Kalbeliya women can find new opportunities at night school.
• Sanju Devi, a 28-year-old woman from Bhairwai village, runs an atta chakki (flour mill) to provide quality food staples to 40-50 households in Bhairwai village.
• The Samata night school, established a year ago, provides education through a community-designed curriculum based on the specific needs and aspirations of the Kalbeliya community.
• The school educates women, including Hindi, mathematics, practical life skills, and enjoys engaging songs and games.
• The community, known for traditional Kalbeliya art, relies on traditional dance and singing for income, with school education and good living standards being unattainable.
• The school was launched by Manthan Sanstha, a grassroots voluntary organization, to address the pressing needs of the Kalbeliya community.
• The women, who initially hesitated to step outside their homes, now have a better understanding of their health, cultural heritage, and government schemes.
• The women have transformed their lives by supporting their families, earning a livelihood, and becoming role models in their community.