Originally reported and written in March 2023, this story has been republished as part of our archival content.

In Guwahati, a group of artisans can be seen working hard, weaving cane into myriad designs. Later this month, the coffee tables, lampshades and chairs they have created will find a home in rustic cafes in major metropolitans, as well as in decor showrooms across India. 

With the uptick in bamboo crafts and sustainable decor, the increasing number of such artisan led ventures comes as no surprise. In fact, they are being encouraged as part of the National Bamboo Mission, conceptualised by the government in 2018. Weaving is not a novel technique, but rather one of the oldest known to civilisation. 

This programme, too, is a step towards expanding the existing area under bamboo plantation, thus rejuvenating the bamboo industry in India. This will lead to a significant decrease in imported bamboo, enable artisans to earn more through handcrafted products, while amplifying the ‘Make in India’ clarion call. 

CanbooCraft in Guwahati is one such venture started by Varsha Bajaj, a 45-year-old arts graduate from the city. The “complete organic online store” started in 2021 offers a wide range of bamboo, cane and other handmade products. 

But what is fascinating is the story of its inception. 

A series of learnings  

In conversation with The Better India, Varsha emphasises the truth in the idiom that in the toughest of times, one realises their true potential. So, was the case of her becoming an entrepreneur. 

“While my native place is Guwahati, I moved to Meghalaya after marriage. In 2018, I lost my husband. I was uncertain on how to go on, and at the time, thought of going to........

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