Exploring the Digital Spaces of Women Artisans in Kashida Crafts: Case Stories From Thar Desert of Western Rajasthan.

This article examines the experiences, challenges, and opportunities faced by women artisans practicing Kashida hand embroidery in the Thar Desert region of Western Rajasthan, India, particularly in relation to adopting digital technologies. Through qualitative case studies of ten women artisans, the research highlights issues such as financial constraints, limited digital literacy, and generational gaps that hinder their access to and use of digital platforms like Instagram and YouTube for marketing and skill development. Local social entrepreneurs and organizations such as Urmul and Rangsutra play a pivotal role in empowering these women by providing training, market linkages, and support for digital adoption, thereby fostering economic independence and cultural heritage preservation. The study underscores the importance of targeted digital education and affordable access to technology to bridge the digital divide, enabling artisans to sustain their traditional craft while engaging with modern markets and digital ecosystems.