Saves nine? In the case of the Silai Kendra ladies, it saved a lot of lives! The hundreds of masks they stitched during the lockdown period were shipped to various parts of the country, providing invaluable protection for frontline workers. On December 30, 2020, they were justly rewarded when local MLA Rina Kashyap visited the ashram, gifting them sewing machines and certificates sponsored by the ashram.

Ms. Kashyap praised their hard work and contribution, speaking about the role of women in society. “Women empowerment is the way forward for our country,” she said in a short speech. “We must respect and acknowledge the work they do.”

She also inaugurated the new ATM on the premises before being given a tour of the ashram. Swamiji met with her shortly, gracefully bestowing upon her a shawl and a Himachali cap. He also met the ladies of the Silai Kendra, praising them for their efforts.

The happy occasion saw ashram residents, villagers, and families of the Silai Kendra ladies attending. The event drew to a suitable close with a celebratory distribution of halwa as prasadam (sacred food) from the ashram kitchen.