By Madhya Pradesh, often called the “Heart of Incredible India,” has added a new chapter to its vibrant cultural legacy with the launch of the state’s first-ever women-operated Handloom Café. Situated in Pranpur village, near the historic town of Chanderi in the Ashoknagar district, the café aims to empower local women artisans while providing visitors with a unique culinary and cultural experience.
A Platform for Empowering Women and Celebrating Craftsmanship
The Handloom Café is more than just a dining spot—it’s a hub for empowerment and cultural exchange. Run entirely by local women, the café offers an immersive blend of regional cuisine and handcrafted textiles. Women involved in the operations, from kitchen to cash management, have undergone specialized hospitality training at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Bhopal, ensuring excellent service and professionalism.
- Key Roles Managed by Women:
- Front office management
- Culinary tasks
- Cash and financial handling
- Security and guest services
To ensure smooth operations, the Sakhi Saheli Lok Kalyan Sangh collective has been established. This initiative is a shining example of community-driven tourism, encouraging financial independence among women and positioning Madhya Pradesh as a leader in sustainable tourism practices.
Handloom Café: A Blend of Cuisine and Culture
The café showcases authentic culinary experiences alongside a carefully curated collection of handcrafted textiles. Visitors can browse through Chanderi sarees, scarves, home décor items, and accessories, all produced by talented women artisans.
An important feature of the café is the direct interaction between visitors and artisans, providing a space for storytelling and a glimpse into the lives of the weavers behind these creations. Tourists can engage with the weavers to learn about the centuries-old craft techniques used to produce these iconic textiles.
Visitors get to explore local workshops in Pranpur village, witnessing the intricate weaving process firsthand, adding another layer of authenticity to their experience. This combination of slow tourism and responsible travel offers a tranquil escape for those seeking something beyond mainstream destinations.
Pranpur: A Hidden Gem for Cultural Travelers
Pranpur village is famous for its Chanderi handloom traditions, which have been passed down through generations. Its picturesque mud houses, rural landscape, and peaceful environment make it the perfect setting for those interested in rural tourism.
The Handloom Café provides a refreshing take on tourism, promoting safe destinations for solo travelers, especially women, while also supporting community development initiatives. This initiative aligns with Madhya Pradesh’s Responsible Tourism mission, ensuring both economic benefits and cultural preservation.
- Top Experiences in Pranpur:
- Visiting artisan workshops to watch Chanderi weaving
- Exploring the scenic village environment and mud homes
- Shopping for handcrafted textiles directly from local women weavers
A New Benchmark in Indian Tourism
With this innovative initiative, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has created a new benchmark in responsible tourism. By supporting women entrepreneurs and highlighting local craftsmanship, the Handloom Café is set to attract both domestic and international travelers. The café not only provides employment to the women of Pranpur but also helps preserve the handloom heritage that the region is famous for.
The launch of the Handloom Café underscores the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism, empowering communities, and encouraging cultural exchange. Pranpur is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers eager to experience India’s artisan legacy firsthand while enjoying a meaningful and memorable retreat.