Henna, is an art that creates various impressions. In the vibrant culture of Indian festivals, mehendi holds a significant place. Karwa Chauth is one such festi-val that is an expression of mutual love, commitment and care where women/girls enjoy applying mehendi as part of the celebration.
During the festive season, the skilled girls from the NGO, Aprajita Sewa Project, with their artistic skills in making intricate patterns with mehendi, earn money to support their families. Thus, mehendi has become a source of empowerment and livelihood for them. The GKIIWA Karvachauth mela provides many like them, the platform to use their skill to adorn the hands of our lady residents and help them make a decent earning at the end of the day.
Shalu, who had come for the second time, expressed her views-
“My experience was better than last year. I got an opportunity to work and am thankful to all for helping and supporting me. I’ve always loved applying mehendi, and this mela helped me in getting an impressive earning”
Kavita, reflected on how the work gave her both income and confidence.
“I was too busy with my work; I did not notice anything but managed to hear some melodious songs playing in the background. My experience here was good. It was a very wonderful opportunity for us. I am thankful for it.”
Sadaf was very excited about her first experience in this mela.
“I was initially afraid and felt nervous but soon gained confidence. I had never stayed out of home for so long but seeing the smiles on women’s faces, I felt proud that my art while helping me financially was making couples happy.”
Deepa enjoyed the financial benefits while showcasing her skills in this art.
“I was thrilled to see ladies waiting for their turn to get mehendi applied by me. It has not only helped me to earn a substantial amount but also to interact and learn.”
While celebrating rich Indian culture and traditions, these girls are breaking barriers by coming out and working in a safe environment, using their creativity to uplift themselves and bringing smiles to many families while earning and supporting their own families—proving that tradition can empower and sustain in more ways than one.
NGO Aparajit Sewa mehendi artists are supported by Neeraj Gupta, an S block GK2 resident and Vidhi Gopal, an Art of Living Volunteer.
