Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans For us, social value isn't a trendy buzzword; it's the foundational principle that shapes everything we do. It's about recognizing that our work has a ripple effect, impacting not just the products we create, but the lives of our incredible team and the broader community we're a part of, right here in Bengaluru. So, what does this look like on the ground, day in and day out? It starts with our amazing team of artisans. We've consciously built an inclusive environment where talent from all walks of life is not only welcomed but celebrated. This isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about recognizing the unique skills and perspectives that each individual brings to the table. Creating Social Value Through Our Team: Fair Wages and Dignified Work: For us, it's non-negotiable. We believe in providing fair compensation and respectful working conditions that empower our artisans and enable them to build secure futures for themselves and their families. This is the bedrock of the social value we create. Investing in Growth and Skills: Our studio isn't just a place of production; it's a space for learning and development. We actively invest in training our artisans, helping them hone their existing skills and acquire new ones. This not only enhances their craftsmanship but also increases their long-term employability and personal growth. Fostering a Sense of Belonging: We've intentionally cultivated a supportive and collaborative atmosphere within our studio. It's a place where artisans feel valued, respected, and connected. This strong internal community fosters trust and allows for the sharing of knowledge and mutual support – creating social value from within. Importantly, the fair earnings our artisans receive directly contribute to a greater sense of inclusion and stability within their own homes. Their ability to provide for their families and invest in their future strengthens their standing and voice within their households, fostering a more equitable and secure environment at home. This positive impact at the family level radiates outwards, further enriching our community. Breaking Down Barriers, Building Bridges: By actively seeking out and employing individuals from diverse backgrounds, we're contributing to a more inclusive society right here in Bangalore. Our studio becomes a microcosm of the kind of interconnected community we envision. Essentially, at Diya Innovations, the creation of social value isn't an afterthought; it's woven into the very fabric of our operations. It begins with how we treat our team, the opportunities we provide, and the inclusive culture we nurture within our Bangalore studio. We believe that by prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of our artisans, we're laying the strongest foundation for positive impact that extends far beyond the beautiful products they create. And that's just the beginning of the story... because, as we'll explore, you, our customers, become crucial partners in amplifying Read Full Testimonial

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Bhagyaraj joined the founding team of Diya Innovations in 2013. His strength is his ability to follow instructions and complete tasks with perfection. Bhagya is one of the veterans of the candle making team and he knows every step of the process.  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 

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Mallige, May and the Magic of JasmineThe air in Bengaluru this May, as it has for countless years, carries a special kind of magic. It's a sweetness that's both delicate and intoxicating, a fragrance that weaves its way through both bustling local markets and quiet home gardens alike. This is the unmistakable perfume of Mallige, our beloved Jasmine, a flower so deeply entwined with the spirit of this city, particularly during the vibrant wedding season that blossoms alongside it in May. For a Bengaluru bride in this wedding season, Mallige isn't just a flower; it's an essential adornment. Imagine the scene: the soft glow of the wedding mandap, the vibrant hues of silk sarees, and amidst it all, the bride, her hair adorned with strings upon strings of pristine white jasmine buds and blossoms. Each tiny flower, perfectly formed and intensely fragrant, adds an ethereal beauty to her presence. The scent that emanates is a subtle yet powerful statement – of purity, of auspicious beginnings, and of a deep connection to tradition. The delicate blooms symbolize beauty, serenity, and good fortune for the journey ahead. A touch of Bengaluru for your special day. Give your guests a lasting memory of your celebration with our fragrant soy wax candle. The delicate, intoxicating scent of jasmine will transport them back to the joy of your wedding, long after the day is done. The allure of Mallige extends far beyond the wedding mandap of Bengaluru. This unassuming white flower, with its seemingly simple form, holds a fragrance so rich and complex that it has captivated perfumers for centuries. Its essence, extracted with painstaking care, forms the heart of some of the world's most iconic and luxurious perfumes. Inspired by this very magic, our collection of scented soy candles and cupboard fragrance tablets seeks to capture the essence of jasmine. We aim to bring that same sense of delicate richness, that whisper of Bangalore's May air, into your homes and everyday moments. Imagine lighting our "Blossom Freshness" hand poured soy wax candle in a jar, its gentle fragrance filling your space with the same serene beauty that adorns a bride on her special day. Or placing our Blossom Freshness fragrance tablet in your cupboard, allowing the subtle sweetness to infuse your clothes with a touch of Bangalore's fragrant soul. This fragrance tablet, inspired by the iconic jasmine of Bengaluru weddings, is the perfect way to thank your guests and fill their homes with the auspicious scent of new beginnings.” This May, as the city celebrates new beginnings and the air is thick with the perfume of Mallige, we invite you to embrace this timeless fragrance. Whether it's the memory of a beautiful bride, the inspiration for a world-renowned perfume, or the simple joy of its delicate sweetness, Mallige holds a special place in our Read Full Testimonial