‘Stand by me’: Ostracised by congregation, 3 Catholic nuns rebuild their lives, one stitch at a time

Three Catholic nuns in Kottayam's Keralam district have turned to sewing to rebuild their lives after being ostracized by their congregation. Sister Ranit MJ, Sister Alphy, and Sister Ancitta operate a clothing brand called 'Stand By Me', which was born from their fight against sexual violence. Initially, it served as a distraction, but soon became necessary as they stopped receiving sustenance from their congregation.

The brand, inspired by the song "Stand by Me," aims to support those who have suffered gender-based violence. The sisters also grow vegetables, raise poultry, and even sell milk to sustain themselves. While they are earning enough to get by, sudden expenses pose challenges. However, the sisters emphasize that their goal is to live their lives with dignity, not to seek charity.