Bihar: Women in Jamui Empowered by Herbal 'Gulal' Production as Demand Rises for Holi
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Synopsis
As Holi approaches, the demand for herbal gulal in Bihar is rising. Women in Jamui are producing eco-friendly gulal from natural ingredients, gaining financial independence and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Key Takeaways
- Women in Jamui are producing herbal gulal for Holi.
- The production combines traditional knowledge and creativity.
- Herbal gulal is made from natural ingredients.
- Women are earning significantly more than before.
- The initiative aims for empowerment and sustainability.
Jamui, March 7 (NationPress) As the vibrant festival of Holi approaches, the markets in Bihar are bustling with activity. This year, there is an increased interest in herbal gulal crafted from flowers and natural ingredients. In the Jamui district, women are producing this eco-friendly gulal, utilizing their traditional knowledge and creativity to develop bright colors from various fruits, flowers, and plants.
In the village of Matia, located in the Laxmipur block, local women are achieving financial independence through the production of herbal gulal. They utilize natural components such as spinach, marigold, rose petals, beetroot, orange, and arrowroot to make these chemical-free colors.
Geeta Bharti, a trainer involved in the initiative, explained to IANS that these women were previously engaged in making bidi (a type of thin cigarette) and were earning a mere Rs 50 to Rs 60 a day, often resulting in health complications from the work.
Thanks to the herbal gulal project, they now earn over Rs 200 daily.
“The demand for our herbal gulal is increasing significantly this year. It’s reassuring to know that it’s entirely safe for the skin,” she stated.
Nirbhay Pratap Singh, the Circle Officer overseeing the initiative, mentioned that this year, a group of 20 women is producing 45 quintals of herbal gulal, with production continuing until just before Holi.
“Our aim is not only to make women self-sufficient but also to empower them through sustainable livelihoods,” Singh added.
The herbal gulal is completely organic, devoid of harmful chemicals, and gentle on both skin and eyes. Additional ingredients like jasmine oil, sandalwood, and multani mitti provide extra skin benefits. This year, the women’s group from Abir Nature Village in Matia is prepared to supply 45 quintals of this beautiful and safe gulal for the festive season.
Holi, known as the festival of colors, is a joyous occasion celebrated across India and in various other countries. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, marks the arrival of spring, and fosters unity among people.
Families and friends gather to play with colors, strengthening their bonds and delighting in the festive spirit. Preparations begin weeks in advance, with markets filled with gulal, water guns, and sweets. Streets are adorned, enhancing the excitement of the celebration.
