Budhu Bala’s journey as a dedicated artisan at the Hajiganj Handicrafts Basket Unit is a powerful story of empowerment and the transformative impact of fair trade employment. Coming from a background of financial hardship, Budhu Bala faced countless challenges early in life. However, she remained determined to find stability and dignity in her work, and found exactly that through her involvement with Hajiganj Handicrafts Basket Unit.

Finding Hope at Hajiganj Handicrafts Basket Unit

Located in one of the underdeveloped villages of the Nilphamari district, Hajiganj Handicrafts Basket Unit was established in 1999 by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) with the aim of creating sustainable livelihoods for women. The women artisans at Hajiganj weave beautiful, functional baskets using kaisa grass, palm leaves, and recycled fabrics, creating a variety of shapes, sizes, and color combinations. In recent years, their colorful basket hampers have gained popularity in the US and European markets, bringing global appreciation to rural Bangladeshi craftsmanship.

For more than 25 years, Budhu Bala has been part of this thriving production unit. She began as a casual worker and, through her dedication and consistent work ethic, was promoted to permanent status after four years. “I am lucky to be a part of Prokritee,” she often says with pride. “They helped me during the most difficult times in my life.”

Balancing Work and Motherhood with Dignity

Before joining Hajiganj, Budhu Bala had one daughter. During her time with the unit, she gave birth to two more children. As part of Prokritee’s policies to ensure the well-being of their artisans, she received maternity leave and medical allowances for each pregnancy. Later, when it came time for her daughters’ weddings, she received financial support from the organization—another gesture that reaffirmed her sense of belonging and care within the Prokritee family.

“Prokritee has been like a parent to me,” Budhu Bala says. “I will always be grateful for the way they stood beside me and my family.”

Today, Budhu Bala continues to weave baskets and support her family, including her grandchildren, through her income. Her story is a shining example of what’s possible when artisan women are given not just employment, but also dignity, training, and long-term support. “Even now, I’m working and earning. I feel proud that I can support my family with my own hands,” she says.

A Life of Fulfillment and Gratitude

She is just one of many skilled and resilient artisans who work at the Hajiganj Handicrafts Basket Unit. Behind every woven basket is a story like Budhu Bala’s—a story of hard work, hope, and transformation. These artisans are not only preserving traditional skills but also contributing to global markets with sustainable, handmade products.

Budhu Bala’s narrative speaks to the values of fair trade and ethical production—proving that with the right support, rural women in Bangladesh can thrive and lead fulfilled lives. She found a community that respected her, a workplace that protected her rights, and a career that helped her grow. Through the support of organizations like Prokritee and units like Hajiganj, artisans across the country are empowered to build better futures for themselves and their families.

When customers choose to purchase handcrafted baskets from Hajiganj, they are not just buying a product—they are supporting women like Budhu Bala, who have poured their skill and strength into every creation. These products are more than just beautiful—they represent hope, resilience, and the ongoing journey of rural artisans toward a brighter future.