Celebrating our ace candle maker and his mother!

Bhagya is the keeper of the moulds, the preparer of the wicks, the melter of the wax and pour-er of the fragrant liquid into the candle holders - in short, an expert in every step of the process. He can trouble shoot thanks to years of candle making experience. His contribution to the busy candle unit is undeniably significant! 

Bhagya joined Diya Foundation, about 17 years ago and in 2013, joined the production studio. In addition to his skills at candle making, he loves art and craft. He delights in drawing and painting and learning to work with new art media. He works hard to win the approval of his peers and team lead and aims to never disappoint…and he never does.

The youngest of 3 siblings, Bhagya’s mother is his biggest strength, advocate and champion! Her unwavering love is like the motherly love one sees so often among mothers of children with disabilities - they see beyond challenges, celebrate every tiny victory, and fuel an unyielding advocacy for their child. Bhagya’s mother too navigates complex systems, fights for understanding, and creates worlds of possibility where others might see limitations. 

Widowed early, she was left to bring up 3 young ones, two of whom were born with intellectual disabilities and severe health challenges. She toiled relentlessly as a cook for many years in the home of a family that helped her to feed, clothe and give the best education possible and early intervention to her children. The challenges life has thrown her over the years has left her unfazed. A strong faith, unwavering love and a positive attitude keep her going! As we celebrate mothers this month of May, here’s a loud shout out to one of the strongest mothers we know