SENAPATI, June 19: In the scenic hills of Senapati district, Manipur, 38-year-old Nelly Chacheya is transforming the handicrafts scene with her innovative and sustainable creations — dolls made entirely from discarded vegetable waste. Once a florist, Nelly has earned admiration for her ability to turn corn husks and silk into intricate pieces of art, merging environmental consciousness with creative craftsmanship.

Her journey began with a simple yet impactful idea: to repurpose agricultural waste into something meaningful and beautiful. “I made corn dolls using corn peel and husk. They’re beautiful creations from corn,” Chacheya shared, reflecting on her vision. She uses corn peel for the doll’s body and corn silk for hair, resulting in handcrafted pieces that blend sustainability with charm.

Each doll is a reflection of hours of patient work, meticulously crafted and adorned with dried flowers and hand-painted details. Though modest in form, they carry deep respect for the artisan’s effort and ingenuity. What started as a personal passion has blossomed into a thriving small-scale business. Her home-based studio in Senapati has quickly become a destination for art lovers and eco-conscious shoppers from across states.

“I came here to buy flowers and dolls. It’s fascinating how she transforms corn waste into these beautiful dolls,” said Rachoyia, one of her customers.

Nelly’s dolls are not mass-produced; each piece is customized to reflect individual tastes, making them especially popular among young girls. This personal touch has distinguished her work and contributed to its growing appeal.

Beyond business success, Chacheya’s story is inspiring a wave of entrepreneurship among local women in Manipur. It highlights a rising trend where rural women are leveraging traditional skills and sustainable practices for economic empowerment. Through digital platforms and community support, artisans like Nelly are not only earning livelihoods but also preserving cultural and environmental legacies.

Her work stands as a powerful reminder that creativity, sustainability, and empowerment can beautifully coexist — turning what was once agricultural refuse into art that tells a story of transformation, resilience, and hope.