Communication and Challenges of Capacity Development: A Case Study of Bagru Hand Block Printing

Abstract

Bagru printing is a traditional hand block printing method that is more than 300 years old. The printing is done using natural dyes. The colors are achieved through mixtures of flowers, tree barks, roots and clay. Though the industry has flourished over the years there is a great imbalance between the popularity of industry and the state of artisans. The introduction of synthetic dyes has also created more problems for the artisans creating a disparity among the craftsmen leading to more commodification and disengagement among the artisans. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic has put the industry on standstill aggravating their conditions. Based on the conceptual framework of communication for development prepared by OneWorld Network for SDC, the paper explores possible reasons for the imbalance and suggest means to maximize the artisans' networking between people around the world including access tools and knowledge and best practice for capacity development. The study also looked into possible support mechanisms for intermediary facilitation by Manipal University Jaipur through training, workshop, redistribution and others.