In recent years, there has been a downward trend in the demand for Indian arts and crafts. This decline can be attributed to the rising popularity of modern art in home decoration and the diversification of consumer in- terests. As a result, traditional items like wood scul- ptures, terracotta products, and woven goods have experienced a decrease in demand.

A bunch of students from Shri Ram College of Co- mmerce in Delhi kicked off a project called Rivaayat on November 17, 2019.

During the early stages of the research, convincing the artisans to join them posed a significant challenge for the team. Nevertheless, they persevered and revamped their model and plan to better address the challenges faced by the artisans.

After conversing with the artisans and understanding their situation, the team stumbled upon Uttam Nagar in Delhi, which happens to be the largest potters' colony in India, housing over 600 artisan families. Through various surveys and assessments, they discovered that these artisans were barely earning Rs 5,000 per month. Additionally, they noticed that potters skilled in fine pottery were shifting to producing raw pottery to meet the demand during festivals and earn more money.

Recognizing that the primary issue faced by these artisans was the lack of direct access to markets, the team initiated Rivaayat to support them and others like them. Under the guidance of Shri Giriraj Prasad ji, a national award recipient and internationally acclaimed potter, they aim to make a difference in the lives of these artisans.

The terracotta pottery artisans are located across three states: Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana, with a total of four artisan clusters spread out among these regions. Rivaayat has developed a collection of over 50 products, blending contemporary and traditional elements, which are now available on over 20 e-commerce platforms.

In addition, Rivaayat expands its initiatives with the introduction of terracotta workshops in schools. This endeavor seeks to educate and engage students who are increasingly dis- connected from their cultural heritage, offering them an opportunity to learn about the ancient craft of terracotta. Through these workshops, Rivaayat endeavors to instill an appreciation for tradition and craftsmanship among the youth, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage.

Rivaayat is in talks to partner with CoolAnt to help artisans explore the new domain of Terracotta Cooling Pots used for thermal cooling in buildings.

“With Rivaayat, I got a platform again to show my skills and showcase my artform to the world. Now, I have a sustainable income throughout the year and even more than that, now I can firmly believe that even after me, the art form will continue and will be immortal as it should be.” Ganga Sahay Prajapat, a terracotta artisan from Delhi shares.

For the road ahead, Rivaayat aspires to convert itself into a hub that undertakes multiple artforms under its umbrella with a singular goal to revive the dying art forms.