From Fascination To Dedication - The Triumphant Saga Of A Seashell Handicraft Artisan In Goa

The beauty of shells and shell art amazes everyone. It is one of the intriguing forms of art found across the world. Shell art is a cottage industry in India and there are numerous people whose livelihood entirely depends on it. In the course, they often don't get appreciated for their work, and we want to make sure that their stories reach people.

Here is the journey of one such devoted artisan, Chandrika.

Chandrika, who originally hails from the northern part of Madhya Pradesh in India, came to Goa in 1959 with her husband and six children to make a living as there was an acute drought in the village. The following year, due to their need to sustain their family, her husband had to leave them in order to join the Indian Army as they were also promised financial aid by the government to take care of their family.

With her husband away and no sign of him returning soon as that was the period with a lot of uncertainties and the possibility that a war could break out between India and the Portuguese governed Goan territory, she had to make ends meet to take care of all her children. She began working as a domestic help at some of the neighbouring affluent families to make ends meet. She would spend time with her children at the nearby beach and was fascinated by the beautiful seashells that she found there. She brought the adorable seashells back home and made toys out of them for her children. She also made some artsy shell encrusted mirrors and flower vases out of them. Slowly, word spread in the neighbourhood about her gift of shell craft. Some of the affluent noble families asked her to make these shell handicrafts for them. This served two purposes for her - as a source of income to run her family as well as a means to pursue her passion. And, thus began the humble journey.

It was difficult during the start, given that she was a newcomer in the area of shells and was also in a place distant from her own. Despite these factors, she worked hard and her craft rose to great heights. She is 96 years old today, and is proud to have successfully completed 40 years in this field.

Chandrika is a professional in what she does, and produces a variety of items ranging from accessories like necklaces, earrings, to lampshades, souvenirs and even chandeliers. She has around 16 women working under her guidance, who are also dedicated to shell art. They make the items by using shells, sand and homemade glue that involves 2-3 stages for completion. Major items require a couple of weeks to get completed, while smaller items are prepared within a few days.

Their products are available for sale at the local markets, co-operative societies, fairs and exhibitions. Chandrika says that she is completely dependent on what she earns from selling shell art. This is her passion, and she has been able to achieve her goals due to great support from her family.

She currently lives in North Goa. She enjoys her life that is surrounded with shells and is young at heart. Her story is very inspiring and tells us that it is never impossible to achieve your dreams if you're truly committed to it and most importantly, enjoy the work that you do.