INTRODUCTION:
‘Hands of Shakti’ is a unique initiative that empowers and teaches underprivileged women how to
transform discarded materials into valuable, handcrafted items. These materials often come from the left over materials from local tailors or are found in their surroundings. The initiative is all about creating simple embellishments or decorative items such as flowers made from cloth, beaded tassels, found or bought buttons, which then may be added aesthetically to plain baskets, jute bags,keychains and other items and turning them into exquisite pieces of art thus making it sell at a higher value. Many of these women are not allowed a regular job by their families and prefer to work from home and others who already work during the day don't mind the additional income. So they are trained and then there are weekly meetings where they can collect money for the number of flowers made etc. They are paid per piece so the more they make the more they get.
For these women, crafting with scrap materials is not just a way to make money; it's a joyful, creative outlet that allows them to express themselves. It's a celebration of their innate talents and creativity. Through their work, they stitch not just flowers but thread but their own stories and dreams into every piece.
The inspiration behind my initiative ‘Hands of Shakti’ can be best explained by writing something first about my elder sister Aishanie. Born with Down Syndrome Aishanie has taught me that stereotypes don't exist. Despite having had an open heart surgery at the age of 6 months and some recurring health issues Aishanie exudes confidence, energy, wit, sense of humor, laughter and love. If there is one quality which stands out it is how being inclusive comes so naturally to her. She definitely has a way with people. It is then no wonder that when her company ‘Style Queen World’ was created that all people who have assisted her or my mother on her journey wanted to be a part of it. These lady helpers were all either underprivileged or ones from lower income groups. Seemingly ordinary on the face of it, I observed over the many years that in fact they were all extraordinary. Their determination, strength, resilience and grit to do the best they can, despite a gloomy situation at home was inspiring and commendable.
HANDS OF SHAKTI - HOW IT ALL BEGAN:
Aishanie was almost in class twelve and I noticed a sense of concern in my mothers voice as she discussed the possibilities that lie ahead for her after she graduates. These discussions generally with my parents and I were very intense. Living in India, the prospects of further studies for a child with Down Syndrome are very few and almost negligible. In some aspects my sister still needs assistance and is not completely independent making this a difficult option. After many discussions we narrowed down on starting a creative activity for her where less skill was required in other words something which starts off as easy but which has the potential for the further enhancement of skills. I proposed that this must also be a business of some sort to ensure a continuing income for my sister and a set up where every morning she has a place to go to complete certain tasks. After all, isn't the best quality of life about a sense of purpose and fulfillment?
A few creative ideas were introduced to my sister and she choose the idea to decorate simple cotton tote bags by pasting the various decorative items with fabric glue. There is plenty of excitement at this prospect including that of being a business woman! Aishanie prances around and declares she’s going to be rich! As my mother and her started off this work after her school hours at home, we noticed that everyone who would see what they were doing wanted to be a part of it! From her assistant teacher at school, my mother’s studio assistant, the cook, the house cleaner…all started to ask if they could join this creative activity. Most of these women fall into the economically poor category or lower income group and have never had a chance or the luxury to create objects of beauty.
We start off by purchasing these hand made decorative flowers, beads etc. These are pasted on ready made bags to add value. As I saw everyone getting involved in this activity I made some observations. In a house where the doors are always open and a diverse array of women helpers come and go, each with her own unique story, facing distinct challenges, they all have something in common. An unwavering determination to make their lives better is the commonality between them.
I observed that if a few women could do this for the love of creativity and earning a little more, why can't I start something which will impact more women. Those who are perhaps much worse off than the ones who worked in my house. These are unskilled, uneducated women at the mercy of the patriarchal system. Financially dependent on their families sometimes they are not given permission to work and thus remain bound and powerless to people who may not even be kind to them. However their complete dedication and hardwork these women are willing to put in for their families is Then there are others who work but a very common scenario is that the husband doesnt work or contribute financially in any way. There would be millions of such women… could i help them in some way? Could i create something by which they could earn even while they stay at home as an extra source of income? This is the beginning of how these amazing women can use "Hands of Shakti" to find their voice, their strength, and a fulfilling means to support themselves.
Life can be unrelenting, and it often challenges us in ways we cannot predict. The women who find their way to "Hands of Shakti '' come from the most difficult backgrounds, each carrying her own set of trials and tribulations. Yet, amidst the chaos of life, they discovered a common bond - the desire to take control of their destinies and create beauty from the ordinary.
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