Gadchiroli July 3 (District Correspondent) “Mawa Askana Lon” (Our Sacred Home) a symbol of liberation from the centuries-old, oppressive Kurma practice was inaugurated at village Sitatola in Dhanora taluka the other day.
With the unyielding support of SPARSH and Asanya Foundation, the women of Sitatola constructed this house after the yearlong shramadana. This is the first such place constructed voluntarily by the women for the residential facility of the women during their menstruation period.
“Mawa Askana Lon,” walls speak in the Madiya language about menstrual health, awareness, and pride. SPARSH has trained four village women in the making of reusable cloth sanitary pads, turning a tool of stigma into a source of income and empowerment. Every woman and girl—bleeding or not—will now live, rest, and heal in this space together, without shame or separation, it was told.
Ms. Chetna Madavi, chairperson of the newly formed women-led management committee, said this is not just a house. This is our rebellion, our sanctuary, our gift to our daughters. It is the beginning of the end for the Kurma practice in our lives.
Ms. Satyashila Kumre, Kavita Usendi, Asha Atla, Sushila Naroti, Mamita Usendi once ordinary women—are now warriors of change, inspiring others across the district. Former Sarpanch Vilas Kumre, Gram Panchayat member Haridas Kumre, and businessman Raju Madavi were also present.
At the inaugural programme, Dr. Sachin Madavi, Assistant Commissioner of Social Welfare, Dr. Dilip Barsagade and Roza Khobragade of SPARSH; Prakash Shende of Asanya Foundation; and Dr. Manoj Kumar of Universal Innovation, Gondia, were prominently present. All of them highly appreciated the initiative of the village women and were visibly moved by the depth of the change taking roots in the tiny village of Sitatola.
This is not just a local story. This is a blueprint for revolution. It is a reminder that when women unite, no tradition-howsoever ancient, howsoever cruel—can stand in their way, said Dr. Dilip Barsagade while expressing his views on the initiative.
A large number of villagers also attended the programme.
