Meet The Artisans
For centuries women in the Himalayas have been making warm, woolen clothing to cope with the cold, mountainous climate of their homes. The artisans of Naari, having been raised in this wool-working tradition, learned knitting and weaving from their mothers. Today they are working with professional designers joining their traditional patterns and stitches with contemporary concepts to create fashionable products.
Relying on local materials, the artisans make various goods using wool in the natural colors found the region. Indian-made yarns, especially lambs’ hair, are used as well. The members of Himalayan Naari are creating an exquisite range of knitted and woven blankets, shawls, scarves, hats and other clothing items. Due to the beauty and quality of their craft, business is growing steadily and more local artisans continue to join the project.
REKHA KARKI
Master Knitter
Rekha Karki is a Master Knitter at Himalayan Naari. She has a unique skill in being able to create our new product samples. In addition to product development, Rekha trains the other Naari artisans in knitting new items.
Rekha is a native of the Chakouri region. She has raised her family in Chakouri and sends her two children to the Himalayan InterCollege.
BASANTI KARKI
Situated at the border where India meets Tibet and Nepal, Darma valley is dotted with high altitude Trans Himalayan pastures. Every summer shepherds take their flocks to these grass lands. The wool obtained from the sheep is highly valued in the local markets as its the best in quality and clothes made from this wool are much in demand.
Deepa Koranga
a founding member
Deepa Koranga is another founding member of Himalayan Naari. As the mother of energetic twin boys, she has been renting a room in Chakouri so they can attend school. Deepa herself has an 8th grade education and has high hopes for her own sons. In talking about her own ambitions, Deepa commented, “At Himalayan Naari we work cooperatively together. I have learned new knitting stitches and some computer skills. Himalayan Naari has given me self-determination and economic independence.”
Deepa Gaira
Master Knitter
In describing the impact of Himalayan Naari on her life, Deepa Gaira reported, “From Himalayan Naari, we have learned how to work cooperatively and find inspiration in other women…we are now self-confident ladies who have learned many new things.” As a mother of two children, living in a rented room in Chakouri so that her children can get a good education, Deepa is very invested in improving her family situation. As a master knitter, she has created many exquisite products including intricate shawls and couch throws.
Geeta Pathak
Co-leader of shipping team
As one of the co-leaders for the shipping team, Geeta’s is responsible for the final dispatch of Naari items to the US. Geeta prepares the invoice and inventory forms which are vital for the payment of Naari artisans and the tracking of items. She also assists in checking quality check and preparing items for shipment. Geeta is a skilled seamstress, as well as knitter. She has a Master’s degree in Home Science.
Over 60 Artisans
NAARI LEADERSHIP TEAM
Himalayan Naari is a catalyst for long-term change by providing women artisans with opportunities for economic empowerment, improved health and nutrition and ways to strengthen their community.
Our leadership team works across the Atlanta Ocean rooted in the local Himalayan community and the US based team.