Weaving A New Legacy in Rural Community

In Ballavpur Danga, a village near Santiniketan, 42-year-old Deepak Sangarg is steadily reshaping the idea of rural entrepreneurship. A graduate of Kala Bhavana, he has turned his formal training in arts into a focused and purposeful studio practice.

His work centres on natural dyeing techniques, along with detailed Jamdani weaving and silk craftsmanship. Deepak doesn’t work in isolation—he partners with established weaving clusters in Bankura, Bishnupur, and Nadia to ensure that every piece reflects the depth and authenticity of regional traditions.

He also plays an important role in connecting rural artisans with urban markets. By presenting his naturally dyed textiles at exhibitions in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Chennai, he brings wider recognition and better value to the work created in his community.

At the core of “Taranga” lies a strong social commitment. Deepak currently employs six women from his village and nearby areas, training them in specialized textile skills and offering them a steady source of income.

 For some, this opportunity has been transformative. Tanushree Bauri, for instance, was able to rebuild her family’s financial stability after the pandemic. Meanwhile, Saina Ahmed, a 24-year-old student, now earns her own income without having to give up her education or leave home.

 Deepak’s path—from an art student to a community-focused entrepreneur—highlights what can be achieved by combining tradition with initiative. What began as a one-person effort is gradually growing, with plans to expand and employ more people locally. His work demonstrates how preserving traditional crafts can also create meaningful economic and social change.