Inspiring Rise of Bamboo Artisan Rupali Sarkar Marks a Positive Turn for Women Entrepreneurs in Tripura

Agartala, May 29, 2025 – In the quiet village of Dakshin Charilam (Madhyapara) in Tripura’s Sepahijala district, a remarkable transformation has taken place. Rupali Sarkar, a bamboo artisan by trade, has risen to prominence as an inspiring figure for women entrepreneurs across the region. Her journey from humble beginnings to leading a thriving enterprise is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community support.

With training and technology support provided by ‘Arkaneer’ under the Government of India’s Sunil Project, Rupali has turned traditional bamboo ornament-making into a flourishing business. Funded by the Department of Science and Technology and jointly implemented by the NB Institute for Rural Technology, Arkaneer, and Visva Bharati University, Kolkata, the initiative aims to uplift rural talent through sustainable innovation.

From Modest Beginnings to Business Success: A Bamboo Artisan’s Journey

Rupali’s path to success began with small-scale efforts. “Initially, sales were low, but I didn’t give up,” she shared. Her perseverance led her to participate in local and state-level fairs, where she showcased her bamboo ornaments. As the visibility of her work grew, so did customer interest and sales, eventually giving rise to Rupali Enterprise.

As a seasoned bamboo artisan, she now leads a registered business and has become a familiar face at cultural exhibitions in Nandannagar, Agartala. “The response from people has been overwhelming. It gave me the confidence to dream bigger,” she said.

Support from Arkaneer and the Sunil Project Empowers Bamboo Artisan

The support Rupali received played a pivotal role in her journey. From specialized tool kits to marketing mentorship and entrepreneurial training, Arkaneer’s contribution under the Sunil Project helped her refine her craft and scale her business.

The project’s integrated approach gave her not only the technical know-how but also the business acumen needed to navigate the competitive handicrafts market. “I am deeply grateful to every official of the Sunil Project and my industrial friend Arkaneer,” she noted.

Bamboo Artisan Inspires Other Women Through Self-Help Groups

Today, Rupali is more than just a successful bamboo artisan—she is a community leader. Leveraging her success, she has helped bring together other trained women in the area to form Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These groups focus on skill development, economic collaboration, and mutual empowerment.

“I’m happy that my journey has encouraged other women in my area to step forward. It’s fulfilling to walk this path together,” she said with pride. Her grassroots efforts have turned her into a local role model, making her story a source of hope and motivation.

Recognition for a Bamboo Artisan Changing Lives

Rupali’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored with the Best Woman Award by the Tripura Women’s Commission and recognized by the Kalyani Dey Foundation for her efforts in community building and entrepreneurship.

Despite her growing accolades, Rupali remains grounded. “My goal now is not just to become successful, but a crorepati,” she said with a smile that reflects both ambition and gratitude.

Arkaneer Applauds the Bamboo Artisan’s Role in Rural Innovation

The Arkaneer team has expressed immense pride in Rupali’s achievements. According to the organization, she symbolizes the spirit of grassroots innovation, sustainability, and empowerment. “She embodies the change we aim to create through the Sunil Project—real, tangible progress through skill-based livelihoods,” said a spokesperson.

Rupali’s story highlights how traditional craftsmanship, when combined with modern tools and guidance, can become a powerful engine for social and economic development. As a bamboo artisan, she is not only preserving cultural heritage but also shaping a brighter future for women entrepreneurs in rural India.

Conclusion

The remarkable rise of Rupali Sarkar from a village bamboo artisan to an entrepreneurial icon showcases the untapped potential within India’s rural landscape. Her success story reinforces the importance of inclusive development models that empower individuals through education, technology, and community engagement. With women like Rupali leading the way, the future of grassroots innovation in Tripura looks promising.