Women Changemaker Series

Written By Swapna Sarita Mohanty

Within the training hall's hallowed walls, a symphony of strength unfolds as Asha's voice resonates with the powerful notes of her regional song. Yet, amidst her vocal prowess, Asha is a silent observer, absorbing the lessons of the solar master trainer. Little did I know, when I first spoke to her during her days as a trainee at Bindi International in 2023, that behind her quiet demeanor lay a story capable of touching hearts and evoking deep emotions.

Man Behind the Lens: Sanjay Malakar

In this blog I have delved into the intricacies of Asha's life. Unveiling the layers of her personal tragedy and the profound silence she bore, we discover the tale of a woman who, much like the mythical phoenix, rose from the ashes of adversity.

‘Asha’ literally means hope and so is this woman a ray of hope for her community, hailing from Kukud village Mahuadanr Subdivision of Latehar district in Jharkhand was abandoned immediately after birth and unjustly blamed for her mother's untimely demise, Asha's early years were marred by adversity. A cruel twist of fate saw her father attempting to extinguish her young life. Yet, fate had other plans for Asha, as she found refuge and solace in the nurturing care of her maternal grandmother.

From the shadows of despair, Asha rose with a profound belief in giving life a second chance. Her roots in Kukud village run deep, and it is here that she discovered her purpose – to give back to society in a positive and impactful way.

Five months back Asha came to Bindi International campus and underwent solar engineering training, she was preparing to be a catalyst for change in her village. With an unwavering commitment to uplifting her community, she envisions electrifying Kukud, a place where the absence of electricity casts shadows on the daily lives of its residents. Keeping all her trauma aside, Asha says, “Life gave me a second chance and I want to give back to my community where I grew up.”

Asha's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative impact one individual can have on an entire community. She has returned to her village and is gearing to electrify 50 households through solar electrification.

The journey from abandonment to empowerment is never easy, but Asha's story reminds us that adversity can be the catalyst for positive change. Stay tuned as we follow Asha's inspiring expedition, witnessing the transformation of a village and the illumination of countless lives. Together, we can celebrate the triumph of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope.

Kiran: A Ray of Hope Illuminating Lives and Inspiring Change

Kiran showing the solar lantern she assembled. (Photo Credit-Sanjay Malakar)

Writen By: Swapna Sarita Mohanty

In the remote village of Kukud, nestled within the Mahuadanr Subdivision of Latehar district in Jharkhand, a remarkable woman named Kiran is rewriting the narrative of her community. Unlike many others, Kiran embarked on a unique journey – not just by pursuing her dreams but also by lighting the way for her village and supporting her family members' education through her entrepreneurial venture.

For the past six years, Kiran has been a pivotal member of a Self-Help Group (SHG) in her village. She has extended her support to the women in her community financially, mentally, and educationally. "In the SHG, I have been working closely with 10 groups, addressing their challenges, finding solutions, and ensuring that education becomes a priority," Kiran shared during a recent interaction.

Kiran learning the intricacies of installation.

Kiran's dedication to her community doesn't end there. Faced with the persistent issue of lack of electricity in her village, she took it upon herself to find a solution. She ventured to the Harmara campus, where she is underwent rigorous training in solar engineering for five months. Over the course of her training, Kiran mastered the intricacies of solar technology, equipping herself with the knowledge and skills needed to harness the power of the sun. Now, armed with her newfound expertise, Kiran is on a mission to electrify her village, which has long been shrouded in darkness. By bringing sustainable energy to her community, she is not only illuminating homes but also paving the way for progress and development.

Kiran assembling the Bindi torch.

Kiran's story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment. Her ability to balance her entrepreneurial pursuits, family responsibilities, and community support reflects her exceptional leadership qualities. Through her efforts, she is not only transforming the lives of her fellow villagers but also inspiring a new generation of changemakers.

Kiran with other Solar engineers of her batch.

As we celebrate Kiran's achievements, let her journey serve as a beacon of hope and motivation. She exemplifies the impact one individual can make, reminding us of all that with determination and compassion, we can create a brighter, more empowered future for everyone.

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.