Helping Artisans bloom

Social entrepreneur and designer, Subrata Pandey has a vision to create a better life for marginalized communities by guiding them to use their creative skills

What led to your passion for Indian tribal culture and crafts?

SP: I grew up in Rourkela, a small city in the western belt of Odisha, an area that was predominantly tribal but lacked traditional craft practices other than bamboo and pottery. My dad is a state government doctor and I often spent time with his tribal patients. I was drawn to the local farmers’ markets. In time, I began watching cultural shows on television such as the popular Surbhi, which played a vital role in shaping my interest in Indian craft. I was lucky to have complete freedom as a child to do whatever I wanted in my personal space of madness but I was equally drawn to learning and had a thirst for knowledge. I believe my own quest, my environment, and great parenting fuelled my passion for art and craft.

After completing my graduation in crafts design from Indian Institute of Crafts and Design (IICD), Jaipur, I went on pursue post graduation in liberal arts from Ashoka University in Sonepat. I believe when you embark on a journey of self-learning, no readymade knowledge will help you. It is through your own discovery and failures that great learnings will come to you. My recent experience at the Harvard Business Executive Leadership program for managing non-profits has been the most rewarding experience of my life.

What is the story behind Punarnawa Crafts?