Usha Silai Schools Empowering Tribal Women Through Traditional Art Forms Across India

Khneng, a multiline, centipede-like embroidery traditionally done on Eri silk is a unique art form. Around 80 kilometers from Shillong, in the Shella Bholaganj subdivision of the East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya lies a small village Mustoh. It is the only known village for Khneng embroidery.

Khneng embroidery uses needles and threads with basic running stitches. It requires an attentive application of the mind, eyes, and hands.

The collaboration between Usha and Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS) is keeping the tradition alive. The stitching is done on Eri silk, locally known as Jain ryndia, which is eventually used to decorate the border of their traditional garments.

Moving from Khneng embroidery in Meghalaya, let's take a look at traditional tribal art, Warli, characterised by its simple yet captivating depictions of rural life. The Usha Silai School has made significant strides in uplifting tribal women by incorporating Warli art into embroidery.

Usha's Silai School initiative aims to make women financially independent by enabling them to start their small-scale enterprises. One such beneficiary is Vandana Gadag, from Velugam in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, who teaches other women how to stitch and sew.

At her Silai School, Vandana teaches women from the surrounding areas how to turn this art form into beautiful embroidery, which can eventually be used to embellish different products. This Silai School initiative of fusing Warli art with embroidery has been transformative for tribal women in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Another ancient art form is Toda embroidery practicised by women of the Toda tribe who live in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu which is deeply intertwined with their culture and heritage. Toda embroidery is renowned for its exquisite beauty and intricate patterns.

Through the Usha Silai School, tribal women gain the necessary skills to create marketable products. They can monetise their Toda embroidery skills by making garments, accessories, and home decor items, giving themselves a sustainable source of income and economic independence.