Nedupuzha/Thrissur: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the inspiring life story of school teacher Rathnam P.G from Thrissur stands as a testament to resilience and determination. Her life shows that even the toughest challenges can be overcome with unwavering courage.
A native of Nedupuzha in Thrissur, Rathnam’s life began facing major challenges at the age of two. After being affected by polio, she lost mobility in her left leg. Despite the physical limitations that followed, Rathnam refused to let her circumstances define her life and instead embarked on a journey marked by extraordinary courage.
After passing her SSLC in 1972, Rathnam went on to earn a degree in Botany from Sree Kerala Varma College. Even during her B.Ed studies, walking was extremely difficult, especially during the monsoon season. Yet she never gave up on her dreams. Her perseverance paid off when, at the age of 45, she was appointed as a teacher in a government school in Cherpu.
In 2011, the Kerala Government honoured her as the Best Government Employee in the category of differently-abled staff. Even at the age of 69, Rathnam leads a life filled with confidence and positivity. Though walking remains difficult, she refused to confine herself within the four walls of her home.
For the past 15 years, Rathnam has been producing homemade products such as chocolates, sambar powder, chutney powder, pickles and soap, selling them under a small home brand to earn a self-sustaining income. She also creates decorative items like customised ‘Alavattam’ and other home décor products. What began as an effort to use her time productively gradually became a source of inspiration for many.
However, what makes Rathnam teacher truly special this Women’s Day is another remarkable initiative. She voluntarily makes knitted knockers—soft, hand-knitted prosthetic breasts—for women who have undergone breast removal due to breast cancer.
Doctors at Amala Hospital had once approached her with a request to knit these prosthetic pieces for women who had undergone mastectomy. Using her knitting skills, Rathnam began making soft cotton prosthetics that offered comfort to patients. Witnessing the relief it brought to many women encouraged her to continue producing them regularly.
Although prosthetics made of sponge or gel are available in the market, many women prefer knitted cotton versions because they allow better air circulation and cause less irritation. Rathnam says the basic skills for making these knitted knockers came from her earlier experience of knitting clothes for her daughter when she was a child. She has also improved her techniques by watching tutorials on YouTube.
Today, many cancer survivors approach Rathnam seeking her help as they rebuild their lives with renewed confidence.
In recognition of her social welfare activities, Calicut University honoured her with the Golden Mother Award in 2014..
Currently, Rathnam devotes much of her time to training children with disabilities. She teaches them to make products such as agarbathis, soaps and handicrafts, helping them develop skills and self-confidence.
“I may have many limitations, but I never allow them to defeat me. Each time I fall, I rise stronger,” Rathnam says with a smile.
Rathnam’s life is not merely a story of overcoming limitations. It is a powerful message of dignity, independence and hope—an inspiration she shares with women everywhere on this Women’s Day.
