Bhopal, Mar 9: If one has passion, determination and will to succeed, then anything can be achieved in this world. This has been proved by women entrepreneurs of the State through the artistic works on display at 'Swayam Sidha Mela' organised at local Gohar Mahal on the occasion of International Woman's day. In this Mela, women associated with small scale industries of self-help groups have participated. A sale cum exhibition is going on in which beautifully crafted work of women artists is being displayed. This fair which started on March 8, would conclude on 17 March.

There are clothes with works of Zari and Zardozi on them. Not only this, Bell Metal of Betul, Incense sticks of Ujjain, Zari work of Bhopal, Paintings of Malwa region, Terracotta of Khajuri sadak, Carpets of Jhabua, White Metal of Mandsaur, Doll making work, Pearl work and many more can be seen in this fair. These women artists wish to transfer their traditional heritage to the young generation. City Mirror interviewed some women artists participating in this 'Mela'.

Working since last 60 years

Ganeshi Bai from Gwalior is an expert in Terracotta work. She has been honoured with State level award for her exemplary performance in this field. She says 'I have conducted some 100 workshops on Terracotta work. Even, Former President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma, appreciated my work'.

Only women artist of Ceramic work

Jyotsna Arawat from Gwalior is working in the field of Ceramic for the last Fourteen years. She is 20 trainees under her supervision and teaching the art of ceramics. She says 'I am the lone women ceramic artist in the state. I would be very happy if more women should come forward in this field'.

Helplessness turned into motivation

Meena Chauhan is working in the field of making leather purse since 30 years. She says 'My helplessness became motivation for me. I have earned name, fame and money from this work. I got my husband treated against Cancer. I am educating my children from the income earned from this profession. I dream my children to bring good name for their family and country.

Wish to transfer art to young generation

Madhuri Kunder from Rewa is an expert of Supari craft. She has received National Award for her work. She says 'Our work is some 75 years old but I joined this field after my marriage. I am very happy in this profession and wish to transfer this art to young generation'.

Learnt work from mother

Geeta Singh from Rewa says 'I have learnt the work of Paper Mache from my Mother. This is our family work and we have earned a lot of name from it. We are teaching this work to our children. They do it with interest. I have got many awards for my work'.

Tradition is not the source of income

Poornima Chaturvedi from Khandwa is an expert of Nimar Painting. She says ' This folk art is our tradition and we wish to flourish and transfer this art to new generation. This art is not our source of income but a tradition of our culture'.