Blog on Indian Crafts and Craftspeople - Metaphor Racha. – Page 3

Demystifying Khadi: Beyond the Fabric

In a recent survey on our social media, we asked a pertinent question: "Is there a lack of awareness about khadi amongst consumers?" The response was overwhelming, with 88% saying 'yes.' This has sparked a conversation on the responsibilities of creating awareness. Should the onus be on buyers asking more questions and seeking knowledge? Should it be the responsibility of the primary producers like Khadi sanghas, Bhandars, KVIC, or the MSME ministry? Or does the responsibility fall on brands like ours, often seen as middlemen?The truth is, almost everyone in...

Our Journey to Eco-Conscious Packaging

At Metaphor Racha, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We've diligently worked to minimize waste and plastic use for over seven years. From hand-block printed labels to e-generated bills, we strive to make eco-conscious choices. One of our biggest challenges has been finding the right packaging solution that aligns with our values and meets our diverse product needs.The Challenge of Traditional PackagingInitially, we used brown carton boxes, which seemed a sustainable choice. However, these boxes often required additional plastic coverings and sometimes didn't suit the variety of...

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift of many businesses online, a trend that has brought both opportunities and challenges. At Metaphor Racha, we've embraced e-commerce for the past seven years, witnessing firsthand its benefits and limitations. Here's why operating an online store makes practical sense and aligns with sustainable practices.1. Digital Visibility and Cost-EffectivenessIn a world where digital searches dominate, having a website ensures that our products are easily discoverable. Setting up and maintaining an online store costs significantly less than running a physical store. Plus, e-commerce allows us...

In today's world, the term "sustainability" is everywhere. From eco-friendly products to green initiatives, it often feels like a catch-all term that loses meaning with every mention. This phenomenon, known as "semantic satiation," can render words like "green" and "sustainable" as vague concepts rather than actionable goals. So, what does sustainability entail, especially in the craft industry?Is Selling Less Sustainable?The belief that selling less is inherently more sustainable oversimplifies the issue. Working with handloom, natural dyes, and organic cotton certainly contributes to environmental sustainability, but it is not the sole...

In a world dominated by large corporations and mass production, the term "small business" often gets overshadowed. Yet, small businesses are crucial to our economy and communities, especially in craft. While the definition of a small business can vary by region, it often involves a unique set of attitudes and values. Here's why supporting small businesses, particularly those in the craft sector, is essential and impactful. 1. Strengthening Local Economies Small social enterprises, especially those rooted in local craft, contribute significantly to the local economy. They bring people-centric growth...

In a world increasingly driven by mass production and convenience, the true value of handmade crafts often goes unnoticed. At Metaphor Racha, we believe in the profound impact of supporting traditional crafts on the artisans and you. Here’s how craft supports you in ways you might not have realized.1. Organic and Sustainable PracticesCotton grown organically, free from harsh chemicals and fertilizers, enhances soil fertility and reduces chemical production. This improves the health of producers and consumers and contributes to a more sustainable environment. Organic farming supports you by ensuring that...

At Metaphor Racha, every stitch and pattern tells a story of dedication and craftsmanship. My journey into fashion and pattern-making has been shaped not by formal training but by a blend of personal experiences, the wisdom of mentors, and a continuous learning process.One significant chapter in this journey involves Sanju, a tailor crucial in my early days of custom tailoring in Bengaluru. Although Sanju passed away 13 years ago, his influence on my craft remains profound. He began as a helper, but his keen understanding of form, shape, and proportion...

At Metaphor Racha, transparency is not just a buzzword, it's a guiding principle deeply embedded in our practices. We've always been open about our textile-making processes, printing and embroidery methods, the artisans behind our work, and the economics of our craft. Our blog is a living testament to this commitment, offering insights into every aspect of our production.Yet, the question arises: Is Metaphor Racha fully transparent? The answer is not a simple yes or no. While we strive for openness, we recognize that transparency in the craft sector is a...

At Metaphor Racha, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. For years, hand-block printing has been a cherished craft in our collection because of our exclusive wooden blocks and our dedication to preserving the legacy of the 'unknown block maker.' A unique aspect of our printing process involves using a thick cotton cloth, locally known as "Achada," laid on the table before printing. This protective layer absorbs excess colour, preventing it from seeping into the wooden table. Given the amount of work involved, this cloth is discarded...

A recent newspaper article revealed that handkerchiefs were the most searched product in January 2023. Many brands were highlighted, offering packs of three priced between ₹250 and ₹400. Yet, amid this list, Khadi handkerchiefs didn't cut it. While we're not allowed to use the trademarked term "Khadi," I feel compelled to discuss it. The Khadi Handkerchief Theory Let's explore a creative theory. Bengaluru has around 10 lakh software employees. If each purchased just four Khadi handkerchiefs annually, the total consumption would be 10 lakh meters of Khadi fabric yearly....

Craftrepreneurs: The Heart of Handmade

As craftrepreneurs, we don't just run businesses; we live and breathe our work, transforming challenges into opportunities with a wink and a smile. Our mission is to champion sustainability, foster authentic relationships, and create products that delight, all while embracing a casual yet passionate approach—often in our comfiest, well-worn pyjamas.The Art of Crafting TreasuresWe see ourselves as treasure hunters, venturing where assembly lines fear to tread. From handmade jewellery that outshines disco balls to artisanal soaps evoking vacation dreams and handcrafted clothing as unique as a child's imagination, we prioritize...

India's handloom industry, a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage, has faced numerous challenges and transformations over the decades. From the reservation of specific articles for handloom production to the rise of power looms, this sector's journey is a complex tapestry of regulations, market dynamics, and artisans' resilience. Here's a deep dive into the evolution of the handloom industry and the challenges it faces today.Historical Context: A Sector in Flux1928: The handloom sector experienced widespread unemployment, signalling the beginning of its turbulent journey.1932: The Tariff Board, led by Dr....

Block Printed Khadi Dupatta - Kuh

Block Printed Khadi Dupatta - Pesce

Block Printed Table Placemats - Black and Rose

Block Printed Table Placemats - Fiji Blue