The demand for Munj jewellery in Prayagraj is on the rise, as local women’s self-help groups are receiving increasing orders both online and offline. This surge in interest comes after Munj products were selected as the “One District, One Product” of Prayagraj, prompting local women to expand their product offerings.
Traditionally, women in self-help groups produced items such as puja baskets, Ganga Jal bags, flower pots, and puja aasans. However, with the growing popularity of Munj products, they have now begun designing and crafting Munj jewellery. This shift has not only boosted the local economy but has also empowered women, making them more self-reliant.
Tanya Banerjee, Assistant Director (Handicraft), explained, “Women making Munj products at the Tourist Craft Village in Maheva are receiving training from designers at the National Institute of Fashion Design. As a result, they have transitioned from creating traditional items to producing Munj jewellery, which is gaining significant demand both online and offline across the country.”
The newly trained women have found success by focusing on jewellery for the Haldi ceremony, a popular tradition in Hindu weddings. The demand for these pieces, which are eco-friendly and sustainable, has risen as the Haldi ritual becomes increasingly trendy. The Munj bindis, used during the ceremony, are especially popular as they take less time and require fewer resources to create.
Each group of women works in teams of 20, collaborating to meet the rising demand. Handicraft artist Saumya added, “Because Munj jewellery is eco-friendly and sustainable, it is in high demand both online and offline.”
The growth in Munj jewellery production is not only transforming the lives of local women but also contributing to the larger movement of sustainable and locally sourced products.
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