SHG Members Illuminate Festive Spirit with Handcrafted Diyas & Kalashs in ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ Initiative

BY ARSHEED BHAT

In a heartwarming display of community collaboration and craftsmanship, the Self-Help Group (SHG) members of Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) in Pulwama have taken up the task of creating beautifully handcrafted Diyas and Kalashs for the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” initiative. SHG Members Illuminate Festive Spirit with Handcrafted Diyas & Kalashs in ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ Initiative

The “Meri Mati Mera Desh ” (My Clay, My Country) campaign, launched by the local administration, as it being a nationwide and people led “Jan Bhagidari ” initiative to commemorate 75 years of India’s independence. This also lends an opportunity for SHG women to promote traditional art forms and encourage the use of eco-friendly and indigenous products. Under this initiative, the SHG members have come together to showcase their talent and contribute to the community in a meaningful way.

The SHG members, consisting of talented artisans from different rural areas of Pulwama district, have been meticulously crafting Diyas and Kalashs using locally sourced clay and natural colors. Their skillful hands and creative minds have brought forth an exquisite range of hand-painted designs, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms. Parveena Akhter, a dedicated member of the JKRLM SHG, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “We are immensely proud to be a part of ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ campaign. This platform has given us an opportunity to showcase our traditional craftsmanship to a broader audience. By creating these Diyas and Kalashs, we are also preserving our cultural roots while promoting sustainability.”

The initiative not only empowers the rural artisans economically but also encourages them to revive and pass down their traditional skills to the younger generation. Many of the SHG members have been crafting these beautiful clay artifacts for generations, and the campaign has provided them with a platform to celebrate and share their expertise with others.

Mr. Mohsin Ahmed, a local art enthusiast, who visited the SHG craftswomen preparing Diyas and Kalashs, commented, “The level of craftsmanship displayed here is truly impressive. These handcrafted Diyas and Kalashs not only add charm to our festivities but also make a significant environmental impact as these are biodegradable. It’s heartening to see our rural artisans getting the recognition they deserve.”

The “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign has garnered immense support from the local community and has already gained popularity across the district. The beautifully designed Diyas and Kalashs are in high demand as they perfectly blend traditional aesthetics with environmental consciousness.

With this campaign, the JKRLM and the SHG members of Pulwama have set a remarkable example of community-led sustainable development and cultural preservation. Their efforts remind us that empowering rural artisans not only enhances their livelihoods but also enriches the cultural fabric of the entire nation.

As the “Meri Mati Mera Desh” campaign continues, it serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of unity, creativity, and the spirit of togetherness, which can light up the lives of everyone involved, just like the beautiful Diyas adorning countless homes this festive season.