Chak Islampur, a small village in Murshidabad, West Bengal, a group of women are making beautiful products from jute—a natural and strong fibre. These women—Kohinur Khatun, Murshida Khatun, Manuara Bibi, Rousna Khatun, Rina Khatun, and Sahanaz Khatun—make things like bags, mats, pouches, and home items by hand.
Jute is known as the “golden fibre” and is good for the environment. These women have learned to turn simple jute into useful and stylish products that people can use every day.
The women of Chalk Islampur are keeping that tradition alive. At the same time, they are earning money, becoming independent, and supporting their families.