Saurav Mondol (27) was diagnosed with a congenital food pipe disorder while studying in Class Ten. Although medical treatment in Bangladesh and India saved his life, his illness forced him to discontinue his studies. Years of physical pain and uncertainty followed. A small amount of Tk2,000 given by his elder brother eventually changed his life. Today, Saurav’s handmade handicrafts are sold both at home and abroad through online platforms, creating employment for several women.
Saurav is the younger son of Monoranjan Mondol and Rita Rani Mondol from Nagara Baroipara village in Netrokona Sadar upazila. His elder brother, Tanmoy Mondol, works at a private bank. Saurav currently lives in the RK Mission Road area of Mymensingh city.
Family members said his education stopped in 2012 due to illness, followed by spinal complications. Later, he spent time at a relative’s shop in Mymensingh, where he began making dolls from paper and clay during idle hours. After returning from medical treatment in India in 2019, doctors advised him to take rest. During this period, his brother encouraged him to start handicrafts with Tk2,000. He made 12 African dolls and posted them on Facebook, receiving strong customer response and multiple orders.
Saurav later rented a small house on the Dapunia Chanderbazar Road in Mymensingh and set up a workshop. Using jute, cardboard, glue and other materials, he now produces dolls, vases, pen holders, tissue boxes, wall mats and decorative items. Currently, nine women are employed at the workshop, supporting their families through this income.
According to Saurav, he has created nearly 150 types of products so far. His items are sold online and at local fairs. Exports have reached countries including the United States, Japan, Austria, Singapore and Qatar. Monthly sales reach around Tk100,000, with a net profit of Tk20,000–30,000. Despite ongoing health challenges, he has completed SSC through Open University and is now studying in the second year of his degree. His dream is to expand the factory and open a showroom, creating more employment opportunities.
GLIVE/TSN