At The Alt School, Chennai, what began as a simple Gullak-making session brought together a room full of children — each different in age, interests, and expression. The space was alive with curiosity, colour, and a kind of energy only children bring — unfiltered and full of possibility.
Gullak painting at Alt School Chennai
More Than a Painting Activity
Through Goonj’s School to School initiative, the idea behind the Goonj Kee Gullak was shared not as an activity, but as a way to connect. Children began to see their Gullaks as something that would carry a purpose. Some took their time perfecting patterns, like Sreenidhi with her detailed mandala work. Others tried, erased, and started again—finding their own way through the process.
Colours, creativity and imagination
Seeing Beyond Their Own Space
What began as a painting activity slowly turned into something more. For many of the children, it was the first time they thought about other children their age in villages — equally talented — who could learn with dignity with their unused resources. Their thinking gently moved beyond their own space. Through a small act and shared effort, they began to connect with someone else’s value and dignity as well.
Gullaks painted by children
About Goonj
Goonj’s menstrual wellbeing work across India connects urban textile surplus to become a resource for menstrual wellbeing of women and other menstruators in rural India. Our focus is on enabling participation with dignity as we strongly believe that development begins when people engage with their own challenges using their own effort, strengthened by shared resources.
Be a Stakeholder in our Work
Start where you are. Organise a collection drive. Begin a Goonj kee Gullak. Volunteer. Intern. Or stay connected through the monthly newsletter. Many ways to engage. One choice to make — take action.
More on www.goonj.org | Write to [email protected]
