As families across the United States gather over Memorial Day weekend to honor those who have served in the armed forces, the holiday offers a moment to reflect on the values that endure across generations: service, resilience, and a commitment to building a better future. These same values are at the heart of our work.
For more than eight decades, the Somaiya Trust has invested in education, healthcare, and community development, creating opportunities for individuals to grow with dignity and purpose. One of its most distinctive initiatives is Somaiya Kala Vidya, a design school in Kachchh, Gujarat, dedicated to preserving traditional craft while helping artisans build sustainable livelihoods.
Where Heritage Meets Design
Kachchh, in western India, is home to some of the world’s most intricate textile traditions, including embroidery, weaving, and natural dyeing. These crafts have been passed down through generations, yet many artisans have historically lacked access to formal design education and business skills.
Somaiya Kala Vidya was established to bridge that gap. The school offers artisans a transformative education that combines traditional craft knowledge with contemporary design, entrepreneurship, and market strategy. Graduates emerge as artisan-designers — creative entrepreneurs who are able to honour their heritage while adapting their work for global audiences.
This vision has been championed by Amrita Somaiya, whose leadership has helped shape the institution into a globally recognised model for craft-based education and community empowerment.
Design Craft: Taking Artisan Creativity to the World
A powerful extension of this work is Design Craft, the retail and outreach platform of Somaiya Kala Vidya.
Through Design Craft, artisan-designers bring their work to wider audiences, translating centuries-old techniques into contemporary products for today’s markets. The platform ensures that artisans retain ownership of their creativity while connecting directly with customers who value authenticity, craftsmanship, and meaningful design.
Each purchase supports an artisan’s journey toward financial independence and creative confidence. In 2025, during the Alumni Meets in Michigan, South California and Bay Area, Samir Somaiya thanked active Alumni Champions for their support through beautifully hand-woven artisan strolls from India.
Recognition Beyond India
The impact of Somaiya Kala Vidya has attracted attention far beyond Kachchh. The school’s innovative approach has been featured by Vogue India, which described its work as being “in the business of forging confidence.” For many graduates, the programme has opened doors to financial independence, professional recognition, and renewed pride in their cultural identity.
Alumni Spotlight: Innovation in Advanced Manufacturing
Brual Shah, Co-Founder and CTO of GrayMatter Robotics in California, is helping shape the future of advanced manufacturing through AI-powered robotics designed for complex industrial environments. A researcher and entrepreneur with deep expertise in robotics and machine learning, Brual has led the development of intelligent robotic systems used in applications ranging from precision manufacturing to industrial surface treatment.
Recently, GrayMatter Robotics announced a partnership with Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), the largest military shipbuilder in the United States, to explore the use of Physical AI and autonomous manufacturing technologies in shipbuilding operations. The collaboration reflects a growing focus on next-generation manufacturing systems that enhance productivity, safety, and operational efficiency.
During the Somaiya Alumni Meets in Southern California in November 2025, Brual hosted alumni and Foundation leadership at GrayMatter Robotics’ innovation facility, offering a firsthand look at the company’s pioneering work in robotics and AI-driven manufacturing. He is also serving on the Board of Studies for Engineering education at Somaiya. His journey reflects the global impact of Somaiya alumni — combining technical excellence, entrepreneurship, and innovation to solve real-world challenges.
A Legacy of Service
Memorial Day reminds us that the most meaningful legacies are built through service to others. This Memorial Day, as we remember those who served, we also celebrate the many ways individuals and institutions strengthen communities and create opportunities for others.
Learn more about our work and initiatives: https://somaiyafoundation.org/en
Read More :
Where Somaiya Meets the World: Alumni, Ideas and Innovation Across the United States
Somaiya Alumni USA Reunion – Three Cities. Two Coasts. One Community. Infinite Connections.
Somaiya Alumni Boston Reunion – A Night of Ideas & New Beginnings
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