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Ramya

"Hi friends, I am Ramya and I was born in the amazing city of Vrindaban in Mathura. Mathura is a holy place, the birthplace of benevolent lord Krishna. Hence, there are lots of temples in our town. In fact, our family attends a 200-year-old temple in Vrindaban, one of the biggest temples in northern India.

"I grew up in an extended family and it was great fun. I also got the opportunity to meet others like my neighbors, who were greatly influential in what I am doing now. After graduating with a degree in life science, I taught for a short time, then moved to another town where I worked in the Indian Air Force (IAF) as an air traffic controller for almost five years.

"In Vrindaban, I had always been fascinated by our neighbor ladies' wonderful handicrafts. Although I took no technical courses, I learned a bit of craft work whenever I came home on vacation. Later I was fortunate to get posted to remote area in India for my job as an IAF officer. I was amazed at the variety of things that artisans from different parts of my country could create. I was also surprised at the knowledge they had and the sheer quality of the designs they produced. For five years, I had items custom made before my eyes, and I interacted closely with the artisans. That's how, when I quit IAF, I decided to work with them and do something that I loved.

"In my frequent interaction with the artisans, I realized that they had little knowledge about the kind of pieces that sell well in the market and how people use them. I work closely with them and create contemporary and useful designs. I also study the traditional motifs and patterns they use in their work, and document them. I am currently trying to revive some extinct forms of embroidery. I work with the artisans in imparting them a sense of quality and timely delivery, and teach them the true value of their handicrafts.

"I spent three years in Gujarat and learned about its amazing crafts. During that time, I met many talented artisans and some of them now collaborate with me. Most of the artisans I have met are women who not only take care of the home and children but also create exquisite work during their free time. Despite life's difficulties, it always heartens me to see them get ahead. And when I am able to make a little bit of difference in their lives, it gives me a real sense of satisfaction."