About Hand for Handmade
Hand for Handmade is a unique initiative born during the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. What started as an informal digital network in 2020, quickly evolved into a structured non-profit organization, registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013. HFH represents a powerful collective of artisans, designers, NGOs, and craft enthusiasts united by a shared goal: to support and rejuvenate India’s craft and handmade sector.
At the heart of HFH lies the mission to empower artisans by bridging the gap between traditional skills and contemporary opportunities. We work to nurture innovation, foster collaboration, and create sustainable linkages that bring the magic of handmade crafts to a wider audience. Every initiative is guided by the belief that the craftspeople are the custodians of India’s cultural heritage and must be at the forefront of this ecosystem’s growth.
Our Vision & Mission
Our vision is to reimagine the Indian handmade industry as a dynamic, contemporary ecosystem that carries deep meaning and relevance for today’s world while preserving the essence of its timeless traditions. We envision a future where handmade crafts are valued not just as products but as stories of heritage, artistry, and human connection.
Our mission is rooted in the belief that the handmade industry is an essential bridge between culture and commerce. We are committed to energizing this sector through transformative initiatives that emphasize knowledge-sharing, inspire innovation, and build strong, ethical linkages across the ecosystem.
Our Story
Hand for Handmade emerged during one of the most turbulent times in modern history. The pandemic disrupted the very foundations of the craft industry, leaving artisans grappling with a loss of income, logistical breakdowns, and stagnant inventory. In response to these challenges, HFH began as a digital platform, connecting artisans, craft patrons, and designers in a shared effort to rebuild and reimagine the craft ecosystem.
What started as a simple WhatsApp group in April 2020 soon transformed into a national movement, driven by a vision to protect and promote the handmade industry. Since then, HFH has pioneered initiatives such as Master Classes on contemporary craft practices, digital design interventions through “Design Pe Charcha,” and the creation of “HandmadeKatha,” a curated marketplace that connects artisans directly with buyers.
Through each of these efforts, HFH has become a symbol of resilience and innovation, proving that the handmade industry has the potential to adapt, evolve, and flourish in an ever-changing world.
Our Team
Meet the passionate individuals driving HFH’s mission forward.
Shibani Jain
Founder & Director
Shibani is the driving force behind Baaya, a boutique atelier dedicated to rejuvenating Indian artisanal skills through contemporary design. An NID alumna, Shibani brings over 18 years of experience working with artisans and a deep understanding of interior design, making her a valuable asset to the HFH community.
Vipul Jain
Director
An alumnus of IIT-K and IIM-A, Vipul is a serial tech entrepreneur and philanthropist. As Co-founder and Chairman of Kale Logistics, Vipul brings extensive business acumen to HFH, along with his passion for social ventures like the Jabarkhet Nature Reserve and Ona Organics.
Chirashree Thakkar
Director
A heritage evangelist, Chirashree is dedicated to conserving India’s handmade heritage. With vast experience in restoration and conservation, Chirashree’s work spans prestigious projects, including heritage sites and educational institutions.
Meghna Ajit
Executive Council Member
Meghna has a 19-year career in design and development, with a focus on artisan communities.
She combines her skills as a designer, educator, and entrepreneur to drive sustainable practices and grassroots-level innovations.
Devyani Anand
Program Manager
Devyani has 17 years of experience in the Fashion and Toys Retail Industry (Hamleys -Reliance Brands Ltd., Pantaloons - Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd., Vero Moda, Benetton) along with rich entrepreneurial experience. Extremely passionate about sustainable, conscious living, she is now a change maker in the social sector and is creating impact at the intersection of culture, crafts and community.
Sonal Desai
Artisan Workshop Facilitator & Content Writer
Sonal Desai brings years of expertise, including her role as Senior Consultant at Emami Group’s Studio by Starmark and Art Consultant at Masters Collection Art Gallery, Kolkata. As Social Media Outreach Coordinator for Hand for Handmade, she crafts engaging content highlighting artisanal crafts and traditions, fostering meaningful connections with artisans and craft clusters
Our Partners
