Sonal Mehta, a social designer and activist, spearheads the Eklavya foundation in Gujarat which focuses on empowering marginalised communities—notably the Kotwalias for whom making bamboo products is the prime occupation. For over two decades, she's pioneered sustainable livelihood options, particularly through the creative utilisation of bamboo. Recognising the ecological impact of the excessive deforestation of teak trees in the region, Mehta’s team works to steer people’s attention towards bamboo-based products instead. She established a training centre in 2009 to foster artisanal skills and develop off-beat designs, and ultimately creating marketable goods for the interior and construction sectors. Mehta developed the eco-conscious Dang Box, through meticulous prototyping and material experimentation, in collaboration with Ali Akbar, a designer. They advocate for sustainable design practices, and the recycled teak wood lids are a case in point.
An artisan who crafted the Dang Box talks about the uses of bamboo.
Sonal Mehta works with marginalised communities in Gujarat, particularly the Kotwalia bamboo workers of Dang, empowering them with modern bamboo utilisation techniques.