ShramGaan
Voices of Work - Songs of Dignity - Rehythms of Community
What is ShramGaan?
ShramGaan is a SEWA initiative that brings together women, work and music.
Across villages, towns and communities, women have always expressed themselves through songs. Whether working in farms, embroidery centres, salt pans, markets or homes, women carry music with them. Songs become a way to share knowledge, memories, challenges, aspirations and collective strength.
ShramGaan recognises this living tradition and seeks to document, preserve and celebrate the musical heritage of SEWA's women members. It also creates a platform where women can share their voices with the world.
Music, Women & SEWA
Music in Everyday Life
Work and music are deeply connected. Women often sing while farming, stitching, vending or caring for families. Music brings rhythm, joy and companionship to everyday labour.
Music Builds Community
Songs help women connect across villages, occupations and generations. They carry messages of solidarity, cooperation and collective action.
Music Preserves Heritage
Traditional songs contain stories, wisdom and cultural memories. ShramGaan helps preserve these traditions for future generations.
Featured Songs
A Song in Elaben's Voice
One of the most treasured recordings in the ShramGaan collection is a song sung by SEWA founder Ela Bhatt herself. Her voice reflects the values of dignity, collective strength, simplicity and service that continue to guide SEWA's journey.
Song Description
"Shanti Ka Vaadya Bana Tu Mujhe" is the Hindi adaptation of the well-known prayer "Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace", also known as the Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Song Lyrics
Shanti ka vaadya bana tu mujhe, Prabhu! Shanti ka vaadya bana tu mujhe. Shanti ka vaadya bana tu mujhe, Prabhu! Shanti ka vaadya bana tu mujhe. Ho tiraskaar jahaan, karoon sneh, Ho hamla to kshama karoon main.
Ame Paar Karishu Song
‘Ame Paar Karishu’ is a song filled with courage, enthusiasm, and fearlessness. It was adapted into Gujarati by Elaben Bhatt from ‘We Shall Overcome’. Since 1977, the song has been a source of inspiration for SEWA’s women members, representing struggle, unity, and collective strength. Its message is simple: together, we can overcome every challenge.
Song Description
"Ame Paar Karishu" is a song filled with courage, hope, determination, and fearlessness. It is the Gujarati adaptation of the internationally renowned song"
Song Description
"Ame Paar Karishu" is a song filled with courage, hope, determination, and fearlessness. It is the Gujarati adaptation of the internationally renowned song"
Song Lyrics
Ame paar karishu (3)... ek din... O... undaa antarmaan amne chhe vishvaas... ame paar karishu... ek din...
Music, Livelihood and Empowerment
Preserve Traditions
Document and archive songs so that our musical heritage lives on.
Strengthen Identity
Celebrate women's voices and stories that reflect our lives and struggles.
Create Opportunities
Support emerging singers and cultural practitioners to build livelihood and leaderships.
Gallery
Continue Listening
Explore more songs, stories and performances from SEWA women members.
About SEWA
SEWA is an organisation of self-employed women workers working towards full employment and self-reliance. Today SEWA's movement connects millions of women across India and beyond.
