Reduces the environmental impact
Focusses on women producers
Created using handcrafted methods
Tiruvannamalai, one of Tamil Nadu's aspirational districts, faces economic challenges with low per capita income and limited opportunities for women due to mechanized agriculture and erratic rainfall. These factors have reduced seasonal jobs, compounded by rising costs of living, education, and healthcare, pushing many families into debt. In response to these hardships, Wild Ideas was launched in June 2014 as a self-sustaining, community-based enterprise empowering rural women. Starting with just two members, the initiative has grown to support 85 women, fostering economic independence and resilience. The group produces 100% organic and natural household cleaners, personal care products, and organic snacks, ensuring a chemical-free lifestyle, alongside managing a high-end handcrafted product line. Wild Ideas stands as a testament to the power of community-driven solutions, creating sustainable livelihoods while inspiring hope and self-reliance for women in one of the most underserved regions of Tamil Nadu.
Purpose
Rooted in the desire for financial independence and a life of dignity, this inspiring initiative is a testament to resilience and transformation. It champions sustainable living, revives traditional recipes, and upholds the principles of fair trade. With its ethos of empowering women and creating meaningful change, the enterprise has established livelihood projects across India, providing opportunities in underserved communities. Every product is crafted with care—be it household cleaners, personal care items, or handcrafted goods—and reflects a commitment to quality, sustainability, and social impact. What sets it apart is its simple yet profound philosophy: 100% of the profits go directly to the women who create these products, fostering empowerment and economic self-reliance. Its guiding principle is clear: be good to yourself, your home, and the Earth, embodying a holistic approach to living and giving back to both people and the planet.
People
At its core, this initiative embodies a deep commitment to ethical harvesting, forest conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. Its work extends to communities living on the fringes of the Kaundinya Wildlife Sanctuary in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, where nearly 70 tribal households collect forest materials responsibly, ensuring the preservation of their natural surroundings. Similarly, partnerships with small farmers and women from Odekar Farms in Tumkur, Karnataka, enable the production of high-quality, eco-friendly goods while empowering these communities economically. By supporting marginalized forest and farm workers, the initiative fosters ethical practices that honor both people and the planet. Every purchase directly impacts these communities, providing them with a stable source of income and encouraging sustainable living. This holistic approach not only uplifts rural households but also preserves the delicate balance of nature, making it a force for positive change in underserved regions.
Planet
The palm tree, Tamil Nadu’s state tree, holds immense cultural and historical significance, earning the title "celestial tree" for its unparalleled utility. Once integral to art, culture, rituals, and daily life, this indigenous tree now faces an uncertain future. With skilled climbers dwindling and markets failing to recognize the value of palm products, many weavers found themselves out of work. Alarmed by the sight of these majestic trees being cut down for lack of purpose, an initiative was launched to revive the craft of palm weaving. Starting with little knowledge, it established a weaving center that now produces exceptional utilitarian designs, breathing new life into this endangered tradition. Beyond preserving a centuries-old craft, this effort supports livelihoods, honors Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage, and restores pride in a tree that remains a symbol of resilience and sustainability.
