Anarkali is my way of creating more concrete, personally meaningful change in the world – on a small scale, and in beautiful ways.
My goal is to open a shop in Seattle, where I live, that offers functional arts and crafts made by artisans of South Asia, focusing initially on India and Pakistan. I want to help these artisans earn a living wage while celebrating the many facets of South Asian culture that most people in Seattle never experience. To do this I am seeking out high quality products (like textiles, pottery, paper goods, jewelry & accessories, art and furniture) that reflect the craft traditions of South Asian cultures in a style that appeals to Americans – both desis and non-desis. I also hope to create a space for the exploration of South Asian arts, music, and social issues in Seattle, and to encourage connections among the South Asian community which is often divided by age, experience or background. Part of the proceeds of the business will be directed to non-profit organizations that address the needs and interests of the South Asian community in the Pacific Northwest.
Anarkali is a work in progress, and I’ll share some of what I’m learning and doing on this blog.
