Prachin Art And Crafts In India, art and craft are not merely decorative. They are conceived from the creative vision of common people; inspired by their deep devotion to god, their spiritual communion with nature and the wisdom of their traditions. Art is therefore, a reflection of the self and community, a socially unifying force, a “sacred expression” of people intrinsically linked with culture. Therefore "Prachin" is about PEOPLE, ARTS and CULTURE – blending to form a cohesive whole. MISSION Prachin Arts & Craft is dedicated to supporting and empowering traditional (folk and tribal) Indian artists and artisans through systematic and sustained development efforts. We seek to ensure their social and economic well-being, nurture creative community enterprises, foster global recognition and collaboration for indigenous arts, and promote, protect and preserve the integrity and diversity of Indian art, craft and culture. VALUES Honesty and integrity Attention to product quality and service Consistent sales opportunities for artists and crafts persons, prompt final payments Be an active force for traditional (folk and tribal) art in society BACKGROUND TO PRACHIN ART'S & CRAFTS Prachin Art's & Craft grew from Anjana (a Kitchen Store Started in 1992) Prachin Is initiative to stimulate development from within culture. It explored ways in which culture can provide a means of sustenance, as well as serve as a medium of social empowerment. Prachin Arts & Craft is founded on the strong belief that “Cultural Action is Social Action”. The Prachin Arts & Craft Was Started On the year 2011, Through our endeavors, we strive to offer equal opportunity and a better quality of living for artists and crafts people. We are driven by our belief in the right to food for all peoples, education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities and information on an equitable basis. Our work is at the intersection of conservation, education, enterprise and empowerment. WHY WE DO, WHAT WE DO After agriculture, craft is the second largest occupational sector in India with approx 20 – 30 million people Colonial monopoly of Indian craft and later the industrial revolution saw the extreme marginalisation of artisans While craft helps supplement inadequate income from agriculture, for many, it is their only means to subsist Every 10 years, 10% give up their skill because they are unable to sustain livelihoods Tribal communities in particular suffer considerable exploitation and discrimination. They have shouldered a disproportionate share of the burden of development, accounting for half of those displaced from their traditional homes since India's independence. According to government estimates, on almost every indicator of well-being India’s tribal communities fall below the national average. Poverty and low levels of literacy, further reduce economic opportunity Caught in the web of commercialisation, the “essential virtues” of traditional arts are gradually fading out and little is being done to protect their authenticity.