Holi is a cherished time at Kama Ayurveda, marked by our collaboration with the New Delhi-based NGO, Prabhat. Together, we've embarked on a meaningful journey to give back to nature in a meaningful way.
Prabhat is deeply committed to the educational and vocational empowerment of differently-abled children and young adults. Their Avacayam program, which translates to 'flower gathering' in Sanskrit, epitomizes their dedication to environmental sustainability. Through Avacayam, unused temple flowers are repurposed into vibrant Holi colors, traditional rangolis, potpourri, and incense sticks. This initiative not only promotes eco-consciousness but also provides valuable training and income opportunities for differently-abled individuals, empowering them at every step of the process.
The genesis of Avacayam was humble and unassuming. Initially, a young man tasked with disposing of temple garlands would leave them in front of Prabhat's premises instead of discarding them in the Yamuna river. Intrigued by the sight of the decaying flowers, Prabhat's trainees and workers approached the temple priest for permission to handle the disposal themselves, thus laying the foundation for the Avacayam initiative.
Heading the Avacayam training team is Suresh Tomar, a visionary with over 12 years of experience. Despite his visual impairment, Dheeraj serves as the Master Agarbatti Trainer, while Mukesh, despite physical disabilities, coordinates necessary documentation for the training course. These individuals infuse every packet of skin-safe colors with love, a gesture honored and celebrated by Kama Ayurveda.
As we celebrate Holi, we invite you to immerse yourself in Kama's nourishing goodness. Enjoy the handmade Avacayam colors with loved ones, and join us in spreading the message of a kinder, more wholesome Holi.
In addition to this heartwarming initiative, it's worth noting that colors for Holi are meticulously crafted, with yellow made from a blend of genda, haldi, while orange hues are derived from variations of genda. Green tones are obtained from mehendi leaves and neem trees, with added starch for volume, and rose red hues are created using roses and starch. The flower-making process involves collecting dried flowers from temples, cutting out the petals, and storing them until October, when the conversion process begins. Nearly everything, except for the grinding machine, is hand-processed to create employment opportunities for as many people as possible.
Moreover, the colors have a 5-year expiry date due to their all-natural composition, and the natural insect-repellent properties of genda ensure their longevity. Employees involved in the Avacayam initiative receive paid employment, training, and lunch, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
This Holi, let's celebrate not only the vibrant colors and joyous festivities but also the spirit of empowerment and sustainability embodied by initiatives like Avacayam.