A Grandmother’s Strength Amidst Earthquake Aftermath
Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand – In a region often overlooked in mainstream narratives, Meena Devi’s story echoes the quiet endurance of thousands living in the shadows of disasters. Years ago, Meena lost her daughter in a massive earthquake. The same calamity left her granddaughter, Pooja, physically disabled.
Now 16, Pooja relies entirely on her aging grandmother. With limited opportunities and no steady income, Meena does what she can — each day spent searching for daily-wage work that rarely comes.
“Pooja started menstruating last year. I just did not know what to do. I made pads from my old dupattas, but they caused rashes. I remember my own pain, barely being able to walk during my periods,” Meena recalls.
Not Just a Piece of Cloth — A Lifeline of Dignity
In many remote parts of India, menstruation still carries stigma, and access to safe menstrual hygiene remains a luxury. For Meena, this silence was the heaviest burden. But Goonj’s intervention through the Not-Just-a-Piece-of-Cloth initiative became a turning point.
By reaching out with — reusable cloth pads — and open conversations facilitated by Goonj volunteers, Meena found more than just supplies; she found language, confidence, and community.
“This is the first time someone has spoken to me about menstruation,” says Pooja softly, her voice filled with both shyness and relief. “I wish we could all speak and share our menstrual problems freely.”
A Model of People-Led Change in Menstrual Health
In Pooja and Meena’s story, we see changemakers in the making. When solutions come wrapped in respect, conversation, and community, they lead to sustainable change.
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
