Economy
Laila Tyabji, founder of Dastkar, passes away at 86
The development
What happened
Laila Tyabji, a pioneering advocate for India’s handloom and craft communities, died on August 8, 2026 at the age of 86. She founded Dastkar, an organisation that revived traditional crafts and supported artisans nationwide. Her work bridged cultural heritage with economic empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on India’s handloom sector.
At a glance
Key facts
Laila Tyabji died on August 8, 2026, aged 86.
She founded Dastkar in 1981 to revive handloom and craft traditions.
Dastkar’s network spans artisans in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.
The organisation has collaborated with over 5,000 artisans since its inception.
Tyabji was a recipient of the Padma Shri (2012) for her contributions to trade and industry.
Background
Context
- Dastkar was established in 1981 to promote India’s handloom and craft sectors.
- The organisation worked with artisans across states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.
- Tyabji’s approach combined market access, design innovation, and community-centric development.
- Her work gained prominence during India’s economic liberalisation in the 1990s and 2000s.
- She was awarded the Padma Shri in 2012 for her contributions to trade and industry.
Significance
Why it matters
- Cultural preservation: Tyabji’s efforts helped sustain India’s handloom traditions amid industrialisation.
- Economic empowerment: Dastkar’s initiatives provided livelihoods to thousands of artisans, particularly women.
- Policy influence: Her advocacy shaped government schemes supporting handloom cooperatives and rural crafts.