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Mrignayani

Mrignayani is a Hindi term meaning "doe-eyed," and it is a term of endearment to refer to beautiful women. Mr. R.P. Singh is Mrignayani's Deputy Chief General Manager. He speaks of how Mrignayani has changed the life of artisans in his home state of Madhya Pradesh, and how they have prepared them for a better future:

"Mrignayani is established by the Madhya Pradesh Laghu Udyoj Nigam (MPLUN), a government undertaking aimed at facilitating artisans to enter proper markets by training them in a variety of technique and designs. Mrignayani is constantly implementing the State Government's policy for development of the Small Scale Industries (SSI), and Cottage industry sector.

"Since its insertion, Mrignayani has diversified, expanded and increased its activities. Our mission is to develop and sustain the targeted sector, be it infrastructure development or technical consultancy; supply of raw material; or, marketing of finished products. Our constant effort is aimed at presenting the unique work of artisans to the world and in return, to offer them a respectable earning, accolades and appreciation. This has helped artisans realize their true talent and the dignity of their labor. In this way, their art possesses the elements of real greatness.

"There are Mrignayani centers across the country, and each one focuses on the unique and traditional art of the state. We believe the craftsman is not an individual expressing individual whims, but a part of the universe, giving expression to ideals of central beauty and unchanging laws, just as trees and flowers express the natural and less ordered beauty that is God-given.

"The Mrignayani centers display a wide range of products, including the woven poetry of Chanderi, Maheshwari and Kosa; Tussar silk saris; dress material; home and office furnishings; handicrafts; jewelry; bell metal crafts, and many more. The highly developed skills of weavers, and artisans reflect the glory of Madhya Pradesh through their hand-crafted products.

"In this way, MPLUN is not only providing the much needed support for the development and marketing of the hand-loomed and hand-crafted sector, but is also providing design development support. We organize workshops along with the National Institute of Fashion Technology as well as with other foreign designers to improve artisans' skills.

"We are very happy to be associated with Novica. I hope this platform will bring more opportunities for the artisans of Madhya Pradesh."