Jyotsna Revives King Janak Era Sikki Art, Empowers Women, Seeks Museum Support

• Jyotsna, a 43-year-old artisan from Sitamarhi, has dedicated 32 years to reviving the ancient Sikki art, transforming riverbank grass into valuable artworks.
• She has empowered over 50 rural women, providing them with employment and financial independence through Sikki art, with many earning up to 15-20 thousand rupees monthly.
• Sikki art, historically linked to King Janak's era, has gained global recognition under Jyotsna's efforts, reaching America, Germany, Ethiopia, and Dubai.
• A National Award (2014) and State Award (2017) recipient, Jyotsna is also pursuing a PhD in Sikki art and is a 5th-generation artisan.
• She created a Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam portrait over three years and offers to donate it to a museum if the government provides adequate funding, advocating for Sitamarhi's recognition.

Why It Matters: Jyotsna's 32-year dedication revived ancient Sikki art, empowering women and gaining global recognition.