Some moments stay with you for a very long time.
For us, meeting the President of France was one of them.
It still feels surreal to even say it.
We were invited to showcase Ekatra at the French Embassy, and for us, this was never just about putting products on display. We wanted to bring a piece of our world there. Not just what we make, but how we make it, where it comes from, and the hands behind it.
So instead of only setting up our products, we created a small block printing experience.
We carried our wooden blocks, colours, fabric, and everything needed to help people understand the craft in a simple, hands-on way. We wanted them to do it, not just see it.
And then came the moment we will never forget.
The President of France and the First Lady stopped at our table.
We spoke to them about Ekatra, about being based in Kota, Rajasthan, and about the women we work with who create each piece with care. We shared how craft, for us, is not just about making products. It is about livelihood, skill, patience, and pride.
Then we invited them to try block printing.
And they did.
Watching them pick up the block, press it onto the fabric, and take part in the process was something really special. It was simple, but powerful. In that moment, it did not feel like just a formal meeting. It felt like a real exchange.
What made it so memorable was their openness. They did not just stop by the table and move on. They listened, they engaged, and they genuinely took interest in the craft.
That meant a lot to us.
Because this moment was bigger than just us.
It felt like a small craft practice from Rajasthan had found space in a global room. It felt like the work of our artisans had travelled far beyond where it began. It felt like a reminder that when you build something with honesty and care, it can reach places you never imagined.
As founders, moments like this bring a lot into perspective.
We come from Kota, a city not always seen as part of global design or craft conversations. But experiences like this remind us that good work creates its own path. You do not have to begin in a big city to build something meaningful. You just have to stay true to what you are creating.
For us, this was not only a proud moment for Ekatra, but also for every woman artisan who has been part of this journey. Their work, their skill, and their consistency are what brought us here.
And somewhere in that moment, while watching the President of France try block printing, we felt very clearly what craft really does.