My Field Visit to West Bengal’s Women Artisans

Walking through the villages of Birbhum, Bankura, and Burdwan districts of West Bengal, I witnessed first-hand how tradition and technology are coming together to reshape the lives of women artisans. Through our Digital Upskilling Program, we are connecting with 800 women who specialize in crafts like Kantha stitch, Dokra metalwork, Batik art, pottery & terracotta, Bel mala, bamboo weaving, and Matir Putul (clay toys) But beyond their craft, what stood out was their determination to step into entrepreneurship with a strong desire to mainstream their business with the help of technology.

Each district has its own charm. Birbhum, with its cultural roots and Shantiniketan, feels like an artist’s haven. Sonajhuri Haat, set in the Khoai forest near the Mayurakshi River, is a vibrant open-air market where artisans from nearby villages showcase their handmade crafts. The soulful tunes of Baul musicians add to its charm. For these artisans, the haat is more than just a marketplace—it’s a space where traditions live on, skills are shared, and creativity thrives.

Bridging the Digital Divide

Digital literacy was a new world for these women. Using a smartphone for business, handling online transactions, or understanding UPI payments was a major challenge. There was a deep-rooted fear of making mistakes, losing money, or simply being scammed, But the shift was evident. Through training, they started exploring financial management apps, learning how do basic calculations, creating their own gmail accounts, and even using Google Maps to navigate to find shortest way to nearby market. One moment that truly struck me was when I asked a group of artisans at Khiruli village, Birbhum- how they felt about the training. One woman, holding a piece of fabric frame with Kantha embroidery, said:

"I never thought my phone could be anything more than a device for calls. Now, I use it to take orders, check prices, and even plan my expenses. It feels like I’ve taken control of something I never knew existed."

Pinterest became an unexpected favorite—a digital inspiration application where artisans started exploring new patterns for Kantha designs, color combinations for Batik, and innovative ideas for pottery. What started as a training on basic digital skills had opened up a world of creative possibilities.

Beyond Business: A Community of Support

One of the most beautiful aspects of this journey was seeing how the women supported each other.

For many, stepping out of their homes to attend training was a challenge in itself but as they sat together, learning, discussing, and even laughing at their first digital errors, they built a sense of sisterhood.

As they learned to navigate their phones, they weren’t just embracing technology —they were reclaiming their agency, building financial confidence, and taking their craft to a wider world.

In a world where digital access can redefine opportunities, these artisans are proving that technology is not just for the privileged—it is for anyone willing to learn, adapt, and dream.

And in the heart of West Bengal, that quiet revolution has already begun.