The Baghara Handloom Cluster, led by the Baghara Traditional Dress Making Co-operative Society Limited, is an example of how traditional weaving can support sustainable rural livelihoods, with a growing base of 515 member shareholders. The cooperative, primarily composed of skilled women weavers, is well known for its unique handwoven products such as mekhela chaddars, sarees, gamuchas, and home furnishings, which reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. Over the past year, the cluster has made significant progress in enhancing production capacity, improving product quality, and expanding market access through targeted efforts in skill development, technology adoption, and design innovation.
Through sustained efforts under various capacity-building programs and collaborations with institutions like the Weavers Service Centre, PUM Netherlands, etc., the cluster has empowered local artisans, promoted entrepreneurship, and strengthened grassroots institutions. The Baghara cluster’s progress showcases the potential of community-led development in preserving traditional crafts while creating sustainable economic opportunities for rural artisans.
Ughaa Weaves:
The cooperative has seen significant growth, supported by ICCo’s continuous intervention, skill upgradation programs, and dedicated training sessions. The MSME-supported SFURTI scheme has accelerated the technical progress of artisans, enhancing their craftsmanship, while the Azim Premji Foundation has played a crucial role in strengthening collaboration, institutional building, and brand development. The brand ‘Ughaa,’ launched in 2021, stands as a symbol of the artisans’ skill, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.
At the heart of Ughaa Weaves are the women artisans, who have preserved and evolved traditional Assamese dressmaking while embracing modern entrepreneurial opportunities. Their dedication has not only sustained heritage craftsmanship but has also inspired the younger generation, particularly young girls, to take on leadership roles in production, marketing, and business operations. The cooperative has become a space where experience meets innovation, ensuring that cultural heritage thrives while adapting to contemporary markets.
More than just a brand, Ughaa Weaves represents the identity, artistry, and aspirations of the women artisans of Baghara. Rooted in Assamese traditions yet evolving with changing times, Ughaa is a fusion of heritage and contemporary fashion, offering handcrafted textiles that reflect the rich cultural essence of the region. With its first store now open, Ughaa is set to bring locally crafted, high-quality apparel to a wider audience, empowering artisans with sustainable livelihoods while keeping the legacy of traditional dressmaking alive for generations to come.