"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Puducherry

Star Citizens

Sustainable Artistry: Bavithran's Inspiring Mission to Transform Palm Leaves into Eco-Friendly Toys and Gifts

Bavithran, an 18-year-old college student from Puducherry, has taken the initiative to craft eco-friendly toys and decorative pieces from palm leaves. Starting his journey at the age of 11, Bavithran has spent the last seven years perfecting his unique artistry, aiming to promote sustainable choices and reduce plastic toy consumption. Under the guidance of his school teacher, V Umapathi, Bavithran discovered the world of sustainable toys through workshops. Bavithran's exceptional talent and interesting designs caught the attention of the Puducherry government, earning him the prestigious Kalaimamani title in April 2023. What began as a passion project for Bavithran quickly evolved into a thriving business. Alongside his dedicated team, he works tirelessly to transform palm fronds into captivating sculptures, ranging from animals to whimsical characters. Their focus is not profit-driven, but rather on raising awareness about the need to replace plastic toys. Many of their creations are donated to children. The process starts with collecting raw materials and soaking palm fronds in water to make fiber twisting easier. Meticulous knitting and the use of threads or glue bring the pieces together. Affordability and accessibility are at the core of Bavithran's art, as he wants everyone to experience the joy of owning something handmade. In addition to crafting toys, Bavithran and his team fulfill bulk orders for personalized gifts and conduct workshops, live demonstrations, and interactive events. Over 100 schools have invited them to instill a sense of responsibility towards the environment in children. Bavithran's inspiring journey and commitment to sustainable living have not only made him an advocate for eco-friendly toys but also a source of inspiration for others. Through his craft, he aims to create a lasting impact on the world by inspiring the younger generation to make sustainable choices.

2 Dec 2023
Star Citizens

A Joseph: The Visionary Behind Puducherry's Towering Totem of Welfare

In the bustling streets of Puducherry, a city in southern India, a 49-year-old man named A Joseph has emerged as a symbol of selflessness and change. Despite his own physical challenges, Joseph has dedicated himself to uplifting the lives of others through acts of kindness and social service. Joseph, who hails from Ariyankuppam and has dwarfism, uses a portion of his income to support various social causes. He purchases food and clothing for the underprivileged, raises awareness about epidemics, and distributes refreshing buttermilk to police personnel working under the scorching sun. His journey towards compassion began in 2008 when he helped a blind person who had fallen on the road. This incident ignited a passion within Joseph to assist differently-abled individuals and the elderly who live on the streets. Despite having discontinued his formal education after the ninth grade, Joseph later cleared his Class 10 examination as a private candidate. He established his own shop specializing in printing tasks, bookbinding, and rubber stamp making. With a monthly income ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,000, he supports his mother and provides clothing and food to those in need. He even offers free bookbinding services to government school students. Joseph actively engages in campaigns during elections, emphasizing the importance of voting through door-to-door canvassing. He collaborates with doctors to organize free health camps and educates the public about disease prevention, particularly regarding dengue and malaria. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a crucial role in spreading awareness and encouraging vaccination. Through his unwavering dedication and acts of kindness, A Joseph has become an epitome of compassion and welfare, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.  

21 Aug 2023
Star Citizens

Preserving History and Nurturing Tradition: Ayyanar's Legacy of Vessels and Toys

In a small village nestled in Puducherry, a man named Ayyanar has embarked on a remarkable journey to preserve the treasures of the past. Beyond the mere functionality of vessels and the joy of toys, Ayyanar recognizes the cultural significance they hold and the stories they carry. To him, each piece of crockery and cookware carries a rich historical narrative.  Among his unique collection is the Rail Aduki, a set of fourteen to eighteen vessels specifically designed for cooking while traveling. Complete with plates and spoons, this set made it convenient to prepare and serve meals for an entire family on the go.  According to Ayyanar, each vessel has a scientific purpose behind its creation. For instance, the Kinni, a bowl-like vessel, was used by our ancestors to feed young children. The rhythmic tapping of the spoon against the Kinni helped lull the child to sleep. Unfortunately, these traditions have been forgotten, leading to difficulties in childcare today. In addition to his collection of vessels, Ayyanar also gathers toys from bygone eras. One such toy is the Marapachi Bommai, which prioritized children's well-being without conforming to societal norms. Traditionally given to the groom before marriage, the doll would later become a toy for the couple's child. Crafted from rare wood with medicinal properties, these dolls ensured that biting the toy transferred the essence of the tree to the child's body, posing no risk or harm. Ayyanar's three-storey house stands as a witness to the endurance of time, and the vessels within flutter the hearts of those who witness their legacy. Ayyanar dreams of a future where these vessels are not forgotten, but embraced once again. By using these vessels, we can take a step towards a plastic-free world, where the traditions of the past merge with the sustainability of the future. As Ayyanar's eyes beam with hope, his mission serves as an inspiration for all of us. Let us recognize the value of our heritage, preserve our traditions, and pass them on to future generations. In doing so, we not only honor our ancestors but also create a bridge between the past, present, and future—a bridge built on the foundations of culture, sustainability, and love for our shared history.

2 Jun 2023
Star Citizens

Positive Reads

School in Puducherry Provides Hope and Education for Children with Disabilities

Carunnai School, founded by C Ganeshan in Puducherry, is transforming the lives of children with disabilities by providing them with education and a nurturing environment. The school, which started as a non-formal education institution, has now become a haven for special children, addressing their unique needs and challenges. Ganeshan, inspired by his visit to a camp for children with disabilities, dedicated himself to becoming an educator for them. With his own earnings and support from organizations like Rotary Club of Cosmos and Integra Software Services, he established Carunnai School. His wife, Revathi, also joined the mission, specializing in audiology and speech therapy. Carunnai School focuses on the happiness of its students, encouraging their interests and talents. The educators work closely with parents and support staff, developing personalized teaching plans that cater to each child's strengths and needs. Through this holistic approach, the students acquire essential skills such as reading, writing, and financial literacy. Currently, Carunnai School accommodates over 85 students, including eight orphans. Daily activities range from domestic skills training to academics and social skills development. The school also offers various therapies based on individual requirements, including physiotherapy, speech therapy, visual stimulation, and psychiatric therapy. In addition to education, Carunnai School serves as a home and refuge for children with disabilities who have been abandoned by their relatives. The school has witnessed remarkable success, with 10 students completing secondary education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and now undergoing vocational training. While Carunnai School faces challenges when working with children who arrive later in life, the dedicated team ensures their safety and progress. Recognizing their efforts, the school has received the Best Institution Award on World Disabled Day from the Department of Social Welfare, Puducherry government.

12 Oct 2023
Positive Reads

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