Khaberni - Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah visited the Chanakya School of Crafts in Mumbai on Saturday, and listened to a brief about the school's programs and its efforts to preserve the rich Indian artistic heritage.
At the start of the visit, both the Creative Director of Chanakya International and the Founder and Creative Director of its craft school, Karishma Swali, and Nihal Shah, the Director of Chanakya International, explained to Her Majesty about the institution's vision upon its founding and its professional and artistic journey.
The Chanakya School of Crafts was established in 2016 under the umbrella of Chanakya International, a global house of textiles and embroidery founded in Mumbai. The school works to enhance cultural sustainability and holistic growth through education and skill development, contributing to the creative and economic independence of women, and the preservation and nurturing of Indian craft heritage and arts.
Her Majesty toured the educational facilities at the school and explored its educational methodology and ongoing initiatives.
The Chanakya School of Crafts offers training in over 300 hand embroidery techniques, training over 1400 women to date from various ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Her Majesty also toured the Craft Explorations exhibit and the school’s archive, where heritage materials and textiles are displayed alongside contemporary craftworks in a way that links tradition and innovation. She also visited the “Living Museum,” which reflects the philosophy of teamwork and time-honored craftsmanship.
Chanakya International for Textiles and Embroidery was founded in 1984 to preserve and revitalize Indian cultural heritage and has collaborated with over 40 fashion houses worldwide.
