Infosys’ Post

To commemorate National Handloom Day, we bring you a tale of persistence and opportunity. Mamata Bindhani, once a daily wage laborer in Mayurbhanj, Odisha, struggled to provide for her family. Her life took a turn when she joined the Infosys Foundation-Mauna Dhwani Foundation (MDF) initiative. After just 3 months of rigorous training, Mamata mastered the intricate art of traditional handloom weaving and natural dyeing. With her newfound skills, she not only contributed on the production floor but also helped establish a micro weaving center in her village. For Mamata, the proudest achievement is ensuring her children receive a quality education. This initiative by Mauna Dhwani Foundation, supported by Infosys Foundation, is dedicated to reviving Mayurbhanj’s rich handloom tradition that had been pushed to the margins by industrialization. Women, who were the true custodians of this craft, were often left without resources or financial autonomy. Recognizing this gap, MDF has, since July 2024, established 3 training centers that equip 150 women not only with weaving skills but also with financial literacy and leadership training. The program is structured over 18-24 months, MDF also ensures a steady flow of work orders, providing artisans with much-needed financial stability and confidence. A landmark outcome of this initiative is the revival of the Mayurbhanj Santhali saree, an art form that was on the verge of extinction. Today, these exquisite sarees are crafted under the brand Kukmu - meaning “manifestation of dreams” in Santhali - and stand as powerful symbols of resilience and empowerment. Through this collective effort, women are reclaiming their heritage, securing economic independence, and weaving brighter futures - one thread at a time. #InfosysCSR | #WomenEmpowerment | #SustainableLivelihood | #ImpactInAction