Exploring the Digital Spaces of Women Artisans in Kashida Crafts

Case Stories From Thar Desert of Western Rajasthan

Bibliographic Data

ID2309588
AuthorsShripama Thounaojam (0009-0009-3307-7665, Central University of Rajasthan), Jaya Kritika Ojha (0000-0001-5124-3326, Central University of Rajasthan, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume61
Issue2
Pages1140-1155
Publication date2025-01-28
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Asian and African Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0021-9096 • E-ISSN: 1745-2538
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/00219096251313548
OpenAlexW4406957494
LanguageEN
References cited22

Kashida crafts (hand embroidery) have been practiced for centuries and have a rich cultural heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation. However, with the advent of modern technology, changing trends in fashion, and the thriving markets of machine-made craft products, handmade crafts such as Kashida are progressively losing their relevance in recent times. The paper aims at exploring the perspectives, narratives, challenges and barriers of women artisans of the desert in adopting the digital ecosystem for their craft. The paper follows a qualitative approach and undertakes thematic analysis from the case of 10 women artisans to draw inferences on critical factors, bottlenecks and the possibilities of strengthening the digital spaces. The findings reveal that there is financial instability and a generational gap in digital literacy. Overcoming these barriers can empower artisans to utilize digital platforms for wider reach and cultural preservation

African studies · Desert (philosophy · Gender relations · Geography · Political science · Sociology · Crafts, Textile, and Design · Gender Studies · Indian Economic and Social Development

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