"Ruma Devi: A Trailblazing Artisan Empowering Women Against All Odds"

"Embroidering Empowerment: Ruma Devi's Journey from Veils to Victory in Women's Empowerment"

Ruma Devi's life is a testament to the resilience and strength of women who dare to dream and rise above challenging circumstances. A former school dropout and victim of a male-dominated society, Ruma's unwavering determination transformed her into a symbol of empowerment for women artisans in Barmer.

Born into adversity, Ruma Devi faced early hardships, losing her mother at the tender age of four and being raised by her paternal uncle after her father remarried. Despite dropping out of school in the 8th grade and enduring a financially unstable marriage at seventeen, Ruma refused to accept her fate of limited opportunities. Armed with the embroidery skills passed down by her grandmother, she envisioned a brighter future for herself and the women around her.

In 2006, Ruma founded a self-help group with ten women from her village, pooling their resources to create handcrafted cushions and bags. Overcoming societal challenges like the restrictive "Purdah" system and the region's economic limitations, Ruma's leadership skills propelled her into the role of President of GVCS in 2010.

Ruma's perseverance caught the attention of renowned designers, leading to her breakthrough in the fashion world. In the 2016 Rajasthan Heritage Week, she showcased her collections on the ramp, marking a historic moment for her region. Her talent attracted collaborations with national and international designers, expanding the reach of GVCS and providing livelihoods for thousands of women.

Acknowledged with prestigious awards such as the "NariShakti Award 2018" and "Designer of the Year 2019," Ruma Devi has become a beacon of hope and empowerment. She has impacted 22,000 women across 75 villages through training sessions, supporting them to earn a living through their talents.

Ruma's dedication extends beyond craftsmanship; she organizes seminars on pressing issues like female foeticide and suicide prevention, empowering women to break free from societal constraints. Her recognition on platforms like "Kaun Banega Crorepati" as a "Karamveer" by Amitabh Bachchan further solidifies her status as a symbol of progress and equality.

Today, Ruma Devi's organization, GVCS, promises a better future for the women and children of Barmer. Her story inspires countless others to stand up, question male dominance, and weave their dreams into reality. Ruma Devi is not just a celebrated designer; she is an epitome of talent, determination, and courage, proving that believing in oneself can lead to remarkable achievements.

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The Positive Diary

Reference:

rumadevi.com

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