The Story of Smt. Lalita Devi Jain (Madhu Jain)
Founder of Madhushree | Social Entrepreneur | Pioneer in Handloom Revival
At the heart of Madhushree lies the inspiring journey of Smt. Lalita Devi Jain, lovingly known as Madhu Jain—a visionary entrepreneur, a compassionate leader, and a torchbearer of Assam’s rich weaving heritage.
Born into a business family in Mankachar, a quiet town on the Assam-Bangladesh-Meghalaya border, Madhu Jain was deeply rooted in values of tradition, resilience, and community. After completing her graduation, she married Sri Shanti Kumar Jain, a mechanical engineer, and together they chose a humble life in Rajapara, a rural village near Palasbari, about 50 km from Guwahati.
A Vision Woven with Purpose
Weaving is not just a craft in Assam—it’s a cultural tradition, a rite of passage for women. Inspired by this legacy, Madhu Jain envisioned a mission: To empower rural and tribal women by reviving traditional Assamese handloom weaving.
She saw potential in the Mekhla Chadar, Assam’s iconic ethnic attire crafted from Muga and silk, and realized this could become a source of livelihood for the women in her village. Starting with just five looms, she began training widows, orphans, and unemployed girls, giving them skills, income, and dignity.
Madhushree: Where Tradition Meets Innovation
Today, Madhushree stands as a symbol of cultural pride and women’s empowerment. With over 50 looms and nearly 200 women artisans, the Rajapara centre is a vibrant hub of creativity and craftsmanship. Every piece produced is a seamless blend of ethnic artistry and modern aesthetics—a tribute to Madhu Jain’s bold, intuitive design sense, despite having no formal training in fashion or textiles.
The Madhushree design and production centre has drawn admiration from across the country. Ministers, bureaucrats, and dignitaries have visited to witness the extraordinary community-led transformation.
Recognitions & Awards
Madhu Jain’s work has earned national and international acclaim:
FICCI-FLO (2009) – Honoured among India’s Top 25 Women Entrepreneurs
National Award by Ministry of MSME (2008) – Special Recognition for Outstanding Performance
Nominated for Businessworld–FICCI–SEDF CSR Award (2009)
International Women Entrepreneur Challenge Award – Cape Town Chamber of Commerce, South Africa
Our Legacy
At Madhushree, we don’t just weave fabric—we weave stories, cultures, and futures. What began as a humble effort by a woman with a dream has blossomed into a movement that uplifts hundreds and inspires thousands. Join us in celebrating a legacy born from compassion, woven with tradition, and designed for empowerment.