Craft Collective, an institution-led initiative aimed at strengthening India’s craft ecosystem, today announced its inaugural forum scheduled to take place in Kolkata from January 29 to February 1, 2026. The announcement was made at a press meet held at the Press Club, Kolkata,
Organised by the Foundation for MSME Clusters (FMC) in partnership with Karu, Red Strategy Partners, and The Red Bari, Kolkata, and supported by Cisco under the India Cash Grant Program, Craft Collective brings together artisans, designers, institutions, buyers, and cultural practitioners to bridge the gap between traditional craft clusters and contemporary global markets.
The four-day forum will unfold across multiple layers of engagement, including curated exhibitions and a marketplace, dialogue sessions, masterclasses, and cultural performances. Artisan clusters from across India such as Assam, Odisha, and Madhya Pradesh will participate, offering visitors an opportunity to engage directly with regional craft traditions and practitioners.
Kolkata was chosen as the launch city in recognition of its historic role as a centre for textiles, trade, and cultural exchange. “The city has long served as a conduit through which craft, ideas, and artistic practices travelled across borders. Launching Craft Collective here allows us to honour that legacy while building contemporary pathways forward”, Mr Sagnik Lahiri, General Manager, Foundation of MSME Clusters noted.
The forum is expected to see participation from leading voices within the textile and craft ecosystem, including Shri Vikram Joshi, one of India’s prominent textile entrepreneurs; and Nandita Raja, a noted textile icon from Bengal. Senior diplomatic representation is also expected, with the Consul Generals of France and Italy among the distinguished guests.
Craft Collective invites designers, buyers, retailers, cultural practitioners, students, and members of the wider creative community to attend the forum and engage with India’s rich and diverse craft traditions through dialogue, discovery, and collaboration.
