In the heart of Sikkim, India, lies the inspiring story of Devika Gurung, a woman whose passion for traditional arts and crafts has not only shaped her life but also empowered countless underprivileged women in her community. Through her social enterprise, “Fidgety Fingers,” Devika has turned her love for knitting, crocheting, and needlework into a powerful tool for social change. This blog delves into her journey, exploring how she transformed her passion into a purpose-driven mission that is making a difference in the lives of many women.
Early Life and the Search for Purpose
Devika Gurung hails from Namthang, a small town in South Sikkim. Raised in a traditional Gurung family, she was expected to pursue a stable career in fields like medicine or engineering. However, her heart was always drawn to arts and crafts, a passion she inherited from her mother and grandmother, who taught her traditional fiber arts from a young age.
After completing her schooling at Holy Cross School in Tadong, Devika moved to Kolkata to pursue a Diploma in Photography. However, she soon realized that photography, though enjoyable, was not her true calling. Discontented, she dropped out in her third year and took up a job at a BPO to earn a living. Yet, the corporate life left her feeling unfulfilled, and she eventually quit, returning to Gangtok without a professional degree or a clear direction for her future.
Discovering Her True Calling
Back in Gangtok, Devika’s journey of self-discovery took a new turn when she began working as a writer for a local media house. There, she gained insight into various societal issues, particularly those affecting women. This experience fueled her desire to combine her love for arts and crafts with a mission to uplift women in her community.
In 2015, after four years in the media industry, Devika decided to take the leap and founded “Fidgety Fingers.” This project empowers underprivileged women by teaching them traditional fiber arts, providing a sustainable livelihood, and preserving the disappearing crafts of knitting, crocheting, and needlework.
The Birth of “Fidgety Fingers”
“Fidgety Fingers” was officially launched on September 1, 2015, with two primary objectives: to empower underprivileged women and to revive traditional arts and crafts. Devika’s project focused on training women, particularly those from impoverished backgrounds, school dropouts, child brides, and young mothers, in various fiber arts. The training was provided free of cost, and once the women completed their training, they either joined “Fidgety Fingers” or started their own businesses.
To date, “Fidgety Fingers” has trained 60 women, 47 of whom were trained in collaboration with the North East Rural Livelihood Project (NERLP) in rural areas of South Sikkim, and 13 in Sichey, East Sikkim. Currently, the project also trains women inmates at the State Central Jail in Rongyek, further expanding its reach and impact.
Upholding Traditional Arts
Devika’s deep connection to her cultural roots played a significant role in shaping the mission of “Fidgety Fingers.” Growing up in the Himalayan region, where traditional fiber arts were still practiced in every household, Devika learned the basics of knitting, crocheting, needlework, and weaving from her family. The Gurung community, to which she belongs, are traditionally shepherds and weavers, and this heritage inspired her to keep these art forms alive.
At “Fidgety Fingers,” traditional techniques are employed to create a range of handmade products, including toys, home decor, shawls, sweaters, cushion covers, and more. The women knit, crochet, and embroider various motifs by hand, combining ethnic designs with modern aesthetics. These products, available for purchase online, range from Rs 10 to Rs 5,000, making them accessible to a wide audience.
Challenges and Learnings
Starting and running “Fidgety Fingers” has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles Devika faced was convincing women to participate in the project. Handwork, especially knitting and crocheting, requires a great deal of patience and dedication, which can be daunting for many. The training sessions are long and demanding, and it can be difficult to keep women engaged.
However, Devika has learned that creating a supportive and encouraging environment can make a significant difference. By fostering a sense of community and empowering the women to believe in their abilities, many have been inspired to persevere and make the most of the opportunities provided by “Fidgety Fingers.” Devika also credits the women she works with as her everyday heroes, who, despite facing numerous challenges, approach life with positivity and resilience.
Recognition and Future Aspirations
“Fidgety Fingers” has gained recognition for its work in empowering women and preserving traditional arts. The project received the “Special Mention” Award at the UPSTART, Northeast Startup Challenge, and Festival 2016-17, held in Guwahati, Assam, under the social sector services category.
Looking ahead, Devika aspires to expand “Fidgety Fingers” across all four districts of Sikkim, empowering more women and creating a well-recognized and trusted brand. She believes that true success lies not only in personal achievement but in lifting others along the way. For Devika, being an entrepreneur means being a problem solver, and she is committed to continuing her work to make a positive impact on the lives of women in her community.
Her story serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us that when we pursue what sets our soul on fire, we can light the way for others to follow.
