Empowering women through traditional art

Dr. Anupama Venkatesh has been honoured with the Abhaya Bravery Award for her exceptional contributions to preserving Aari embroidery and empowering women through skill education. With over 16 years of experience, she has trained more than 3,000 women across India, helping them gain financial independence and revive this intricate art form.

A journey across cities

Dr. Anupama began her journey in Mumbai, continued her work in Hyderabad, and is now based in Udupi-Mangaluru. Her dedication to promoting Aari embroidery, a traditional craft, stems from her belief in art as a tool for empowerment.

Financial independence through heritage art

Aari embroidery not only represents India’s rich cultural heritage but also serves as a source of livelihood for many women. Dr. Anupama’s training programmes focus on ensuring that women, including those without formal education, can master this skill. Her classes emphasize both creativity and precision, enabling women to transform their artistic talents into sustainable businesses.

Therapeutic and skill-enhancing benefits

Beyond financial gains, Aari embroidery offers therapeutic benefits that contribute to mental well-being and improved physical dexterity. Dr. Anupama believes that engaging in art reduces stress and builds confidence, helping women find a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Adapting to the pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Anupama swiftly transitioned to online classes, expanding her reach across different regions of India. This virtual platform allowed her to train women from diverse backgrounds, fostering a supportive community of artisans and entrepreneurs.

Recognition for her work

In November 2024, Dr. Anupama was honoured with the Suvarna Karnataka Award for Women Empowerment and Skill Education, further acknowledging her role in transforming lives through traditional arts.

A voice for traditional crafts

Grateful for the recognition by the Abhaya Bravery Award Jury, Dr. Anupama expressed her appreciation for the platform given to traditional art forms and women’s empowerment initiatives. She remains committed to nurturing creativity, preserving heritage, and promoting self-reliance among women across India.

Her work stands as a beacon of hope, proving that art can be a powerful tool for both personal and economic transformation.