Narratives of empowerment: Through the lens of Khatwa craftswomen of Bihar

Women’s empowerment is a complex concept entailing many internal and external factors. This research article explores the role of Khatwa appliqué, a traditional textile craft predominantly practised by women, in driving social and economic empowerment among craftswomen in Bihar, India. The methodology involves interviewing the accomplished craftswomen and developing individual case studies. The research examines the narratives of these master artisans, with a keen focus on comprehending how engagement in Khatwa appliqué has been instrumental in their empowerment journey. It also delves into the sources of inspiration, techniques and materials employed in this historically utilitarian craft – Khatwa appliqué. Our findings indicate that the Khatwa craft may have played a substantial role in advancing the socio-economic empowerment of craftswomen. The craft seems to have contributed significantly to improving their financial independence, increasing their mobility, heightening their levels of awareness and cultivating their self-confidence. Together, these outcomes have resulted in an overall enhancement of their socio-economic status, resulting in a heightened level of empowerment. The research findings contribute to the limited but growing literature on the role of crafts on several facets of women’s empowerment in Bihar.