We have just arrived in Jaipur after our 10 day visit to Kala Raksha — an organization dedicated to the preservation of traditional, hand embroidery work in the desert region of Kutch. We spent most of our time at the main location in the village of Sumrasar, 25 km north of the main city of Bhuj. The grounds at Sumrasar are comprised of small buildings, three of which are based on traditional bhungas: circular single-storey structures made with thick mud walls, decorated with mirrors and mud relief work.
Upon our arrival at Kala Raksha we were warmly greeted by the marketing director, Nileshbhai, who showed us through their exhibition room and museum, both of which house beautifully embroidered pieces reflecting the seven styles from the region: Suf, Khaarek, Paako, Rabari, Jat, Mutava, and Patchwork. The museum is a collection of heirloom textiles assembled with the intention of providing the artisans with a tangible connection to their heritage. Even though we had the privilege of experiencing the pieces closely and intimately, we highly recommend viewing their collection which can now be found online: http://www.kala-raksha-museum.org/
Nileshbhai also took us through the production areas where the pattern making and sewing for the Kala Raksha products take place. We also poked our heads into their storage room which is piled high with beautiful quilts, saris, wall hangings, bags, etc. Let’s just say it’s absolutely magical! After the comprehensive tour, we sat down and made a loose schedule for our stay. We planned a number of video interviews with artisans of various embroidery communities, as well as one with Judy Frater, the founder of Kala Raksha. We also decided we would visit the Kala Raksha Vidhyalaya (Artisan Design School), and that we would help out with the marketing campaign for their upcoming fashion show. With a better understanding of the history and structure of the organization, we all have a satisfied and comforting feeling that going to Kala Raksha was a great decision and provided a valuable outcome. Now, we miss every aspect of our experience there and are already dreaming up plans to return in the future.
Check out their website and get an idea for yourselves, enjoy! :http://www.kala-raksha.org
More details about our experience at Kala Raksha to come,
Seeds and Threads 
