Agartala women light up Diwali with handmade candles, empowered through self-employment
Agartala, October 29:
In a heartening example of self-reliance, a group of women in Agartala has become self-employed through a small
Operating out of Joynagar, the candle unit started over 40 years ago under the guidance of Sudhan Banerjee, who helped train a few local women in candle-making. Today, around fifteen women regularly work here, producing one to one-and-a-half quintals of candles daily, with additional hands hired during the festive season.
Initially, the women sold their candles within their neighborhoods, but as demand grew, they expanded into local markets.
The unit now produces decorative colored candles of various sizes alongside traditional white ones, adding vibrancy to homes during Diwali.
Many of the women earn between Rs 7,000 and Rs 10,000 during the festival season, an essential income that supplements their families and aids in education and loan repayments.
In addition to financial independence, the work has given these women a sense of purpose. One worker shared, “Now, we are no longer dependent entirely on our husband’s income. We’re able to contribute to our children’s education and make a better life.”
This growth has even brought demand from outside Agartala, and during Diwali, their candles are a sought-after item.
Beyond economic empowerment, these women see their candle-making unit as a beacon of inspiration for others.
Their story shines as an example of how small-scale enterprises can bring financial stability and empowerment, lighting up not only homes during Diwali but also the lives of those involved.
