Somaiya Kala Vidya is dedicated to sustaining traditional art forms by empowering artisans with education that enhances both their creative and economic potential. We believe that when artisans lead the evolution of their craft, they preserve cultural integrity, ensuring that traditions thrive as a vibrant part of our heritage.
Our institution offers accessible higher education tailored to the needs of working artisans in Kachchh, Gujarat, and Bagalkote, Karnataka. Through structured eleven-month courses in design and business, we provide sustained learning opportunities that align with artisan lifestyles. Our curricula, schedule, and language of instruction are thoughtfully designed to support their journey.
At Somaiya Kala Vidya, education is built on a deep respect for tradition. Our courses begin by fostering an appreciation for heritage before introducing new knowledge and skills that enable artisans to apply design and business principles effectively. By diversifying traditional practices while maintaining their cultural identity, we help artisans create a distinct presence in contemporary markets.
Our approach strengthens both individual artisans and the broader craft sector. We achieve this by:
- Building on existing artisan knowledge, skills, design sensibilities, and innovation.
- Using hands-on, problem-solving projects that directly contribute to artisans' ongoing work.
- Providing real-world evaluation through direct market exposure
Through this holistic education, we aim to:
- Enhance artisans’ confidence in their expertise
- Elevate the value and recognition of traditional crafts
- Improve artisans' socio-economic well-being, enabling them to sustain and grow their practices.
At Somaiya Kala Vidya, we are not just preserving traditions - we are ensuring they evolve, flourish, and remain a vital part of our shared cultural legacy.