Champa's Breakthrough: Embracing Technology for the First Time

Champa posing for shutterbugs post her solar training

Written By Swapna Sarita Mohanty

Photos By Sanjay Malakar

Champa, a 26-year-old resident of Nichliphali hamlet, nestled in Uplagarh village, Mount Abu, is a woman whose resilience and determination echo through the ages.

Champa's story is not uncommon in rural India. Married off at the tender age of eight, she bid farewell to her childhood aspirations and embraced a life of household chores and farming duties. Education, once a beacon of hope, became a distant memory as she navigated complexities of adulthood far before her time.

Champa posing with a solar circuit

Yet, amidst the shadows of societal norms, Champa harboured a flicker of hope—a flame that refused to be extinguished. With an unyielding resolve, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery, fueled by the desire to carve a brighter future not only for herself but for her 8-year-old daughter as well.

It was within the walls of Bindi International's solar training hall of Harmara, Kishangarh, that Champa found the catalyst for transformation. Here, she not only mastered the intricacies of solar engineering but also acquired invaluable life skills that empowered her in ways she never thought possible.

For the first time in her life, Champa learned to wield a smartphone, unlocking a world of possibilities at her fingertips. From online money transfers to digital literacy, she embraced technology with a fervor that belied her humble beginnings. Moreover, the training extended beyond technical expertise, delving into topics such as financial management and personal hygiene, enriching Champa's knowledge and confidence.

As Champa reminisces about her arduous journey, memories of toiling in the fields and embarking on treacherous journeys to sell her produce flood her mind. The incident of falling off an overloaded jeep serves as a poignant reminder of the risks she faced in pursuit of livelihood. Yet, from adversity emerged resilience, prompting Champa to adapt and prioritize her safety above all else.

Champa with fellow solar engineering trainees from Sirohi, Mount Abu

Now, armed with newfound skills and unwavering determination, Champa stands at the precipice of change. Her mission: to electrify 50 households in her village, banishing the darkness that has plagued them for far too long. With each solar panel she installs, she not only illuminates homes but also ignites hope within her community.

But Champa's ambitions extend far beyond electrification. With a steely resolve, she is determined to break the cycle of generational poverty and empower her daughter with the gift of education and independence. Through her own journey, she has forged a path for future generations to follow—a path illuminated by perseverance, resilience, and unwavering hope.

As Champa prepares to return to her village, her heart brims with anticipation. For her, the journey from darkness to light is not just a metaphorical one—it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of rural women, whose dreams defy the confines of tradition and adversity. And as she sets out to transform her community, Champa's story serves as a beacon of inspiration for all who dare to dream against all odds.

Inspirational Journey of Pooja Devi, Health Worker and Lifelong Learner

Written By Swapna Sarita Mohanty

Meet Pooja Devi, a 32-year-old health worker who defied educational barriers to carve her path in the NGO sector. Pooja's inspiring journey began in 2014 when she ventured into the audio-visual section, armed with little to no prior knowledge. Undeterred by her lack of formal education, Pooja embraced the opportunity to learn, showcasing her determination and passion

Pooja Devi working on health material she uses during workshop to create awareness.

In 2014, Pooja Devi joined the NGO sector, immersing herself in the audio-visual section. Despite her initial lack of expertise, she dedicated 15 days to grasp the basics of handling cameras, creating videos, and capturing moments through photography. Her rapid learning curve propelled her into a dynamic role within the audio-visual team, where she showcased her newfound skills.

In 2017, Pooja took a significant leap by joining the Enriche department. Here, she honed her knowledge in health, hygiene, and overall well-being. Pooja not only learned the intricacies of Enriche but also became a teacher herself, training women not just in India but globally. Overcoming language barriers, Pooja emphasized her belief in learning first and then educating others.

Pooja Devi maintains record of the day long work she does.

Driven by a passion for community health, Pooja transitioned into a full-time health worker. She embarked on a journey to create awareness about menstrual health, nutrition, and anemia among women. Traveling extensively across various states in India, Pooja conducts workshops and awareness programs, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of countless women. During her multifaceted learning journey, Pooja acquired skills in report writing and adeptly used an iPad to create impactful presentations. Her ability to adapt to technological advancements showcases her resilience and commitment to continuous learning. “Being a health worker has been a transformative journey for me. In the beginning, I lacked confidence to discuss diverse topics, especially with men. I felt shy answering their questions, particularly those related to reproduction and other health aspects. However, over the years, this experience has become my strength. Now, I not only confidently conduct workshops with men but also address their inquiries with assurance."

Pooja's commitment to education didn't stop with her professional growth. Currently, she is leading advanced English learning classes, empowering others with the knowledge she has acquired. Pooja's story exemplifies the adage that learning is a lifelong journey, one that she continues to embrace with enthusiasm.

Pooja making cloth sanitary napkin.

Pooja Devi's remarkable journey from a novice in the audio-visual sector to a champion of women's health and education is a testament to the power of determination and continuous learning. Her story serves as an inspiration for those facing educational challenges, proving that with passion and perseverance, anyone can achieve their dreams and make a significant impact on the community.

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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.

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.