In the quiet village of Sittlingi, Tamil Nadu, the women of Porgai have been weaving stories of empowerment through the intricate art of Lambadi hand embroidery. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Lalitha Regi, this women-led artisanal society, established in 2006, has not only preserved a traditional craft but has also helped the women rediscover their pride and dignity—Porgai, as it is called in Lambadi.

For the first time, these artisans are stepping beyond India’s borders to share their creations with the world. Their journey takes them to IOTA’24 in Perth, Australia, from 16th to 25th August, where their works, curated by the talented Anshu Arora, will be showcased to an international audience.

This remarkable opportunity is a direct outcome of the Artist Residency project run in 2023 at Sittilingi enabled by a grant from Towards Equal Foundation (TEF). During this project, the women of Porgai created stunning hand-embroidered tapestries, a process that was as much about personal growth as it was about artistic expression. The days spent together embroidering, singing, and collaborating ignited a newfound awareness of their creative potential, leaving a lasting impact on all involved.

Their journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of art and craft, not only as a means of preserving cultural heritage but also as a catalyst for empowerment and connection