Nestled within the ecologically sensitive zone of Bannerghatta, Bangalore, lies the village of Ragihalli. Here, agriculture forms the backbone of daily life, with residents cultivating mulberry and raising silkworks, sheep, and poultry. The land yields a variety of crops, including ragi, coconuts, and jackfruit, all nurtured by the rhythm of seasonal rains.

The women of Ragihalli also contribute to the local economy by running a bakery that produces delightful cookies and snacks, often incorporating ingredients from their own farms.

Recently, a new initiative by Buffalo Back Collective has enabled these women to create silver earrings from silkworm cocoons. Their handcrafted jewelry was showcased and sold at an event in the UK, marking an exciting step for the community.

The journey began with a training workshop at Buffalo Back Collective’s farm in Kariappan Doddi, where a skilled jewelry maker taught the women how to transform dyed silkworm cocoons into beautiful pieces. The vibrant colors used for dyeing were derived from natural plant sources, adding an eco-friendly touch to their creations.