Vikramgad Bamboo Upskilling Project, Maharashtra
Duration: January–April 2025 | August 2025 | December 2025
A year-long, four-phase bamboo upskilling program conducted by Keshav Shristhi and EkiBeki Association, primarily for women artisans in Vikramgad.
The workshop followed a deeply immersive, community-based model, with two female designers from EkiBeki living and working in the village. Before formal training began, time was invested in understanding the artisans’ social ecosystem, daily challenges, and existing bamboo practices, ensuring cultural sensitivity and trust.
Training Methodology
Learning by doing and hands-on experimentation
Encouraging independent work and decision-making
Creating a safe, joyful, and collaborative learning environment
Blending traditional bamboo knowledge with contemporary design thinking
Phased Training
Phase 1: Trust Building & Skill Assessment
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Rapport and confidence building
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Documentation of existing bamboo practices
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Assessment of skill levels and aspirations
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Introduction to basic design thinking
Phase 2: Skill Enhancement
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Advanced bamboo bending techniques
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Natural and contemporary dyeing (tea and harda)
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Improved finishing, durability, and quality standards
Phase 3: Product Development & Costing
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Development of 16 new bamboo products
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Training in costing, pricing, and financial literacy
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Focus on functionality, aesthetics, and market relevance
Phase 4: Marketing & Independence
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Introduction to basic marketing concepts
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Quality consistency and refinement
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Strengthening independent working habits
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Group reflections and aspiration mapping
Outcomes & Impact
Skill Upgradation
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New dyeing, bending, and finishing techniques
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Ability to innovate while retaining craft identity
Livelihood & Economic Awareness
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Improved understanding of pricing and value of labour
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Increased confidence in engaging with markets
Social & Personal Development
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Enhanced confidence, communication, and leadership
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Strong peer learning and ownership of craft
Independence & Agency
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Reduced dependence on supervision
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Stronger decision-making and problem-solving skills
Additional Impact
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7 design lines developed (trays, coasters, baskets)
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35–40 women trained over 3 months
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Cluster potential to train 600 women
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Vikramgad identified as EkiBeki’s pilot bamboo cluster
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Creation of products with desired level of finish
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Cluster has potential to train 600 women
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Vikramgad will be pilot cluster for our foray into Bamboo
