South Tripura district's Jolaibari is home to an inspiring woman whose story is as earthy and enduring as the clay she works with.

Lakshmi Rudra Pal, now an SHG Didi, was once a government school teacher (10323). But life took a difficult turn when her teaching job was cancelled, shattering the family’s only source of livelihood and plunging her into uncertainty.

At this crossroads, Lakshmi chose resilience over despair. She became associated with the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) and joined a Self-Help Group 'Sagata Mahila Dal. 

On March 24, last year, she began her new chapter. TRLM’s special training led her back to the roots of her heritage—crafting clay and terracotta art, skills that had been passed down through generations.

This year’s Lakshmi Puja marks a new milestone in her journey. With dedication and love, Lakshmi Didi has prepared over a thousand clay idols of Goddess Lakshmi.

Her creations are no longer confined to South Tripura—they are finding their way to markets beyond the district, carrying with them the fragrance of tradition and the spirit of artistry.

Each idol she shapes is more than just clay. It is a symbol of her indomitable spirit, the revival of heritage, and the triumph of self-reliance.