Rajshahi: ‘Nakshi Kantha’, a traditional embroidered quilt, has emerged as a significant source of income for women in the Rajshahi region, transforming them into entrepreneurs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the intricate art of Nakshi Kantha, once confined to domestic use, has evolved into a thriving cottage industry. This industry not only empowers women but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Shahnaz Khatun, a 54-year-old resident of Jogipara village in Natore district, exemplifies this transformation. She started her kantha-making venture in 2019 with a modest capital of Tk 1,700. Inspired by a block boutique shop at RDA Market in Rajshahi, Khatun now employs digital methods to create Nakshi Kantha, earning a monthly profit of Tk 7,000-8,000. Her success has inspired other women in her locality to take up kantha making, creating employment opportunities in the process.
Dinesh Hasda, an entrepreneur from Kakonhat in Godagari upazila, employs around 250 women in his business, ‘Adivasi Santa kantha’. Each artisan earns between Tk 1,000 and Tk 1,500 per kantha, depending on the size. Hasda’s business produces approximately 1,000 Nakshi Kanthas monthly, exporting them to 15 countries through Prokritee Bangladesh, a non-government development organization. His annual sales have reached around Taka 25 lakh, starting from an initial investment of Taka one lakh.
Women like Sheuly Basko and Monwara Begum from Godagari upazila have also found financial independence through Nakshi Kantha. Basko earns up to Tk 3,800 monthly, while Begum coordinates several artisans’ efforts. The quilts take one to two weeks to make, depending on the design, with medium-sized quilts taking 2-3 months to complete.
Taharima Begum Lucky, proprietor of ‘Nur Nakshi’, employs around 2,200 women in her organization, using old clothes to create various designs. Her company has expanded to multiple locations, including Chapainawabganj city and others. Taharima’s efforts have played a pivotal role in commercializing the traditional quilt, providing tools and designs to women who then work to fulfill orders for domestic and international markets. The initiative has significantly contributed to women’s financial independence in the region.