Raipur – In a heartwarming display of creativity and resilience, around 20 young men and women with disabilities in Chhattisgarh’s Mahasamund district, located approximately 80km from Raipur, came together to craft Rakhi bracelets during the festive season of Raksha Bandhan.
Despite facing challenges such as intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, and hearing impairment, these individuals have dedicated themselves to a special initiative called the Gharaunda Scheme. Operating from their residential shelter home, they’ve spent the past few weeks crafting Rakhis with a touch of indigenous craftsmanship, bringing a sense of pride to their work.
The meticulously designed Rakhis, created under the Gharaunda Scheme, not only serve an aesthetic purpose but are also incredibly pocket-friendly. The initiative focuses on providing lifelong institutional support to individuals above the age of 18 with mental disabilities, guiding them towards vocational activities that enhance their skills and self-esteem.
With products priced affordably ranging from ₹5 to ₹100, these handmade Rakhis have garnered popularity among the residents of Mahasamund city. Over 2,500 Rakhis have been meticulously crafted and put up for sale. Rekha Dhivar, 28, and Rani Sahu, 19, who are among the talented artisans despite their mental disabilities, expressed their joy when Chief Minister Bhupesh and District Collector Prabhat Malik visited them, with the artisans personally tying Rakhis on their wrists.
These artisans undergo specialized training tailored to their unique abilities, guided by experts who help them grasp skills such as color identification, intricate knotting, thread attachment, finger dexterity, and precise cutting with scissors, all of which contribute to the exquisite Rakhi-making process.
Sangeeta Singh, Deputy Director of the Social Welfare Department in Mahasamund, highlighted the initiative’s role in nurturing social connections and self-esteem among the differently-abled individuals. The effort not only generates a modest income but also boosts the confidence and spirits of these artisans, as shared by Asha Sahu, the head of the center. Visitors are often left amazed as they witness raw materials transform into a wide variety of beautifully crafted Rakhis.
In a changing trend, people are increasingly opting for elegant yet simple Rakhis. The local, captivating Rakhis handcrafted by these exceptional artisans have become a popular choice among girls and women, thanks to their unique charm and meaningful essence.
The Gharaunda Scheme’s meticulously designed Rakhis, a result of these artisans’ dedication, not only contribute to their livelihoods but also promote inclusivity and empowerment. With prices ranging from ₹5 to ₹100, these handmade treasures have captured the hearts of many in Mahasamund city, becoming a symbol of celebration, creativity, and unity.
Reference:
