Kamala Maharana, fondly known across India as ‘Jari Mausi’, passed away on Saturday night at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. She was 66.
The national icon from Kendrapara, Odisha, had suffered a severe back injury after a fall at home a few days ago. Despite medical efforts, her condition worsened and she succumbed during treatment.
Kamala Maharana rose to fame for her environmentally conscious innovations, crafting household items like mats, baskets, rugs, and drying trays from discarded polythene. Her work not only tackled plastic waste but also empowered women through self-help group initiatives.
She was lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Mann Ki Baat broadcast and was personally honoured during his visit to Kendrapara, where he touched her feet in respect. She had also sent him a rakhi made of recycled polythene as a symbolic gesture on Raksha Bandhan.
Local leaders and residents mourned her passing, recalling how she inspired a movement through simplicity, creativity, and purpose.
Kamala had gained fresh attention after Operation Sindoor, when she sent polythene-crafted caps to the chiefs of India’s armed forces as a tribute.
Her last rites will be held at her village cremation ground in Kendrapara. She leaves behind a legacy of grassroots innovation, women empowerment, and environmental stewardship.
