JAIPUR:
Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Group, as part of its community building initiative, honours Teeja Devi, an exemplary member of one of its Self-Help Groups (SHGs) ‘Tulsi Mahila Samuh’, which is dedicated to empowering women. Teeja’s remarkable journey from a modest upbringing to becoming a pioneer in her village’s safa-making industry serves as a testament to the impact she has made with her unwavering determination and the strength of community support.
Ambuja Cements’ CSR arm has provided unequivocal support to Teeja Devi, whose family was engaged in the traditional safa-making (the art of making turban) business in Mundwa village. Despite the family’s longstanding involvement, the income generated from this business was less to meet their daily needs. It was Teeja Devi’s steadfast determination that led her to take proactive steps to alleviate her family’s financial stature. She became a member of ‘Tulsi Mahila Samuh’ with the support of Ambuja Cements’ CSR arm.
Overcoming numerous challenges, Teeja Devi embarked on her journey to master the art of safa-making, a craft that had long been carried out traditionally by men. In addition to honing her safa-making skills, she actively participated in SHG meetings, where she shared her vision of transforming and expanding her family’s business. With financial assistance from both the SHG and a local bank, she set out to breathe a new life into the traditional safa-making trade. Her remarkable achievements and life journey have inspired countless women in her village to pursue their dreams and strive for financial independence. To promote gender equality, Teeja Devi is presently mentoring and training young girls and women in the art of making safa, ensuring that her legacy of empowerment continues to thrive.
The entire town has been inspired by Teeja Devi’s incredible journey, which has brought her various recognitions for defying gender expectations and pursuing her goals with tenacity and persistence.
Ambuja Cements through its CSR initiative is committed towards supporting initiatives like SHGs (Tulsi Mahila Samuh) that foster women empowerment and gender equality. Teeja Devi’s story reinforces the impact that can be achieved when individuals are empowered to overcome societal barriers. Her accomplishments serve as a tribute to the potential that exists in every person, regardless of gender or upbringing.
