Sunday, April 29, 2007

Knitting dreams in wool

Pali Waraich, an ex-army officer’s wife conducts various exhibitions of apparels and accessories made by homemakers from all over India. She started this programme nearly 20 years ago, solely with her talent and determination to help the underprivileged women to be financially independent. She used to be an active member of AWA (Army Women Association) and taught knitting and stitching to the wives of jawans.Proud but humble Pali said, “I wanted to help the needy women living in the slums by providing them employment. A needle and thread which cost just Rs 20 have helped these women a great deal. This helps them to be self dependent as well as take care of their family at home as the job does not require any travelling.”The exhibition held at Chetna store at Kala Ghoda displays a wide variety of classic work in the form of beautiful saris, kurtis, dresses, shawls, bags and accessories, including an exclusive collection of her designs. The displayed apparels range from Rs 250 to Rs 15000.The creations displayed are by women from various parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and other parts of India. Pali guides and co ordinates the woman who are a part of the project and also helps them to manage their finances. The profit gained from one exhibition is kept aside for the next exhibition.
http://www.cybernoon.com/DisplayArticle.asp?section=fromthepress&subsection=inbombay&xfile=April2007_inbombay_standard12676