"Bamboo Warli kandeels" are emerging as the new eco-friendly décor, poised to brighten homes this Diwali. Handcrafted by tribal women under the leadership of the Keshav Srushti Institute's "Bamboo First" initiative, these artistic lanterns are made from bamboo, showcasing the dedication and hard work of the tribal villagers from Vikramgad in Palghar district, Maharashtra.

These eco-kandeels are not only beautiful decorations but also sustainable products that help protect the environment. The initiative aims to empower underprivileged women, providing them with employment opportunities and supporting their holistic development, including access to better education, healthcare, and living standards.

Vikramgad Bamboo Udyog Producer Company Limited, an Off Farmers Producer Organization (OFPO) registered under the Companies Act and operating under the brand name "Bamboo First," employed over 500 women to produce 3,000 handcrafted bamboo kandeels for the upcoming Diwali festival. The organization offers sustainable solutions using bamboo to combat climate change while empowering tribal communities with livelihood opportunities.

With a commitment to "Sustainable products for sustainable living," Vikramgad Bamboo Udyog is supported by the Keshav Srushti Institute and financially backed by NABARD. Keshav Srushti has been instrumental in transforming the tribal community and enhancing the living conditions in many villages across the Palghar region. The initiative has been greatly influenced by the mentorship of Shri Bimal Kedia and the extensive efforts of Shri Gaurav Srivastava, who have played key roles in guiding the villagers towards entrepreneurship.

The organization "Bamboo First" reflects the aspirations of tribal women from rural Vikramgad, who have embraced skill development and self-reliance. Today, it stands as one of the few companies fully owned and managed by tribal people, with a majority of its directors being women. The company has 253 tribal bamboo artisans as shareholders, and its CEO is a tribal youth.

The journey, which began in 2019 with just one village and 25 tribal women in the Vikramgad block, has now expanded to support 23 villages and 700 individuals, predominantly women. Vikramgad Bamboo Udyog Producer Company Limited has evolved from being a small village initiative into a model for tribal women empowerment and sustainable business, promoting traditional art, culture, and crafts.

People may contact for purchasing eco kandeels or bamboo products:

Avinash Samant 9819644162, Sunil Gajjar-9320308332.