It became apparent that the true gems of Indian handicrafts lay hidden in the narrow alleyways of small cities, inaccessible to the wider world. Lokla was born out of the desire to bridge this gap and bring forth the essence of traditional Indian handicrafts that were struggling to find their place in the market.
Founded during the summer of that transformative year, Lokla became more than a venture; it became a mission. With Kemi at the helm, a dedicated team of individuals joined forces, united by a singular focus - to revive the authenticity and significance of Indian traditional arts.
Our journey wasn't without its challenges. As a woman-led entrepreneurial venture, reintroducing traditional arts into the mainstream posed unique hurdles, especially within the Indian market. Finding the right talent, navigating complex processes, and investing time as a valuable resource were all part of the endeavor.
Yet, Lokla stood firm in its commitment to making a positive impact. The team traversed Indian cities and states, delving into forgotten markets, engaging with diverse communities, and seeking out the perfect artisans who shared our vision. The goal was not just to revive crafts but also to create a trend for slow, eco-friendly, and sustainable crafts and fashion.
Recognition wasn't handed to Lokla; it was earned through persistence and unwavering dedication. As the challenges persisted, so did our resolve. The day arrived in January 2022 when Kemi returned to India, and Lokla officially opened its doors for business.
However, this is not the end; it's just the beginning of our story. Lokla isn't merely a handicrafts platform or a collective; we prefer to think of ourselves as an idea. An idea that transcends time, lives on in the hearts and souls of those who believe in the beauty of tradition, craftsmanship, and the transformative power of ideas.
Join us as we continue to write the pages of Lokla's journey, a journey fueled by passion, creativity, and the unwavering belief that everything can perish, but an idea lives on. And we genuinely believe in the enduring power of Lokla's idea.