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In Madia, Kurma Ghar, A Period House For Menstruating Women

In the Madiya community, as with so many other communities across India, it is believed that when a girl or woman has her period or Kurma, she must live in a Kurma Ghar or period house, for the duration of the menstrual cycle. These Kurma ghars or period houses are made of mud and cow dung, and have no ventilation or light in them, with no water or washroom to use. The shame around periods is so prevalent that the women living in Kurma ghars hang their soiled cloth pads on the thatched roof of the Kurma ghar and refrain from washing them or drying them under sunlight which might act to disinfect them.

Clothes With A Conscience

Reports suggest that textile waste is the second-largest contributor to pollution in India. Fast fashion, toxic dyes, mass industrialization, and lack of repurposing have led to a massive increase in textile waste. Globally, around 10% of textile gets reused and the rest goes to landfills. This creates an enormous ripple effect on the environment, with a rise in landfills, emission of greenhouse gases, and climate change. The youth must focus on environmentally sustainable practices.

USHA and NDTV want to encourage and educate the masses on the need for sustainable fashion and repurposing. The 4-month initiative is about building conversations and awareness around repurposing textiles and sustainable fashion. The campaign will feature brands and individuals who are promoting recycling and upcycling, giving your clothes a conscience.