In today’s world of home décor, the story behind each piece is as important as its beauty. Founded in 2022 by Simran Kedia and co-founder Shubham Kedia, Alokya is on a mission that extends beyond aesthetics. The brand is dedicated to preserving India’s rich cultural heritage by reviving ancient folk art traditions, celebrating the artisans who sustain these traditions, and providing them with sustainable livelihoods. Alokya is more than just a brand; it is a movement aimed at ensuring the craftsmanship of rural artisans thrives in the modern era.
The Vision Behind Alokya
Simran’s journey to create Alokya began when she visited a handicraft fair with her mother and witnessed the intricate artistry of rural artisans. While admiring their work, she discovered a painful truth: the very artisans she revered struggled to make a living. Their skill and craftsmanship went unnoticed, their stories unheard, and their potential unfulfilled. This stark reality ignited Simran’s deep desire to create a platform that would not only preserve India’s folk art traditions but also uplift the artisans who bring them to life.
Growing up in West Bengal, a region rich in cultural history, Simran always admired and appreciated art and culture. Ironically, she was unaware of traditional art forms like Patachitra—an art unique to her own state that wasn’t receiving the recognition it deserved. This personal journey of discovering and appreciating India’s heritage laid the foundation for Alokya, a brand aimed at showcasing such art forms in the modern limelight.
What began with scented candles in terracotta jars, hand-painted with intricate Patachitra designs, soon evolved into a diverse range of home décor products. Each item—whether a candle, wooden sculpture, or bamboo-woven piece—serves as a tribute to the skill and artistry of India’s rural artisans. These products are more than mere decorative objects; they embody the voices and stories of generations of craftspeople whose skills have been passed down through ages.
A Commitment to Craftsmanship and Cultural Preservation
At Alokya, every product is a testament to the heritage it represents. The brand works exclusively with generational artisans, many of whom have honed their crafts over decades. These artisans are the custodians of traditions such as bamboo weaving, terracotta sculpting, woodworking, and more.
Some artisans, like the Patachitra craftspeople, come from families with eight generations of expertise, infusing their creations with both history and artistry.
Alokya focuses on preserving these traditions by ensuring that artisans’ skills are celebrated and passed down to future generations. By providing fair wages, steady work, and a platform for their craft, Alokya helps sustain rural communities and promotes their cultural heritage on a global stage.
Empowering Artisans and Uplifting Communities
Alokya’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that artisans are the heart of the brand. The company not only provides a market for their work but also actively supports their well-being by ensuring fair wages and securing meaningful orders. These efforts have been especially impactful post-pandemic, helping artisan families regain financial stability and continue their crafts. The brand’s products, including terracotta, bamboo, and reclaimed wood pieces, are crafted with a balance of tradition and functionality.
Alokya’s packaging is thoughtfully created using biodegradable materials like jute bags and paper wraps, reflecting the brand’s commitment to environmental care. While preserving cultural heritage and supporting artisans remains central to Alokya’s mission, sustainability seamlessly aligns with these values, reinforcing their dedication to a responsible future.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Impact
What started as a simple line of candles has blossomed into an international venture. Alokya’s products have reached markets such as the U.S., where they are recognized not only for their beauty but also for their cultural significance. This success marks a milestone in Alokya’s mission to raise awareness about the value of traditional craftsmanship while ensuring its continued growth.
Looking ahead, Alokya is expanding into new markets, including office décor and corporate gifting. New product lines like bamboo pen stands and eco-friendly notebooks aim to connect younger generations with India’s rich artistic traditions while offering functional, everyday items.
Additionally, the brand plans to incorporate more traditional art forms, such as Madhubani and Warli, into its products. By diversifying its collection, Alokya aims to showcase India’s diverse folk arts and contribute to the preservation of over 2,000 traditional art forms across the country.
A Legacy of Culture and Community
Alokya’s journey goes beyond being just a business; it is a narrative centered on cultural preservation, artisan support, and community upliftment. By showcasing India’s folk arts on a global platform, Alokya is helping to ensure that these ancient traditions endure for generations to come.
Through this work, the brand successfully combines the beauty of India’s heritage with the demands of the modern world, creating a legacy that not only celebrates craftsmanship but also uplifts communities.
To know more visit- https://alokya.com
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