Dakti Handicrafts, a small yet impactful pottery venture based in Shillong, celebrates the age-old craft of pottery through a sustainable and ethical business model. Named from the Khasi word Dakti, meaning “with your hands,” the company epitomises craftsmanship by creating products entirely from natural materials, skillfully fashioned by artisans from across the state. Founded by Rida Gatphoh and her team, Dakti aims to counter environmental degradation through a slow, ethical business approach. Their philosophy, as Gatphoh states, is that “Dakti is an initiative that cares about people, animals, and nature.”
Launched in 2010 with only three artisans, Dakti now collaborates with over 30 craftspeople across Meghalaya, revitalising the pottery tradition through hands-on training and support. Co-founder Rida Gatphoh, who initially taught design workshops, realised her passion for handicrafts and has since dedicated her career to advancing the craft. Today, her team runs a training centre in Ri-Bhoi district, offering workshops in bamboo craft and pottery to artisans from all over Meghalaya.
Running Dakti has its own challenges. Operating in remote parts of Meghalaya without robust infrastructure has posed logistical difficulties for the team. However, Gatphoh highlights the fulfilling nature of their work, despite the demands. Dakti operates independently, relying solely on its product sales and workshops to sustain itself. As more consumers grow conscious of environmental concerns, Gatphoh hopes to see more governmental and public support for ethical businesses like hers.
With a focus on quality over quantity, Dakti’s production is intentionally slow, which their loyal client base appreciates. “Our production process is very slow, and our clients respect that,” Gatphoh shares. Eschewing bulk production and large-scale social media outreach, Dakti markets its pieces through a private website. Although not on mainstream platforms, they see potential in social media like Facebook for expanding into new crafts and enhancing livelihoods across Meghalaya.
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As an entrepreneur driven by a passion for handicrafts, Gatphoh advises budding business owners to pursue what they truly love. “To create a sustainable business model, you have to love the work you do and be driven by it,” she emphasises. For Dakti, this passion fuels their journey as a small business with a big commitment to preserving Meghalaya’s cultural and natural heritage.
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