Har Ghar Diya Project – Lighting Homes, Empowering Lives

Several trips to the tribal belts of Palghar brought us face-to-face with the quiet strength of rural women, most of whom were deeply rooted in traditional farming. During our surveys, we engaged them in conversations, asking about their skills, routines, and dreams. What we discovered was deeply moving: behind their soft smiles was an eagerness to learn, to grow, and to do something more.

As Diwali approached, a thought sparked—why not introduce the idea of painting diyas (earthen lamps)? At first, the women were hesitant. Painting was unfamiliar territory. But their enthusiasm outshone their doubts. In early 2023, we began with just 15 women and 2000 diyas. They painted timidly at first, but with every stroke, their confidence bloomed.

Today, we are proud to say that over 30 women are painting more than 10,000 diyas, each one a symbol of creativity, independence, and cultural pride. The designs are rich, the colours vibrant, and the passion unmistakable. What began as a simple idea became our first rural empowerment initiative.

Among these women, Suvarna stands out—a trailblazer who was the first to join and believe in the project. For the first time in her life, she earned an income with her own hands, and that spark of financial independence has changed her world.

The Har Ghar Diya project lit more than homes.
It lit up hearts.
It lit up lives.