Every week, thousands of women across India travel from door to door collecting old clothes in exchange for household utensils. Most people know them as bartanwali or kapdewali, but few realize that they are part of the Waghri (Devipujak) community—a group that has quietly supported textile reuse for generations.
Instead of allowing unwanted clothes to end up in landfills, these collectors carefully sort the garments and send them through an informal reuse network. Good-quality clothes are sold in second-hand markets, repaired, or even upcycled into new products. This process makes affordable clothing accessible to many families while significantly reducing textile waste.
The Waghri community forms an important link in India’s circular economy. Their work not only protects the environment but also supports a network of transporters, tailors, market vendors, and small businesses that depend on the second-hand clothing trade.
Despite their valuable contribution, many members of the community face social stigma, limited recognition, and an uncertain livelihood. Their story reminds us that sustainability is not always driven by technology—it is often sustained by communities whose work has quietly benefited society for decades.
Every donated garment has the potential to become someone’s next favourite outfit instead of becoming waste. By choosing to reuse, donate, or redistribute clothing, we can all help build a more sustainable future while supporting the people who make this circular system possible.
Why this story matters
- Reduces textile waste
- Extends the life of clothing
- Supports community livelihoods
- Strengthens the circular economy
Source: Inspired by “How the Waghri Community, India’s Invisible Recyclers Help Keep Old Clothes Away From Landfills” (NDTV Special).