Chandresh is a member of a weavers’ family from Bhujodi. His grandfather Parbatbhai was a leader of the community, and won
an‘Excellence award.’ Chandresh’s father Virambhai initially worked for others, but gradually started his own retail business. He
opened a shop 20 years ago and has developed a customer base among Army and Air Force officers. After the earthquake of
2001, Virambhai diversified his business to other crafts as well. Chandresh studied to 12th standard in Bhuj, and worked in the
family business in his spare time. He joined began a Bachelor of Science, but due to a severe accident he lost three years and
could not complete his studies or practice weaving. He started weaving again after joining the course at KRV. Chandresh is
currently in charge of his family shop and has enjoyed good relations with regular customers.
His work should be unique, and for that he must innovate with a deep knowledge of his tradition. Chandresh feels that young
people are losing interest in weaving as industrialization provides better opportunities. But those who understand craft will survive
all situations. The future will be good if craft persons can innovate and adapt to overcome challenges offered by changing demands.
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