Reviving Traditional Art- The Story of Tadaka Sindhu and Vaarahi Hasthakala
In the Mulugu district of Telangana, an ancient craft was on the brink of disappearing: bottle gourd art, once a vital part of tribal culture, was losing its relevance in the modern world. Yet, one woman, Tadaka Sindhu, took it upon herself to revive this forgotten art form, transforming it into a thriving business through resilience and creativity
Sindhu’s journey began in Parakala, where she faced numerous challenges growing up in a modest household reliant on agricultural work. Despite these hardships, she discovered a natural talent for art, finding joy in weaving intricate patterns and painting vibrant scenes. Lacking formal training, she turned to social media to learn new techniques and explore various art forms. It was during this exploration that she stumbled upon bottle gourd art, a craft that involves carving and painting dried gourds into decorative pieces. Recognizing its potential, she envisioned a way to rejuvenate this traditional craft.
However, turning her vision into reality was not without obstacles. Sindhu faced limitations in resources and market exposure, which threatened to stifle her ambitions. The turning point came in 2024-2025, when she joined Project Inclusion a collaborative initiative supported by ReSL and implemented by Ramky Foundation with WE Hub as technical partners. This program provided her with financial support and a network that helped her gain the skills and confidence needed to grow her business.
With guidance from Project Inclusion, Sindhu registered her venture, Vaarahi Hasthakala, as a legal entity through Udyam Registration. This milestone marked her transition from an independent artist to a recognized entrepreneur. Armed with newfound confidence, she began showcasing her handcrafted bottle gourd lamps at various exhibitions and flea markets, including the Hitex Exhibition, Christmas Carnival, and Saras Mela. The positive feedback she received confirmed that her craft had a place in today’s market.
A significant breakthrough occurred when Sindhu secured a permanent stall at the Indira Mahila Sakthi Bazaar near Shilparamam, Hitech City, thanks to support from WE Hub. Her dedication and hard work were further recognized when she received the Green Entrepreneur Award from the Backward Classes Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BICCI). This accolade highlighted the impact of her eco-friendly products and established her as a sustainability entrepreneur.
Embracing the digital age, Sindhu then started an Instagram page to connect directly with customers and promote her creations. This online presence allowed her to reach a global audience, establishing her brand as one that champions both sustainability and artistry.
Today, Vaarahi Hasthakala represents more than just a business; it is a movement aimed at preserving heritage while embracing innovation. By transforming simple bottle gourds into beautiful chandeliers and lamps, Sindhu has redefined traditional craftsmanship in an environmentally conscious manner. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many women artisans who are aspiring to leverage their skills to create sustainable livelihoods.
