Introduction:
One day, I joined 30 women learning about handloom skills on a visit to Bellary Handloom Cooperative. The goal was to understand the handloom business, its designs, and different types of handlooms. Little did I know, the most interesting part of the day would be the emotions these women went through.
Segment 1: Excitement and Anxiety – A Shy Start
At the beginning, the women seemed excited yet a bit anxious. I went with my colleagues, and we were busy chatting. We didn’t notice that the women were not fully enjoying the trip. They wanted to have fun but were holding back. One of us noticed and encouraged them. Soon, they started singing, and the atmosphere changed. Laughter filled the bus, and everyone became happy.
Segment 2: Temples and Triumphs – The Best Part
After the visit to the handloom place, the women suggested visiting three temples. They were so excited! The women who were quiet at first were now leading the way and navigating the bus confidently. We suggested having lunch elsewhere, but they convinced us to eat at the temples. It felt like we entered their comfort zone. Visiting the temples was not just about prayers; it was about them showing us around and enjoying themselves.
Segment 3: Twilight Concerns – Real Worries
As the day went on, we lost track of time, and it got dark. The women, still happy, started worrying about reaching home late and facing scolding from their families. It made me think about whether it’s fair for them to feel this way. When I was a child, my father worried about my safety and set curfews. But as adults, shouldn’t these women have the freedom to manage their time?
Empathy Prevails – A Compassionate End
Despite our initial reluctance, we understood their worries. We asked the bus driver to drop each woman at her home. It made me think about the societal norms that restrict women even as adults. The women’s request to be dropped at their doorsteps highlighted a challenge in society, making me wonder about giving women more freedom and trust.
Conclusion:
The day at Bellary Handloom Cooperative wasn’t just about learning handloom skills; it was a day of empowerment for these women. From initial shyness to leading at the temples, their transformation was amazing. This story is not just about handlooms; it’s about empowering these women and rethinking the norms that shape their lives. The journey was about creating a tapestry of empowerment and understanding in the lives of these incredible women.
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