Mentally recovered patients at Nagpur’s Regional Mental Hospital craft beautiful diyas under ‘Udaan’ project
Diwali is known as the festival of light, joy, and creativity. But this year, some lamps are glowing not just with light — they are glowing with hope and resilience. The diyas crafted under the ‘Udaan’ project of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur have become a symbol of healing and self-reliance for patients who have recovered from mental illness.
Launched to help rehabilitated patients become independent, the ‘Udaan’ project has presented an inspiring story this Diwali. Patients have painted and decorated around 1,700 diyas, of which 1,130 have already been sold — some even reaching buyers as far as the United States.
The hospital’s day-care centre, run under the project, provides training in skills like stitching, broom-making, leaf-plate crafting, jewellery, farming, and decorative diya art. Beyond therapy, these activities boost confidence and creativity. The diyas, painted in acrylic and oil colours, reflect simplicity, warmth, and an inner beauty that touches hearts.
Each diya tells a story — not just of art, but of determination, recovery, and reintegration into society. The overwhelming public response has shown a growing social acceptance and empathy for mental health survivors.
Guided by Medical Superintendent Dr. Satish Humne, and supported by occupational therapist Dr. Reena Khurpudi and coordinator Priya Sonawane, the initiative illuminates a new path of rehabilitation and inclusion — proving that light shines brightest when kindled by hope.
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