Tibetan Handicraft Society Mcleod Ganj.
The Tibetan Handicraft Society is an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Tibetan arts and culture, with a special focus on traditional carpet weaving. Established in 1963 with the support of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the society provides employment, training, and welfare support to Tibetan refugees and Tibetans living in exile.
Business Name: Tibetan Handicrafts Production-Cum-Sale Co-op. Industrial Society Ltd. Mcleod Ganj.
History
The Tibetan Handicraft Society was founded in 1963 with contributions from His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Since its inception, the society has been instrumental in training Tibetans in the traditional craft of carpet weaving. Over the years, it has provided employment to thousands of Tibetans, helping them maintain a stable livelihood while preserving a crucial part of their cultural heritage.
Objectives : Tibetan Handicrafts Centre
The primary aims of the society include:
- Preserving and promoting Tibetan arts and culture.
- Providing employment opportunities to Tibetan refugees and exiles.
- Offering training in traditional Tibetan weaving to young and unemployed Tibetans.
- Supporting the education of workers’ children.
- Ensuring comfortable living conditions and financial security for its workers.
- Customizing handmade rugs according to customer designs.
Employment and Welfare Programs
The Tibetan Handicraft Society offers comprehensive welfare programs to its workers. These include:
- Accommodation and housing support.
- Educational assistance for children.
- Pension plans for retired workers.
- Coordination of medical care.
- Financial support for funeral expenses of workers and their families.
- A three-month winter holiday during which workers can conduct small businesses with financial assistance from the society, receiving a credit of Rs. 50,000.
The society is a registered legal body and strictly opposes child labor. It is managed entirely by the workers under the guidance of the Tibetan Government-in-exile.
Cultural Importance
Tibetan carpet weaving is a significant aspect of Tibetan cultural heritage. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has frequently emphasized the importance of preserving this tradition, particularly in exile. The Tibetan Handicraft Society plays a vital role in maintaining this craft, while also sharing it with international communities through its products.
Products and Services
The society specializes in handmade carpets, traditional Tibetan handicrafts, and religious items, with outlets in Mcleod Ganj and Dharamsala. All products are handmade without the use of machines, ensuring high quality. The tailoring section of the society focuses on producing Tibetan traditional clothing and handbags. Custom designs can also be incorporated into their handmade carpets upon request.
For international customers, taxes are exempted if payments are made in foreign currency. The society encourages visitors to tour their facilities and learn more about their operations.
Social Contribution
Purchases from the Tibetan Handicraft Society are considered more than just business transactions. They are viewed as contributions to the preservation of Tibetan culture, arts, and community, providing essential support to Tibetan refugees and their families. The organization expresses deep gratitude to its customers for their role in sustaining Tibetan heritage.
Care Instructions for Carpets
The society provides guidance on maintaining the longevity of their handmade carpets:
- Carpets should be rolled for storage or transport.
- Carpets should not be exposed to sunlight for extended periods.
- They are washable in any clean water, ensuring long-lasting durability.