Our Founders

Passionate and committed changemakers

Meet the women behind Gramshree, founded in 1995 to empower and support marginalised women living in the rural areas and urban slums of Gujarat.

Our Founder

Smt. Anandiben Patel

A visionary leader and ardent advocate of women’s empowerment, Smt. Anandiben Patel, who later became the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat, has been a critical force behind the establishment, sustenance and flourishing of Gramshree and Craftroots. It is because of her that thousands of women and artisans are positively impacting society.

Being a renowned teacher and a compassionate soul, Anandiben could resonate with the challenges women had to encounter in their day-to-day lives. She founded Gramshree with a vision to help and empower as many women as she could, and worked relentlessly to make that happen.

Founded Gramshree in 1995
Later became the first woman Chief Minister of Gujarat
A critical force behind Gramshree and Craftroots

Our Founder

Smt. Anarben Patel

With extensive experience in serving communities across the country and empowering artisans (especially women), Smt. Anarben Patel is one of our country’s most renowned social entrepreneurs. Anarben has been a pillar to many organisations and NGOs, including Craftroots and Gramshree, with impeccable philanthropic achievements.

It is due to her vision and diligence that Gramshree and Craftroots could impact thousands of lives. While impacting people from all walks of life, her contribution to promoting handicraft is commendable.

Founded Gramshree in 1995 together with Smt. Anandiben Patel
A pillar to many organisations and NGOs, including Craftroots and Gramshree
A committed promoter of handicraft and its artisans

A large group of women seated together, shown in a teal-tinted photo

Founded in 1995

Our Beginning

How Gramshree began

Gramshree was founded in 1995 by Smt. Anandiben Patel together with prominent social entrepreneur Smt. Anarben Patel, to empower and support marginalised women living in the rural areas and urban slums of Gujarat through income-generation activities.