Kala Aparajita

When natural disaster strikes, craftspeople and artists struggle to regain their livelihood and often end up vulnerable to unscrupulous middlemen. Kala Aparajita, based in New Delhi, is a development program that grew out of the Voluntary Health Association of India’s work with artisans. This unique program works with traditional artists, helping them to rebuild their lives after devastating disasters like the Indian Ocean earthquake and recent tsunami. Artisans benefit from a support system that empowers them to reduce their dependence on middlemen and to develop more marketable, high-quality products. Kala Aparajita’s broad array of fair trade products range from handmade recycled paper gift bags to ornate wall-hangings to tote bags.