Kamaladevi Chattopadhaya-Reminiscences

KAMALADEVI JI’S VISION FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HANDICRAFTS AND HANDLOOMS THROUGH THE COOPERATIVE MOVEMENT What I am going to talk about today may sound like a fairy tale.  It is however the story of a beautiful lady, with a soft voice, a sweet smile and determination of steel. Yes indeed, I am talking about Smt. Kamladevi Chattopadhaya.   IN 1988 when Kamladeviji passed away, as a homage to her, the Crafts Council of India quite appropriately wrote:  "She belonged to a generation of greats who created history by dedicating their lives for the betterment of the nation without craving for personal glory or power……..Setting up the Cottage Industries Emporium and heading the All India Handicrafts Board for years Kamladevi was indeed the 'Grande dame' of Indian handicrafts and folk art, her name being synonymous with craft." My association with her began in 1952 within the context of her efforts to bring livelihood and prestige to artisans and Indian handcrafts.  In my talk today I will recount the story of the birth of India’s premier Handicrafts Enterprise, Central Cottage Industries Emporium.   I will talk about my experience of working with Kamladeviji as well as the many others who were part of this journey as we set up Cottage Industries Emporium.  Since the story began following India’s partition, I have had to recall details from six decades ago and for this I would like to acknowledge my colleague from that time, Mr K B Johar, with whom I have had several discussions to create this ta...