Crafty Dreams

Its the dawn of a new year, a time to reflect on the past, dream of a better future and make resolutions to make dreams come true. The mood has infected me...I am dreaming big dreams for Indian Handicrafts...
                 May the craftsmen of India find an eternal source of inspiration in the bountiful Nature and their rich traditions. May these craftsmen get to learn about the world beyond their villages and about the people who use their artifacts. May this knowledge help them in blending tradition, beauty, utility and contemporary taste. Above all, may these millions find themselves with 'roti','kapda' and 'makan', so they can continue their craftwork and pass it on to the future generations.
                 May the tribe of social do-gooders increase. May they fight the battle for reviving Indian crafts with innovative ideas, eco-friendly solutions and sound projects rather than noisy seminars and meaningless meetings. May there be fresh designer minds who would educate and guide the craftsmen; handhold them to a brighter future, not crush them to mere labourer state.
                 May there be lesser middlemen. May there be social entrepreneurs to market the crafts, spread the culture and tradition, not merely sell products. May the artisans be able to showcase their crafts to a wider audience and proudly share the stories of their livelihood. And may the beauty of Indian crafts spread its fragrance far and wide, to the ends of the world...