Empowering Families Through Crafts: Pallium India’s Palliative Care Products at Kanakakunnu Exhibition
In the heart of Kerala, where compassion meets creativity, Pallium India is making a profound impact on families dealing with chronic illnesses. This renowned NGO, based in Trivandrum, focuses on palliative care—providing relief from pain and holistic support for those with serious health conditions. A standout initiative involves parents of children receiving pediatric palliative care creating handmade handicrafts, which are then marketed at events like the recent exhibition at Kanakakunnu Palace. These Pallium India palliative care products not only offer financial empowerment but also foster emotional healing and community connection.
What is Pallium India and Its Mission?
Founded in 2003 by Dr. M.R. Rajagopal, Pallium India is a charitable trust dedicated to improving access to palliative care across India. With a special emphasis on pediatric palliative care in Kerala, the organization provides free services including pain management, rehabilitation, and family support. Their work extends beyond medical care to address social and economic challenges faced by families.
Pallium India’s rehabilitation pillar is particularly inspiring. It encourages care recipients and their families to engage in creative activities, turning hobbies into income sources. This approach helps combat the isolation and financial strain often associated with long-term illnesses.
The Rehabilitation Initiative: Handmade Products by Palliative Families
At the core of this program are the handmade handicrafts by palliative families. Parents of children undergoing palliative care craft items like crochet bags, scented candles, jute products, murals, and edibles. These activities serve multiple purposes:
- Financial Independence: Sales proceeds go directly to the creators, helping families cover medical and daily expenses.
- Emotional Support: Crafting provides a therapeutic outlet, boosting mental health and self-esteem.
- Community Integration: Participating in exhibitions builds social networks and raises awareness about palliative care.
This initiative aligns with global efforts to make palliative care universally accessible, as highlighted in themes like “Achieving the Promise: Universal Access to Palliative Care.”
Spotlight on the Kanakakunnu Exhibition 2026
In February 2026, these Pallium India palliative care products took center stage at the Kanakakunnu Palace grounds in Thiruvananthapuram. Organized by the Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation (KSWDC) as part of the Escalera Women’s Festival, the exhibition-cum-sale featured over 140 stalls showcasing women’s entrepreneurship. Pallium India also participated in the overlapping Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL) at the same venue, with a dedicated stall displaying crochet items, candles, and more.
The event drew diverse crowds—families, students, and professionals—who engaged with the stories behind the products. It was a vibrant platform for women’s empowerment in Kerala, blending cultural programs, conclaves, and marketplaces. Such exhibitions not only boost sales but also educate the public on the importance of supporting pediatric palliative care in Kerala.
Why This Matters: Impact on Families and Society
For families facing the challenges of chronic diseases, initiatives like this offer hope. Children in palliative care often require long-term support, and their parents may struggle with lost income and emotional burnout. By turning skills into sustainable livelihoods, Pallium India helps break this cycle.
Broader impacts include:
- Raising awareness about palliative care needs in India.
- Promoting handmade handicrafts by palliative families as ethical, meaningful purchases.
- Encouraging other NGOs to adopt similar rehabilitation programs.
If you’re in Kerala, consider visiting future events or supporting through donations. For more details on Pallium India’s work, check their official website: Pallium India.
How You Can Get Involved
Supporting Pallium India is easy and impactful. Here are some ways:
- Purchase products at upcoming exhibitions or online if available.
- Donate to their education support programs for children affected by chronic illnesses.
- Attend workshops on pediatric palliative care, like the recent one in collaboration with the Child Development Centre.
For the latest updates on events like the Kanakakunnu exhibition, visit the KSWDC’s Escalera page: Escalera 2026.
In a world where health challenges can feel overwhelming, stories like these remind us of the power of community and creativity. Pallium India’s efforts in rehabilitation through crafts are a beacon of hope, proving that even in difficult times, empowerment is possible.
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TFC India is bringing products made by parents of children receiving palliative care for various physical disabilities to the market. Their products are available on our store and marketing fair organized by the State Women’s Development Corporation in Kanakakunnu.