Rural Women Day: A Celebration of Strength and Innovation

Team Bindi International, Josh and influencers.

Written By Swapna Sarita Mohanty

In the heart of rural India, amidst the rustic charm of Harmara village in Kishangarh, an extraordinary event unfolded on October 15, 2023 (International Rural Women's Day). Josh App, a video-sharing social networking service, owned by VerSe Innovation and Bindi International, together, showcased the remarkable stories of resilience, creativity, and determination exhibited by women from rural India.

Influencers at Digital Community School, Kishangarh

Spotlight on the Event

The event witnessed the convergence of influencers and innovators—Somya Shekhawat, Dipti Sharma, Deepak Yadav, and Govind Vishukarma—who ventured into the heart of rural Rajasthan. Their destination: the Digital Community School in Kishangarh and the Bindi International campus in Harmara village. Here, these influencers engaged in meaningful interactions with the women behind innovative initiatives such as digital education, solar training, and sanitary pad making, among others.

Capturing Inspirational Moments

The influencers, armed with their smartphones, brought the event to life on various social media platforms. Through live streams and engaging videos, they shed light on the ingenious techniques employed by these women. From preparing nutritious meals to mastering digital sewing, the women showcased their skills with pride and passion. These videos, now bound for millions of screens, promise to inspire change and foster support for these resilient communities.

Influencers Somya and Dipti understanding the process of sanitary pad making for our health worker Pooja.

The Collaborative Spirit

Rituparna Das, Josh community manager, expressed the platform's commitment to innovative collaboration. For Josh, it's more than just a partnership; it's a testament to the power of unity. Through their association with Bindi International, they aim to highlight the journey of rural women towards economic and social independence, proving that determination knows no boundaries.

Conclusion

In the tapestry of rural India, these women are weaving threads of change, hope, and progress. The collaboration between Josh App and Bindi International serves as a beacon of inspiration, guiding us towards a future where every woman, regardless of her background, is empowered to shape her destiny. As we celebrate International Rural Women's Day, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, support, and collaboration, ensuring that the stories of these remarkable women echo far and wide, inspiring generations to come. Join us in celebrating the strength and innovation of rural women. Together, let's make their voices heard.

Lighting Up Lives: Rita's Journey to Brighten Her Village

Rita and her children at home in Jhaaria village

Written By Swapna Sarita Mohanty

Meet Rita, a resilient 25-year-old woman from Saraigarh, Nagwa in Sonbhadra, a village where electricity was a luxury. Despite facing numerous challenges and frustration, Rita's determination led her to make a positive impact on her community. Let's dive into her inspiring journey of transformation and how she turned her hardships into opportunities.

A Difficult Start

At just 15 years old, Rita was married and moved to Jhaaria Urf Haribandh village, where electricity was non-existent. The absence of electricity made her life challenging, especially when cooking at night. Her longing for a brighter future for her family and community sparked an idea - she wanted electricity in her village.

The Journey of Empowerment

Rita during her training days at Harmara campus of Bindi International

Almost a decade later an opportunity in the form of solar training at Bindi International came across Rita, she decided to take training to bring about a change. She felt anxious about the unknown - whom to talk to and how people would respond. Despite the emotional turmoil of leaving her young children behind, Rita embarked on her journey of self-improvement and will to bring change in her community.

The Training Experience

Rita with her children while having an interaction about her journey

As five months solar training began at Bindi International Rita initially faced language barrier, however she overcame it and started her training with the help of master trainers. As she progressed, she learned how to use a mobile phone, boosting her confidence further. Additionally, the training covered essential topics like women's health, cleanliness, and personal hygiene. In Rita’s own words, today she is not only a solar engineer, but also got life lessons that have changed her life for the better. Among the skills Rita acquired during her training, learning to make circuits was one of the most challenging tasks. However, with determination and perseverance, she mastered the art over five months. Rita's newfound skills, knowledge, and confidence were about to become instrumental in transforming her village.

Lighting Up the Village

Rita pointing out towards the solar panel she installed post her training

After completing her training, Rita returned to her village with a purpose and completed solar electrification of 50 households that were otherwise in acute darkness. She connected with other women in the community, and together they discussed their needs. The villagers expressed their desire for torches to aid in farming during the dark hours and fans to combat the sweltering heat.

A Bright Business Idea

Rita saw an opportunity to fulfill the village's needs while also empowering herself and other women. She proposed the idea of creating and selling torches to meet the demand. The women brainstormed and crafted a business model that would enable them to earn a livelihood while improving the village's standard of living.

A Shining Example

Rita while sharing her future plans

As Rita balances her responsibilities as a mother and entrepreneur, she continues to take care of her children and returns from work to be with them. Her dedication and hard work inspire everyone around her, proving that with determination, even the darkest of situations can be transformed into shining success stories.

Rita's journey from frustration and darkness to empowerment and light is a testament to the potential that lies within every individual. Her determination to improve her life and her community serves as an inspiration for others to initiate change and uplift their surroundings.