Author: Bihar Say | Amrita | In the heart of Bihar, where art and tradition thrive, Nirmala Devi shines as a beacon of perseverance and empowerment. Through her
In the heart of Bihar, where art and tradition thrive, Nirmala Devi shines as a beacon of perseverance and empowerment. Through her unwavering dedication to Sujni embroidery, she revived an almost forgotten art form, transforming not only her own life but the lives of countless women.
Born on August 15, 1947, in Bhusra village, Muzaffarpur District, Nirmala Devi was deeply influenced by the craftsmanship of her mother, who was skilled in Sujni embroidery. As a young girl, Nirmala absorbed the intricacies of the craft, inspired by her mother’s hands working the needle. Moreover, this early exposure planted the seeds for her lifelong passion to preserve and promote this traditional art.
In 1988, Nirmala Devi took it upon herself to revive Sujni embroidery. She realized the craft was fading into obscurity and needed immediate attention. With relentless determination, she not only revived it but also expanded its reach beyond Bihar. As a result, she founded the Bhusra Mahila Vikas Samiti, an organization aimed at empowering rural women through Sujni embroidery training. Over 1,000 women benefited from the initiative, gaining financial independence and learning valuable skills.
Nirmala Devi’s journey didn’t go unnoticed. In January 2025, she was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award. This recognition marked a pivotal moment in her life, acknowledging both her artistic brilliance and her work in empowering women through crafts.
Through her dedication, Nirmala Devi transformed Sujni art into a vehicle for women’s empowerment. Today, her legacy stands tall as a testament to the power of cultural preservation and the potential for art to bring about societal change. Not only has she revived a dying art form, but she has also provided women in rural areas with the tools to create a brighter future.
Nirmala Devi’s story is just one example of the rich tapestry of inspiring figures in Bihar. To read more about these remarkable stories, follow www.biharsay.com and become part of our 10k-strong global community!
