Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Have you ever walked into a space and instantly felt a surge of warmth and creativity? That's the magic of the Diya Happiness Store, now open and inviting you to experience something truly special. More than just a store, it's a vibrant showcase of talent, a testament to the power of human potential, and a celebration of community right here in Bengaluru. A Symphony of Skills, A Tapestry of Talent Imagine a place where every handcrafted item tells a story, where every creation is infused with dedication and love. At the Diya Happiness Store, our incredible team, including artisans with intellectual challenges, pour their heart and soul into crafting unique treasures. From intricate screen-printed designs to delectable handmade chocolates, from charming stationery to stunning home décor, each piece is a masterpiece of meticulous detail and genuine passion. Empowerment Woven into Every Thread We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to shine. For individuals with special needs, finding meaningful work can be a challenge in traditional job markets. But here, at the Happiness Store, we've created a supportive haven where skills are nurtured, confidence blossoms, and dreams take flight. Through hands-on creation, our artisans not only earn a fair wage but also experience the profound satisfaction of contributing their unique talents to the world. Each handcrafted candle, each beautifully designed bag, is a symbol of empowerment, a testament to the human spirit's boundless capacity for creativity. Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers The Happiness Store is more than just a place to shop; it's a bridge connecting our community, fostering understanding, and challenging stereotypes. When you step inside, you're not just a customer; you're a part of a movement. You'll have the chance to meet our talented artisans, witness their skills firsthand, and experience the joy of supporting a truly inclusive initiative. Collaborating for Change, Creating Lasting Impact We're passionate about creating lasting change, which is why we collaborate with other social enterprises to expand our mission. Together, we're building a world where everyone has the opportunity to lead an independent and fulfilling life. Don't Miss Out on This Month's Treasures! This month, we're spotlighting our stunning Cube Tissue Box Holder, a perfect blend of functionality and artistry. But that's just a glimpse of the many wonders awaiting you at the Happiness Store. Join Us on This Journey of Joy and Empowerment! We invite you to visit the Diya Happiness Store in Bengaluru and experience the magic for yourself. Discover the beauty of handcrafted creations, witness the power of inclusivity, and become a part of a community that celebrates the extraordinary in everyone. Find us at our production studio - Diya Innovations, #112/147, Chikatayappa Reddy Layout, Chelkere, Kalyannagar Bangalore 560043 Let's create a happier, more inclusive Bengaluru together!

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Down syndrome. You've likely heard the term, but do you truly understand what it means? Beyond the basic facts, there's a story of resilience, strength, and the unique beauty that comes with a different genetic makeup. Let's delve deeper and shed some light on this fascinating condition. What is Down Syndrome? Think of a recipe for a cake. Usually, you follow the exact measurements for each ingredient. But with Down syndrome, it's like adding an extra pinch of one ingredient to the recipe. It might change the texture and flavour slightly, but it can still be a delicious cake. Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This extra genetic material, like that extra pinch of ingredient, leads to the characteristic features and developmental differences associated with the condition. Named after Dr. John Langdon Down, who first described it in 1866, Down syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in 700 births worldwide. While the exact cause of the extra chromosome is still unknown, it is primarily due to a random error in cell division called nondisjunction. Maternal age is a known factor that increases the likelihood. The Genetic Twist: Trisomy 21 and Beyond The most common type, Trisomy 21, accounts for 95% of cases. Here, every cell in the body has that extra copy of chromosome 21. But there's more to the story. Mosaic Down Syndrome is a rarer form where only some cells have the extra chromosome. This often leads to milder characteristics as not all cells are affected. Finally, Translocation Down Syndrome occurs when a part of chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome. While it's a smaller percentage of cases, it's significant because it can be inherited. A parent can be a carrier of a balanced translocation, meaning they have the rearranged genetic material but no extra chromosome 21, and thus no features of Down syndrome. Beyond the Physical: Celebrating Individuality We often focus on the physical characteristics – the flattened facial profile, the upward slant of the eyes, the single palmar crease. While these are common, it's crucial to remember that individuals with Down syndrome are just that: individuals. They are as diverse as anyone else, with their own unique personalities, talents, and dreams. Bhuvana : Personality: Nurturing: To emphasize her warm, loving, and caring nature. Talent: Precision: Points to her accuracy and attention to detail in her work. Dreams: Connection: Her love for prayer and her empathetic nature, hinting at a dream of deep spiritual connection and meaningful relationships. Prithvi Babu: Dancer, Artist, Bag and box maker The Journey of Development: Developmentally, individuals with Down syndrome may learn at a different pace. Intellectual development may vary, ranging from mild to moderate. Speech and language development may be delayed, and motor skills might take longer to master. Read Full Testimonial

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Carolyn passed away in 2007. In her memory, the ‘Chocolyn’ Chocolate Project was established at Diya, funded by the donations that her family sought from friends and family who attended her funeral. By 2013, it grew into one of the business units of the production studio at Diya Innovations. How Chocolyn came to be? Carolyn, one of Diya Foundation’s first three students, graced the unit with the most beautiful, shy smile during her days there in the early 2000s. Adorned in carefully coordinated attire and accessories, she would eagerly await the auto, anticipating the day’s adventures. Cherished memories of Carolyn revolve around her love for food and sweets. On her own birthday, when asked which Diya product she’d like as a gift, she’d politely decline every suggestion. But her entire face would light up with joy at the mere mention of a Cadbury chocolate. Carolyn’s diligence shone through her work. She excelled at sanding the recycled rolls, transforming them into creative pen stands. She approached each responsibility with enthusiasm and found joy in her craft. Carolyn passed away in 2007. In her memory, the ‘Chocolyn’ Chocolate Project was established at Diya, funded by the donations that her family sought from friends and family who attended her funeral. By 2013, it grew into one of the business units of the production studio at Diya Innovations. Her family’s unwavering support of Chocolyn and Diya is forever etched in our hearts! What the Diya chocolatiers conjure up Our team creates chocolates in all shapes and sizes, customised for any family occasion or festive season. Come Easter, eggs in white chocolate and milk chocolate, bunnies and bird nests in dark chocolate are carefully made. Delicately speckled and striped eggs add to the colour and festivity of Easter gifting The Christmas season sees a range of baubles, Santas, wreaths and candy canes crafted in chocolate, that make perfect gifts for the season. Wedding giveaways, chocolate to commemorate important days at work or in the family are all part of our portfolio. Chocolate has made up a large part of our corporate Diwali gifting and the chocolate slabs and squares are generously filled with roasted dry fruit and dressed in festive sleeves to fill the festive hampers gifted to employees and clients. What makes handmade chocolates truly special is the personal touch of the artisan. Our chocolatiers take great pride in the small-batch production of their confections, ensuring that each piece is individually crafted. This care and attention to detail are reflected in the final product, making our handmade chocolates a thoughtful gift, a luxurious treat, and a special indulgence. A thoughtfully curated diwali hamper Rekha wrapping chocolates

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans We would like to introduce you to two very important members of our team who elevate what we offer our clients, through their incredible embroidery skills. Hand embroidery possesses an unequalled charm. A simple flower and stem in the corner of a hanky lifts the piece from ordinary to delicately beautiful. The sometimes uneven running stitch or 'kantha' stitch can elevate absolutely any fabric from 0 to a 100 on a simple-chic scale. It’s this transformative power we celebrate ! Meet Mouly apprentice at a vintage car service station by day, master  embroiderer by night Mouly, is a tall, lanky young man, with a hearing and speech impairment. But nothing stops him from creating art masterpieces. He draws, paints and embroiders with passion. His day job is apprenticing at a vintage car service station, where he helps repair some of Bangalore’s beautiful vintage cars that come in for routine repairs. We outsource embroidery onto our ‘lavender bags’ to him, whenever a wedding giveaway order comes in. He works with precision and speed and ensures a delighted client. Ayesha loves the rigour and monotony of the kantha stitch makes magic by running the stitch over neatly drawn patterns Ayesha's embroidery skills were discovered more recently. A chance admittance to an embroidery learning session at Diya Foundation, in between her candle making day, revealed a latent talent. She loved the rigour and monotony of the kantha stitch and soon discovered she could make magic by running the stitch over neatly drawn patterns. She was taught the chain stitch and satin stitch and fell in love with those  too, creating pretty floral patches. She'd carry her work home, and soon there were worried calls from her mother about her sleeping only after a design was complete. The joy and enthusiasm with which she works on her patches is infectious and she has her colleagues Rekha and Bhuvana wanting in. When they have a free afternoon, she patiently teaches them Kantha and watching that is a treat! Do visit us at Diya Innovations, to meet the team and see the products crafted by them. Your patronage encourages our artisans to learn more and do better! It also helps them earn better and aspire to better futures.

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans In today's fast-paced business world, showing appreciation to your employees is more important than ever. However, finding the perfect gift for each team member can be time-consuming and challenging. That's where Diya's e-Celebrations cards come in, offering an innovative solution that simplifies your gifting process while maximizing social impact. e-Celebrations Cards by Diya makes gifting at scale easy. No more collecting shipping addresses. The Power of Choice Our co-branded e-Celebrations cards revolutionize corporate gifting by putting the power of choice in your employees' hands. Here's how it works: You choose a budget and customize the e-card with your company branding and personalized message. Your team members receive the e-card and browse our extensive online collection of gifts. Each employee selects their perfect gift within the allocated budget. We handle the rest – processing, shipping, and delivery. A social impact gifting platform that lets recipients pick their favorite gift. Reward employees and clients with meaningful gifts Benefits for Your Business 1. Eliminate Hassle Say goodbye to the time-consuming process of selecting individual gifts and managing distribution. Our streamlined system takes care of everything, freeing up your valuable time for other important tasks. 2. Ensure Satisfaction With e-Celebrations cards, you're guaranteed that each team member receives a gift they truly want. This personal touch shows that you value their individuality and preferences. 3. Strengthen Your Brand Each e-card features your company's branding and a custom message, reinforcing your corporate identity and values with every gift given. 4. Maximize Social Impact By partnering with Diya, you're not just giving gifts – you're contributing to a greater cause. Our commitment to social responsibility means your gifting choices have a positive impact beyond your organization. Ready to transform your corporate gifting strategy? Contact us today to learn more about how e-Celebrations cards can work for your organization.

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans A Masterclass in Operations, Logistics, and Teamwork: As the festive season approaches, let's reflect on the profound impact of shopping locally. When we choose local businesses, we're not just making a purchase - we're nurturing the very fabric of our community. Every year around Diwali, I step away from my corporate job to assist with the surge in orders at Diya Innovations. This annual tradition has provided me with invaluable insights into operations, logistics, and supply chain management in low tech environments. The challenge of handling a 10-fold increase in production is significant in any setting, but even more so when your team primarily consists of differently-abled individuals. However, the complexities involved and successes achieved are what make this experience so rewarding. Key Challenges Logistics: Handling orders during the Diwali season means dealing with multiple products—each requiring different materials, handling, and assembly processes. Take, for instance, a typical order as seen in the picture containing 10 products such as a wooden tray, a decorative T-light holder, coasters, terracotta diyas, chocolates, a brass container, a wooden toy, and more. 50% of the products are manufactured from scratch at Diya while the rest are sourced, assembled, and packaged here. Managing the logistics involves: Ordering raw materials in bulk at best rates while ensuring they arrive on time. Checking for quality and quantity discrepancies in every delivery for outsourced products. Processing items like chocolates, which need to be melted, refrigerated, molded, and packed under strict temperature controls. Similarly, dry fruits need to be precisely weighed as per the assortment into 100 gms packets and kept safe from pests. Additionally, anything involving custom branding must be approved by clients to avoid diluting their messaging.as well as securing approvals for printed items to ensure accurate client branding. Coordinating multiple components per order. With 20+ festive orders and about 10 products per order, each with multiple parts, that means tracking roughly 400 unique line items simultaneously. Time and Space Management: During peak production, space becomes a premium. There is the need for storage space for raw and packing materials, dedicated production areas, and room for packaging and final assembly. And on top of this , each type of product and each stage of production requires a diverse set of conditions  For perishable items like chocolates and dry fruits, we also have to ensure conditions are safe from pests. Additionally, items that require painting, such as wood products, need well-ventilated areas for drying.  The workspace has to accommodate chocolate production  that needs cooling, woodwork that requires ventilation, and teams that need unobstructed access, especially as many staff members use wheelchairs. The additional complication is that we share our space with Diya Foundation, which runs skill training programs for around 40 students. Their activities cannot be disrupted, adding another layer of complexity to managing Read Full Testimonial

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans As Teacher's Day approaches, we're reminded of the profound impact educators have on our lives - not just in childhood, but throughout our journey. They're instructors, mentors, guides, and often the first to recognize our hidden talents. At Diya, we understand this influence deeply and personally. Our inclusive team of artisans, many facing intellectual challenges, are living testaments to the power of great teaching and mentorship. These talented individuals were once students whose potential might have been overlooked. Thanks to perceptive educators who saw their strengths and nurtured their abilities, they've blossomed into skilled craftspeople, creating beautiful gifts that touch hearts and homes. The journey of learning and growth however, doesn't end with formal education. As we navigate adulthood, we continue to encounter teachers in various forms - colleagues who share their expertise, supervisors who guide our professional development and community leaders who inspire us to grow. These mentors play a crucial role in shaping our adult lives, much like our childhood teachers did. Each handcrafted item in our gifting collection tells a story of transformation and ongoing mentorship. It represents a journey from the classroom where a teacher first spotted a spark of creativity, to the workshop where that spark has become a flame of artistry and independence, continuously fanned by the support and guidance of mentors. By choosing a gift from Diya, you're not just presenting a token of appreciation - you're completing a beautiful circle of empowerment and recognition. Our collection offers a range of thoughtful items, from elegant desk accessories to colorful home decor pieces. Each one is infused with gratitude – from us at Diya to you, and from you to your special teacher or mentor Give a gift that truly embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and mentorship – one that celebrates the role of teachers and mentors in unlocking potential and guiding personal growth. Choose a Diya creation and illuminate your teacher's or mentor's day with a light they once ignited in others, and continue to nurture.

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans As the festive season approaches, let's reflect on the profound impact of shopping locally. When we choose local businesses, we're not just making a purchase - we're nurturing the very fabric of our community. "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller At Diya we've witnessed the beauty of local partnerships firsthand. Amogh and PADA (NGOs in Bangalore, working with people with intellectual disabilities) who supply us with hand painted diyas, Lal's family business in Shivajinagar - our trusted partners for die-cutting and punching for over a decade, Palzani of Philip Wood - our go-to woodworking wizard, Vinod from SM Hardware who provides us the perfect adhesive, Tilak from SV Graphics bringing our designs to life, Mazz from New Delux painting our world, Harish from Komal Enterprises supplying us with quality cottons at RC Puram, Jeet and his dad from Bharath Trading providing the finest dry fruits and Vasu from DTDC, ensuring our creations reach far and wide. These aren't just business relationships - they're the heartbeat of our company and through them we help build local employment especially of people from the lesser served communities. “For every $100 spent locally, $68 stays in our community.” That's double the impact of large chain stores! When our partners , Vasu and Jeet sit with us to strategize before Diwali and reflect afterwards, we're reminded that we're all in this together. A finding by Business Alliance for Local Living Economies, a non-profit based out of the US, that advocates building strong local economies claims that “For every $100 spent locally, $68 stays in our community.” That's double the impact of large chain stores!  So we say to big businesses in our community: join us in this beautiful cycle of mutual growth and support. This festive season, let's celebrate the power of local connections.  Let us know if we can help you with your gifting needs this season. Visit us at our production studio in Kalyan Nagar Bangalore, or check out our website.

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans Take a peek at our newest project - a line of eco-friendly accessories made from  The Good Felt, a material developed from textile waste.  The Journey of Recycled Felt Recycled felt starts its life as a collection of unwanted fabrics, sourced from old garments, upholstery, and industrial textile scraps. These materials are cleaned, shredded, and processed to create a new, durable felt fabric. This process not only diverts waste from landfills but also conserves resources by reducing the need for virgin materials. We at Diya Innovations are thrilled to be working on this material with a focus on combining sustainability with style. Our collection will include everything from work aids to home decor, all crafted with care and with an added flair from our artisans. Transforming Waste into Wonder: Creating New Products from Recycled Felt The Creative Process Every great product begins with an idea. Designers draw inspiration from various sources—nature, art, and everyday objects—to conceptualize unique and functional items. The ideas are sketched out and sent to our tailoring unit for the next stage. Cutting and Shaping: Once the pattern is finalized, the felt is carefully cut and sewn. When working with brand new products, there are many returns to the drawing board to refine or re-size until we get the right fit Perfect for holding your keys and daily essentials Contrasting Notebook Cover & Pen Case Assembly and Detailing: After the cut pieces are assembled, they are handed over to our craftspeople who embellish them with handstitching or embroidery for added aesthetic appeal. Finishing Touches: The final step involves testing the prototypes for stitch quality, ease of use and ability to withstand frequent use and multiple washings. Graceful in Grey : Laptop Cover and Charger Pouch Perfect for holding your keys and daily essentials While we feel the possibilities with recycled felt are endless, we will soon be launching the first line of sustainable felt products. By choosing products made from recycled materials, we contribute to a circular economy, reduce our environmental footprint, and inspire others to do the same. So next time you're in the market for a new accessory, or gift, consider the beauty and benefits of recycled felt—where waste is transformed into wonder.

Beyond the Chromosome: Celebrating the Remarkable Gifts of Our Down Syndrome Artisans In today's dynamic work environment, fostering a positive company culture is more crucial than ever. One effective strategy to enhance employee morale, improve team cohesion, and express appreciation is through thoughtful and socially conscious employee gifting. A well-executed gifting strategy not only makes your employees feel valued and recognized but also contributes to building a more equitable world. Gifting Magic: Unleashing Workplace Positivity Boosts Morale and Motivation: Recognizing employees' hard work and achievements with thoughtful gifts significantly boosts their morale and motivation. Appreciated employees are more likely to stay engaged and committed to their roles. Strengthens Team Relationships: Gifting helps foster a sense of camaraderie and unity within teams. Whether celebrating team successes or individual milestones, these shared moments enhance workplace relationships. Enhances Company Culture: A culture of appreciation contributes to a positive and inclusive work environment. When employees see their contributions valued, it creates a supportive atmosphere that can attract and retain top talent. Improves Employee Retention: Employees who feel valued are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere. Regular acknowledgment of their efforts through gifts can improve retention rates and reduce turnover costs. Encourages Productivity: Knowing that their efforts will be recognized and rewarded motivates employees to maintain high levels of productivity. Nailing the perfect gift On the Gift Guru’s checklist: Personalization: Tailor gifts to recipients' interests and preferences. Practicality: Choose useful items that enhance work or personal life. Company Values Alignment: Select gifts that reflect your organization's ethos. Occasion-Specific: Recognize various milestones with appropriate gifts. Set of notebook, pen, coaster and paper bag. Collapsible phone holder and glass candle in a stand. Tailored Gifts for Every Workplace Event: Welcome Gifts: Customized kits with company-branded items like notebooks, pens, mugs, and coasters for the workspace. Recognition Gifts: Wooden desktop calendars or organizer trays as daily reminders of appreciation. Holiday Gifts: Thoughtfully prepared sets combining edible goodies with candles and candle holders in festive packaging. Work Anniversary Gifts: Handcrafted decor, desk accessories, personalized awards, eco-friendly items, and professional organizers that commemorate years of service Birthday Gifts: A thoughtful card and a personalized, handmade gift is valued more than a gift voucher. Consider a hamper with a combination of chocolate and wellness treats. Wellness Gifts: An annual gift set of relaxation items, such as candles and home-spa kits, is a great way to remind employees that the organization has their wellness in mind. The Impact of Buying Social Choosing socially conscious gifts amplifies the positive impact of your gifting strategy. Buying from social enterprises isn't just about acquiring products – it's an investment in communities, ethical practices, and sustainable development. These purchases create job opportunities for marginalized groups, fund important social programs, and promote environmentally friendly practices. By opting for social impact products in your employee gifting, you become part of a larger movement that prioritizes people and planet alongside profit. Your choice Read Full Testimonial