Collective action, sustained commitment, and meaningful partnerships can accelerate positive change in society. The transformative journey of Manu stands as a powerful example of this. Through the Entrepreneurship Development Program, Intel, in collaboration with CYDA, helped uplift the lives of marginalised individuals. Pritesh Kamble, Head of the Inclusion Unit at CYDA, highlights how focused and inclusive interventions can empower people to reclaim their identity, dignity, and livelihood.
Struggling with Identity
Manu, a Gay member of the Vannan community in Kerala, grew up purely in cultural traditions. By the age of 17, he began practicing the sacred art of Theyyam, a vibrant, ritualistic performance strongly connected to temple culture. For the Vannan community, this is not just entertainment, it is spiritual, ancestral and deeply symbolic. To perform this art is to carry the legacy of generations, to serve as a medium between the divine and the people.
But while Manu found purpose in this spiritual path, life outside the performance was marked by struggle and isolation. As someone who identifies as gay, he often faced confusion and discrimination from society. Despite the respect for Theyyam performers, Manu often felt people treated him differently because of who he was.
“Those who perform Theyyam often appear more feminine. It is not because we are transgender. The art itself brings out a softer, spiritual expression,” admits Manu. Unfortunately, people often misunderstood this expression of devotion, which made it hard for Manu to find work or be accepted without judgment.
The burden of dependence
For years, Manu faced limitations that affected both his livelihood and self-worth. He relied heavily on others to rent the costumes, jewellery and accessories required to perform. These rentals came at a high price, with significant commission cuts, that left him with barely any savings. The limitations meant that he could only perform with one costume at a time, restricting his opportunities and earning capacity.
Discovering support through community
Everything began to change when Manu came across a message shared in a WhatsApp group for the gay community in Kannur. It was an invitation to attend CYDA’s Entrepreneurship Development Training Program. Curious and somewhat hesitant, Manu decided to participate.
The training was an eye-opener. “I used to think I was just surviving,” says Manu. “But the training made me realize that my art could also be a business.” Through practical and relatable sessions, he learnt how to open and manage a bank account. He also understood the significance of having insurance and gained knowledge on how to make investments. Concepts like loans, interest rates, and financial planning were broken down in simple terms. Most importantly, the training helped him shift his mindset. They showed us inspiring stories of people who started with nothing but changed their lives through smart thinking. That really inspired me – says Manu
Stepping into ownership
With a seed capital of Rs . 10,000 and combined with his own small savings, Manu made a bold decision. He purchased his own Theyyam costumes and accessories. Along with his financial move, he felt totally empowered and independent. Owning his attire meant he no longer had to pay rent or depend on others to perform. Manu says proudly, “before, most of my earnings went into rent. Now, in the peak season, I can save up to Rs . 10,000/- a week.”
A newfound confidence
The impact of the training went beyond finances. Manu found himself surrounded by people from different backgrounds—others who had faced trauma, stigma, and hardship but were determined to move forward. This collective strength motivated him. “Seeing others with bigger struggles and still moving ahead made me reflect. I can also do better in my life,” he says.
Manu’s transformation became visible to those around him. Once labeled as lazy or dependent, now actively seeks work during the off-season, something he had never done before. His new energy and drive surprised even his close friends and relatives. Some, impressed by his dedication, began offering him small job opportunities outside the performing season.
A symbol of change
“I used to think I was just following what my family did. But seeing others fight harder battles and still succeed made me want to do more. People who once mocked me now see me differently. They saw the change after the training, and they even offered me jobs. CYDA helped me turn my passion into power. Now, I feel like I am truly building something of my own.”
Today, Manu is a self-reliant artist, an entrepreneur and a symbol of hope for many within his community. His journey shows how tradition, when combined with the right support and knowledge, can become a tool for empowerment and change. He now stands tall, an artist emerged in sacred ritual, and a changemaker lighting the way for others.
