Paramparik Karigar

Paramparik Karigar is a unique and deeply purposeful organisation based in Worli, Mumbai, established in 1996. It was formed with the aim of creating a platform by craftsmen, for craftsmen, inspired by the vision of the legendary Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay and led by Roshan Kalapesi. The organisation is a voluntary, non-profit collective representing over 90 craft units from 14 states across India, covering materials as diverse as clay, wood, metal, textile, and mixed media. The craftspeople associated with Paramparik Karigar are masters of their traditions, many of them recipients of national and prestigious craft awards including the Padma Shri. The organisation’s primary activity is organising exhibitions, seminars, and fairs, where craftsmen can directly engage with urban consumers and receive the full proceeds of their sales. These events are held at prominent venues in Mumbai, Kolkata, and other cities. Paramparik Karigar also conducts craft demonstration workshops in schools and cultural centres, helping educate younger generations about the complexity and beauty of Indian craft traditions. The organisation assists artisan families in sustaining their livelihoods by keeping traditional crafts commercially viable through design adaptation and market access, without compromising the authenticity of the craft. It remains one of India’s most respected artisan advocacy bodies.