In this proposed research, the role of women crafters in sustaining and developing the traditions of Sujni embroidery, Khatwa, and Madhubani painting in the state of Bihar will be examined through the application of feminist and material perspectives on craft traditions. Based on feminist approaches towards material culture and craft traditions, this proposed work seeks to shed light on the manner in which sociocultural identities are performed and encoded in crafts, and in what way empowerment is etched in the artifacts that represent such traditions. These art traditions are viewed as vital linkages of women in their social contexts in terms of performing social interactions, social memory, and autonomy.

There is evidence in this study that female craftspeople are agents of innovation in cultures in that they reconfigure ancestral forms of crafts through design alteration, joint creation, and exposure to markets, as a means of integrating cultural authenticity and viability. Several forms of qualitative methods were utilized in this work, including ethnographic fieldwork that combined participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Some of the aims of this work included the mapping of skill and innovation in craftsmanship.

Findings reveal that Sujni, Khatwa, and Madhubani are living traditions that provide women social interactions and also preserve their social memory in conditions of relative adaptability that continue to change in terms of socio-economic factors. In this context, women are recognized as agents of change who are transforming the traditions in innovative ways and at the same time responding to their socio-economic needs in finding means of earning their livelihoods.

The findings and conclusions of this study have the potential to contribute to the development of policies and joint designs towards improving women's role in the heritage sectors, taking into account the principles of ethical production. Together, the conclusions of this and other similar studies contribute to the development of joint designs and policies that have the potential to empower women, promote authenticity, and build the principles of social justice in the heritage sectors..