Empowering Women Through Coconut Shell Crafts: The Inspiring Story of S Jeya Cruz.
In 2014, Arokia Anet of Kanyakumari, India, found herself in a dire financial situation after the passing of her husband, left with the responsibility of raising two children alone. To make ends meet, she worked as a construction labourer, often without a steady income. However, her life took a positive turn in 2019 when she discovered S Jeya Cruz, a visionary entrepreneur hiring workers for his handicraft company specialising in transforming coconut shells into eco-friendly products. Today, Arokia earns a fixed monthly income of Rs 4,000 and has newfound hope for a better future for her children.
Jeya Cruz, inspired by his grandfather’s craftwork with tortoise shells, began his journey in the art and craft industry. After a government ban on tortoise shell crafts in 1972, Jeya’s family transitioned to working with seashells. Drawing from his creative roots, Jeya founded SV Handicrafts in 1977, imparting his skills to women from low-income groups in coastal communities, aiming to empower them and revive the age-old practice.
Kanyakumari, known for its picturesque sunrise and sunset, has long relied on coconut shells for livelihood. Jeya recognizes the beauty and functionality of these shells, which possess a variety of thickness, colour, and shine. While coconut shells are traditionally used for utility items like spoons, Jeya’s team carves intricate jewellery pieces, hair clips, earrings, necklaces, soup bowls, tea cups, juice cups, pickle jars, and spoons from this versatile material.
The process begins with collecting coconut shells, which are then skillfully slit and carved to create stunning designs without the use of artificial paints. The upper part, with its thickness and unique spots, is used for jewellery, while the lower part, slightly thinner, is transformed into kitchenware. The waste generated during the production of kitchenware is ingeniously repurposed into smaller jewelry items. Each product reflects the skill and dedication of the women workers, with teacups requiring a whole coconut shell and pendants demanding at least three coconut shells.
Jeya’s craftsmanship has gained recognition, earning him numerous awards from the Tamil Nadu and Haryana governments, as well as the national Best Master Craftsman Award 2016 from the Union Ministry of Agriculture. However, behind the accolades, Jeya faces challenges in sustaining his business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused significant financial losses. Despite the difficulties, his passion, belief in the usefulness of the products, and the employment opportunities they provide for disadvantaged women keep him motivated. Jeya continues to work tirelessly, even taking up part-time real estate work to support his venture and ensure regular monthly salaries for his team.
As Jeya dreams of a flourishing future for this craft, he envisions Kanyakumari becoming a hotspot for coconut shell crafts. Through his dedication, talent, and the commitment of the women workers, a legacy is being built, providing sustainable livelihoods and empowering the coastal communities. Together, they are transforming coconut shells into unique, eco-friendly creations and carving a path towards a brighter future.
