NARI DANA
The wings to achieve freedom
About Nari Dana
Nari Dana is a social enterprise carrying on a “freedom trade” It exists to lift women out of a life trapped in poverty, by selling handmade products they have created.
Nari Dana means “women’s wings” in Bengali, and it describes how women are provided with wings which enable them to achieve their “freedom” (mukti). This concept is embodied in the Nari Dana logo of the bird flying free from captivity.
Nari Dana products
The women of Nari Dana produce an attractive range of handmade personal and household products. The designs are drawn from the rich heritage of West Bengal, in which soft tones are offset by rich and vibrant colours. For information about our product range, and where our products can be viewed and bought, see the Nari Dana Products Page below.
How it started
The Nari Dana project was inspired by teaming up with Veronica, a former product manager from the UK textile industry. She runs an online business called Tabitha Living, which sells high-quality products made by women from poor and disadvantaged backgrounds, who are employed and paid a fair wage.
Women’s empowerment
The CRS women’s empowerment programme operates at 8 urban and 2 rural locations. CRS provides trainers and material support while the local community organisation is responsible for providing premises where women can meet.
Skills training
CRS instructors offer year-long courses to girls aged 14 and over. Skills are assessed quarterly and in an end-of-year examination. Financial and business management skills are also taught and all participants are encouraged to set up individual bank accounts. By the end of the course they care equipped to set up their own micro-business.
The CRS women’s empowerment programme has made a tremendous impact on the lives of thousands of women, giving them a sense of self-confidence and equality as individuals, as well as the skills and resources to be self-sufficient and independent. Your support can help many more women to have a hope and a future.
Address
Cathedral Relief Service, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Cathedral Road, Kolkata 700 071, West Bengal, India
Call Us
+91 33 2223 3292
