centre will facilitate the exploration of new materials, techniques, and market trends while fostering collaboration with young designers from leading institutions to co-create contemporary products.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Centre, Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, said, "The launch of KALA GRAM at Ranjit Singh Rozi Shiksha Kendra marks a significant step in empowering traditional artisans. By bringing together IIT Kanpur’s faculty and external experts, we aim to elevate the craftsmanship of rural artisans and create a lasting impact on the value of their products."

The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Prof. Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni; Prof. Satyaki Roy, Head of the Department of Design; Prof. Sudhanshu S. Singh, Co-PI of the Design Project; Prof. Amarendra K. Singh, PIC Technopark@IITK; and Prof. Kallol Mandal from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, among others.

Prof. Sandeep Sangal, Principal Investigator of the RSK project, highlighted the dual objectives of RSK: providing free, high-quality education to children and offering employable skills to rural youth. "In the last three years, we have trained over 1,000 rural youth, and we aim to empower them to set up their own production units and becoming job creators," he said.

The Centre will initially spotlight Bithoor's pottery, Kalpi's handmade paper, and Kanpur's home furnishings. Rita Singh, Project Executive Officer of RSK, stated, "Our goal is to rejuvenate these crafts by introducing new design developments, addressing the challenges that artisans face, and bringing fresh appeal to their products."

Dr. Monika Thakur, coordinator of KALA GRAM, mentioned that the Centre would provide a space for artisans to experiment with new tools and techniques, discover market trends, and learn packaging strategies. She added that collaborations with design institutions and studios will facilitate these exchanges.

Supported by CSR funds from Philip Morris International Inc.’s India affiliate, IPM India Wholesale Trading Private Limited (IPM India), this initiative has made a meaningful impact on women’s empowerment. Anushree Lakshminarayanan, Director of External Affairs at IPM India, praised the project for its role in uplifting local artisans.

With initiatives like KALA GRAM, IIT Kanpur is fostering rural artisans' livelihoods while seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. This project embodies the institute’s commitment to sustainable development and empowerment through education and skill-building.

Read More

• IIT Kanpur's NICEE Hosts 16th Annual Earthquake Safety Quiz for Schools
• Techkriti 2025: IIT Kanpur's Technical and Entrepreneurial Fest Returns from March 27 to 30