About Us
Our Story
Kaushalam, founded in 2012 by social entrepreneur and artist Mrinalika Jain Bhardwaj, is a studio dedicated to reviving and preserving India's traditional, regional, and folk arts. What began as a small initiative in a 600-square-foot studio in Jaipur has grown into a global name, known for its high-quality, hand-painted products that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India.
From the outset, Kaushalam has focused on bringing traditional art back into the spotlight by showcasing it on functional objects, transforming everyday items into intricate works of art. Our signature Artensils, a collection of hand-painted kettles, utensils, and home décor, have been embraced by art lovers, collectors, and designers worldwide.
Our Journey (2012 - 2024)
- 2012: Kaushalam was born with the goal of reviving India's fading traditional art forms. We started small, with Mrinalika's passion and vision driving the project forward. With limited resources and a shortage of skilled artisans, Kaushalam faced early challenges but turned them into opportunities by training local artisans and restoring their connection to indigenous crafts.
- 2015: The success of our hand-painted utility items, including kettles and other everyday products, marked a turning point. As demand grew, Kaushalam expanded its team, collaborating with artisans from regions such as Rajasthan, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Bihar. The studio became a hub for reviving and preserving various art forms like Madhubani, Pichhwai, and Phad.
- 2018: Kaushalam expanded its horizons beyond India, gaining international recognition. Our products began to be exported across the globe, and we established exclusive collaborations with designers to create custom-made products. This allowed us to meet the growing demand for unique, handcrafted items that blend traditional art with modern design sensibilities.
- 2021: With a focus on empowering rural women and artisans, Kaushalam became a leading source of livelihood for many, especially in rural India. We also opened our flagship retail store in Jaipur, which became a popular destination for both local and international customers. As our global presence grew, we formed exclusive partnerships and brand outlets to cater to our international clientele.
- 2024: Today, Kaushalam is a thriving studio known for its bespoke hand-painted products. We continue to collaborate with designers to create custom designs tailored to specific needs. From traditional art forms to contemporary designs, we provide unique, high-quality products that reflect India's cultural richness, available in homes and businesses around the world.
Our Products
At Kaushalam, we specialize in creating hand-painted Artensils—a unique range of functional art, including kettles, utensils, and home décor. Each piece is meticulously crafted, drawing inspiration from India's diverse cultural heritage. We offer both ready-made collections and custom-designed products, allowing our clients to bring their creative visions to life. Our focus is on maintaining the authenticity of traditional art while integrating modern design elements to create timeless pieces.
Our Impact
Kaushalam has become a symbol of empowerment and sustainability, creating meaningful employment for artisans in rural India. We prioritize hiring artisans, especially women, to provide them with dignified livelihoods and the opportunity to showcase their skills. Through our work, we have revived several dying art forms and ensured that the crafts of India's rural regions continue to thrive on a global stage.
About the Founder
Mrinalika Jain Bhardwaj, the founder of Kaushalam, is a social entrepreneur and passionate artist. A post-graduate in Fine Arts, she was mentored by the legendary Pandit Dwarka Prasad Sharma. After working as a freelance artist in New York and traveling across the world to explore various traditional art forms, Mrinalika returned to India with a vision to preserve and promote the country’s dying arts.
Her experiences living in various regions of India, including Ladakh, inspired her to bring artisans from remote areas together and give them a platform to showcase their work. Through Kaushalam, she has created a sustainable model that supports artisans while introducing India's rich artistic traditions to the global market.
Our Vision
At Kaushalam, our mission remains simple: to preserve India's rich heritage by promoting its traditional art forms and providing a platform for artisans to flourish. We aim to combine the beauty of India's past with the creativity of the present, creating art that resonates with people all around the world. From Jaipur to the global stage, Kaushalam continues to evolve and inspire, ensuring that the soul of India's regional arts remains alive for future generations.