In a bid to empower women, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has launched the state's first craft-based café, "Handloom Café," in Pranpur. This small village, located just 4 kilometres from the well-known tourist spot Chanderi in Ashoknagar district, is now home to this pioneering café entirely run by women.
Bidisha Mukherjee, the Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board, recently visited the café to encourage and support the women operating it. She emphasised that the Handloom Café is not just a business venture; it's a key initiative for empowering women. From the security staff and chefs to the receptionists and cashiers, every role at the café is filled by women specially trained at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) in Bhopal. The women working here have joined a registered group known as 'Sakhi Saheli Lok Kalyan Sangh' to manage the cafe.
Mukherjee highlighted that this project isn’t just about creating jobs. It's about equipping women with valuable skills, building their confidence, and providing financial independence to improve their overall quality of life. On top of that, it aligns with the state’s goal to promote a safe and inclusive environment for women travellers.
Visitors to the Handloom Café will not only enjoy delicious food but also experience a unique blend of culture and craftsmanship, all while supporting a powerful initiative that champions women’s empowerment in Madhya Pradesh.
Pranpur is known for its rich handloom heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Renowned for its Chanderi sarees, Pranpur is a hub for artisans who have honed their weaving skills over generations. Visitors can explore local workshops to witness the meticulous weaving process, interact with skilled weavers, and even purchase exquisite handmade textiles. The village also offers a glimpse into rural life, with its simple mud houses, scenic landscapes, and culture. It is a must-visit for those interested in India's artisan heritage and slow tourism.
Pranpur, located on a hill southwest of the Betwa River in Madhya Pradesh, is easily accessible from various points. It lies 227 km from Bhopal and 65 km from Ashok Nagar. By road, NH 19 and NH 20 merge at Chanderi, just 3 km away, with frequent bus services connecting it to major cities. The nearest airports are Bhopal (225 km), Gwalior (230 km), and Khajuraho (232 km). For train travel, Lalitpur station, 35 km away, is on the Delhi-Mumbai-Chennai route, while Mungawali (42 km) and Jhansi (110 km) are also nearby railway stations.