Firozabad is one of those special places renowned for a craft heritage that has survived through centuries and continues to thrive today. Though not far from the Taj Mahal, you probably won’t see it listed in many tour books. This is India’s glass-making capital where many still use simple tools and traditional techniques to create hand blown works of art. It is a fast growing city where modern factories blend with 16th century palaces but traditional handcraft remains deeply embedded in its identity. An estimated 90% of Firozabad’s population relies on the glass industry for their income. Gunjan and her team of 350 artisans are part of this heritage and have grown up watching previous generations master their skills. Despite the push to modernize and industrialize the work, they remain committed to using traditional and time-honored techniques. In a major break with the past, however, women are now taking the helm as leaders in this traditionally male-dominated industry. Together, we have proudly: sold 28,000 pieces of glassware, recycled 14 tons of glass, created 1000s of hours of fair wage artisan labor.
