
Kudumbashree to release book of writings by NHG members
The Ernakulam District Kudumbashree Mission is set to release a book titled Samavayana, a compilation of 102 writings by members of its neighbourhood groups (NHG) centred on gender equality and gender justice, on next year's International Women's Day, March 8.
The idea is to include at least one entry from each of the 102 community development societies (CDSs) in the district. Preliminary work on the initiative was launched on Reading Day, observed on Thursday (June 19, 2025).
'We sent an intimation about the project to all 102 CDSs, and it was included in their respective Reading Day programmes. The CDSs will now disseminate the information among NHG members. The district mission will act as a facilitator to encourage and awaken the creative spirit hidden among them,' said T.M. Rajeena, district mission coordinator, Ernakulam.
Reading and writing-related sessions will be held at the NHG level during which members will be equipped with the necessary skills. Feedback from NHG members will also be considered as the project progresses. The possibility of involving writers to guide members in expressing their thoughts more effectively may be explored at a later stage.
'This is not a project bound by any particular format or genre. Contributions could be short stories, poems, personal reflections or experiences, or even original inspirational couplets. They may write about instances where they faced gender discrimination or injustice and how they overcame it. The whole idea is to spark their creative potential and help them express it through words,' said Ms. Rajeena.
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