Stand by Me: Not just a clothing brand, a ‘firebrand’ by Franco Mulakkal case survivor, fellow nuns

Kozhikode (Kerala): The battle was extraordinary and unbelievable. A fight led by a nun, lodging a rape allegation against a bishop. Despite relentless isolation, threats and inducements, she and her small group of supporting fellow nuns refused to back down. Today, they are engaged in another struggle for survival.

Only Sister Ranit, Sister Alphyand Sister Ancitta, who fought against Franco Mulakkal, the former Bishop of Jalandhar, remain at the Kuravilangad convent. Unable to bear the ongoing neglect, three of the five nuns who had supported her left religious life and returned home. Meanwhile, twelve members from the opposing side relocated elsewhere.

With their food, clothing and medicine withheld, life at the convent reached a complete standstill. That was when tailoring became their saviour. Now, these sisters are launching a brand-new clothing brand born from that craft. The brand created by these fiery nuns who led an explosive fight is truly a firebrand – ‘Stand by Me’. 

It was in 2023 that all their allowances were completely stopped. “We were left wondering how to survive without a single penny in hand. Two nuns who had completed their MSW tried to secure internships, but every institution turned them away. That was when we realised finding a job wouldn't be easy. The thought of finding work where no one could evict us led us to tailoring,” said Sister Ranit.

“With help from several people, we obtained a sewing machine. Using basic sewing skills learned in the past, I trained the other two. We started stitching nighties, churidar tops, co-ord sets, bags, table mats and runners. Now, we have five machines, alongside embroidery and interlocking machines. We have also hired two employees. What sets us apart is offering distinct products made from high-quality fabric,” Sister Ranit added.

Exhibition-cum-sale events conducted in Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram proved to be a success. They are currently preparing for an upcoming exhibition at Aspin Courtyard in Kozhikode on September 5. The exhibition is organised as part of the Women Entrepreneur Network (WEN) 'Carnival Paradiso'.