Sumitra Kulung

Sumitra’s connection with Allo began long before she started working with it herself. In her community, the craft was a familiar part of daily life, and watching others work with Himalayan nettle sparked an appreciation for the skills involved.As the years passed, she found her own place within this tradition, turning something she had known since childhood into a valuable source of income. Today, her work helps provide for her family while giving her the opportunity to carry forward a practice that has shaped generations of her community.

Sumitra Kulung grew up surrounded by the tradition of weaving Allo, also known as Himalayan nettle. From an early age, she watched skilled artisans in her community transform the fibre into handcrafted textiles, gradually developing an interest in the craft herself.

What began as a familiar part of her childhood eventually became an important part of her livelihood. As she grew older, Sumitra came to understand the dedication and experience required to master traditional weaving. Today, she works with Allo to support her family while continuing a craft deeply connected to her community and its heritage.

"“A tradition survives when the hands that carry it can also build a life from it.”"

— Sumitra Kulung