SATV Mar. 9, Kathmandu: Handmade crafts have become increasingly popular among the younger generation, with various items now easily accessible and purchasable online.
Inspired by what they saw on the internet, two college students, Smriti Gurung and Chasum Rai, started creating and selling handmade thread flowers through online platforms. “Since these crafts are trending, we decided to learn the skill ourselves and turn it into a business,” they shared.
On the occasion of the 115th International Women's Day, Jhuna's Fitness & Wellness in Dharan-19 organised a “Market March” event. For the first time, Smriti and Chasum displayed their creations at the event.
“Handmade crafts are in high demand these days, so we have been balancing our studies with this business,” Smriti said. Along with flowers, they also create and sell other handmade items online. Their range includes bouquets, single roses and various decorative flowers.
Similarly, Puja Tamang from Dharan and Anusa Magar from Damak participated in the ‘Market March’ for the second time. Encouraged by their successful sales last year, they returned this year with more handmade products. “We met at college and since both of us enjoyed creating thread-based crafts from a young age, we decided to showcase our work online,” Puja said.
Anusa Magar added that their shared passion led them to open a small shop in Dharan-19. “We now make items like hairbands, keychains, bags and ladies' vests -- all handmade and available for custom orders,” she said. Anusa expressed her satisfaction with their earnings so far and is committed to continuing the venture.
The ‘Market March’ also featured other female entrepreneurs, such as Manita Ghimire, who showcased homemade herbal soaps made from locally available plants. “I sell my products both online and at events like this,” Manita shared.
Similarly, Sangita Rai, who runs a clothing store, participated in the fair.
The ‘Market March’ encouraged women to engage in creative income-generating activities. According to Jhuna Rai, the event organiser and fitness trainer, the fair featured 32 stalls displaying handicrafts, ready-made items, plants, traditional foods and Korean dishes.
Most stalls were managed by female entrepreneurs showcasing their diverse range of products, including homemade soap, handicrafts, clothing, jewelry and agricultural tools.
