At the edge of the Little Rann of Kutch lies Dasada village, where a riot of colours is brewing. Several members of the Mir community sit with a spread of beadwork before them. They will turn these into stunning accessories, which will then find their way to metropolitan cities across India. 

As the workers burn the midnight oil, Niyati Kukadia marvels at them, astounded by how a century-old art form remains alive thanks to the efforts of the Mir women. 

Niyati, a chemical engineer from Ahmedabad, works with the Mir women at her venture Tokar Sustainable Designs, which she began to empower the community and help them earn a sustainable livelihood. 

The inspiration to work with the community came to her during a trip to the Rann of Kutch, as part of her other venture Soar Excursions, where she curates experiential travel itineraries for tourists. 

Stumbling upon the stories of this nomadic community would go on to shape the rest of Niyati’s life and career. It would also go on to breathe new life into the traditional beadwork of the Mirs. 

The 32-year-old recounts in conversation with The Better India that her childhood was filled with watching the magic of local crafts, thanks to her parents, who were always interested in exposing her to diverse experiences. “We would go on wildlife walks, and meet different communities during our travels. We were given the freedom to explore and understand the ecological fabric of the state.” 

So on completing her graduation, Niyati decided to explore the world, beginning with a place she had loved — Gujarat. She would roam through the villages, taking a deep interest in the artisans’ work, and eventually see a different side to travel. 

In 2014, Niyati started Soar Excursions, which led her to the threshold........

© The Better India