Guwahati: Specially-abled children at Shishu Sarothi craft diyas for Diwali

With Diwali approaching, the Shishu Sarothi NGO in Assam has launched an inspiring initiative where specially-abled children paint diyas for the festive season. This unique skill development program enables the children to create colourful diyas that will be sold to support the organization, while also fostering their confidence and independence.

In this program, children learn techniques such as using vibrant colors and dot designs to decorate diyas. "We are painting diyas for Diwali, using red and green colours and adding dot designs," shared Richa Adhikary, one participant, adding that she plans to buy a T-shirt and light sparklers with her earnings. Through this initiative, Shishu Sarothi provides a path for children to connect with the community and gain meaningful skills.

The teachers at Shishu Sarothi play a significant role in the children’s growth. "We teach them based on their abilities, guiding them with colors like green, red, and more," shared one teacher who has worked with the NGO since 1999. Those who need extra assistance are supported with hands-on guidance, while others work independently. This program is backed by enthusiastic families as well, who see the joy and confidence it brings to their children. A parent explained, "My son loves painting diyas – choosing colours, adding dots, and celebrating with sparklers on Diwali. The school even rewards their efforts with some money."

Shishu Sarothi’s vocational unit, which has been operating since 2005, provides long-term skill training, where students learn crafts like screen printing, stitching, and, during Diwali, diya painting. “For Diwali, we prepare around 9,000 to 10,000 diyas. The students wash, dry, color, pack, and sell them, and they show a special interest in this work,” said another teacher.

The NGO, led by Executive Director Ketaki Bardalai, has been active for nearly 38 years. "Shishu Sarothi’s mission is to create an inclusive world where every child, regardless of ability, is valued as part of humanity’s diversity," Bardalai explained. The vocational training program aligns with this vision, aiming to make Diwali a festival of inclusivity and empowerment.

Each diya crafted at Shishu Sarothi this Diwali carries a message of resilience, creativity, and community spirit, showcasing how the festival can illuminate lives in more ways than one.