Afroza Khatun (Papiya Begum), a vastly experienced Kantha artist, is a resident of Nanoor village in Birbhum and has been working with the cra form for the last 25 years. Married early, Papiya has gradually emerged from being a mere embroidery artist to being a leader and now provides livelihood to 50 women who work under her. She has also taken up the responsibility of training the girls of her locality, in the finesse of the cra . Papiya has participated in fairs and exhibitions in Kolkata and other cities around India. She has also demonstrated and showcased her cra in Germany and the UK.