Ruma Devi at WDF Handloom Day: Crafting Mental Well-being and Empowerment Through Handloom Art

At the recent WDF National Handloom Day event in Goa, SAMVAAD had the distinct privilege of engaging with the legendary Ruma Devi — a social worker, weaver, and changemaker whose journey has inspired millions across India. From the sands of Rajasthan to global platforms, Ruma Devi embodies the power of passion, resilience, and community spirit, showing how craftsmanship is not just a livelihood but a means to strengthen mental health and empower women.

During our heartfelt conversation, Ruma Devi shared insights that go far beyond weaving. She emphasized that the women of rural India, despite limited formal education, can achieve extraordinary things. “हमारी बहनें यह सोचती हैं कि हम कम पढ़ी लिखी हैं। हम गांव में बैठी हैं। हम कुछ नहीं कर पा रहे,” she said, pointing out a common mindset in many villages. Yet, through handloom and artisan work, these women can realize their potential and contribute meaningfully to both culture and economy.

Ruma Devi highlighted the importance of innovation and sustainability in craftwork. She explained that handloom is not static — it evolves with time.

“समय के अनुसार हमें रोज नई चीजें लानी बहुत जरूरी है। कभी-कभी हम यह सोचते हैं जो आज से 10 साल पहले हम बुनाई करते थे कि आज भी वही चीज ले आते हैं। लेकिन नहीं, बारीक काउंटिंग धागे में जाइए। बहुत सुंदर-सुंदर चीजें बनाइए। नई-नई चीजों की खोज करिए।”

This focus on innovation ensures not only the survival of handloom traditions but also provides artisans with continuous engagement and a sense of accomplishment.

One of the most striking aspects of our discussion was Ruma Devi’s reflection on mental health through craftsmanship. She reminded us that traditionally, women worked together at home — weaving, creating handicrafts, and sharing stories, songs, and experiences. These activities were inherently therapeutic, fostering social bonding, emotional well-being, and a sense of purpose. Today, however, these practices are disappearing, replaced by isolation and excessive reliance on social media.

“काम उनके पास में नहीं है। सोशल मीडिया का दुरुपयोग करना शुरू कर दिया है। ऐसे में टेंशन बहुत होती है और दिमाग फ्री नहीं रहता। तो ऐसे में दिमाग स्थिर नहीं रहता,” she observed.

Her advice was simple yet profound: stay engaged in hands-on, creative work. When one creates something with their hands, it not only nurtures the soul but also reduces mental stress and instills pride.

“चीजें हाथ से बनती हैं, वह आत्मा से बनती हैं। ऐसा काम करना चाहिए। फ्री नहीं रहना है। कुछ ना कुछ अपने हाथों से ऐसा काम होना चाहिए ताकि लोग पहने तो लगे कि वाओ कितना सुंदर बना है।”

By weaving, crafting, or creating, individuals experience a meditative focus that strengthens resilience and emotional stability.

Ruma Devi also shared her remarkable journey of community empowerment. Today, she works with over 5000 artisans and 45 lakh women across various skill groups — from weaving to handicrafts and even food products. Through her initiatives and government-backed programs, these women gain visibility, market access, and the confidence to pursue independent livelihoods. Her message to them — and to anyone seeking motivation — is empowering: regardless of your background or education, you can take the first step from where you are.

The conversation with Ruma Devi at SAMVAAD reinforced that craft is not just an economic activity. It is a vehicle for cultural preservation, social connection, and mental well-being. Through her words, it was evident that when women engage in handloom and craftwork, they are not merely producing goods; they are weaving their identities, resilience, and confidence into each piece.

As we left the event, the resonance of Ruma Devi’s insights lingered: fostering mental health and empowerment is deeply intertwined with creativity, community, and sustained engagement. Her work reminds us that even simple acts, weaving a thread, crafting a pattern, or sharing knowledge — can create profound impact.

Takeaway: Engage in hands-on creative work, support artisans and handloom, and remember that empowerment and mental well-being are often woven together through passion, purpose, and perseverance.

Special Thanks to Ministry of Textiles for supporting such talents and making a better ecosystem.

Saumya D Tewari | 9811901985

Write to us at samvaadconnect@gmail.com