The Enchanting PapayaCare Queen: A Tale of Care and Craft

Ms. Kanan Kulkarni, born in 1963, completed her schooling until the 12th grade. While in the 12th grade, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, leading her to leave school and begin making cross-stitch frames. To keep herself engaged, she learned glass painting and hand embroidery, creating embroidered bed sheets and dresses, which she loved to gift to others. She always sought to stay busy and avoid dwelling on her illness. Preferring not to go outside, she enjoyed household chores but had no interest in cooking despite being a foodie. Over time, her condition worsened, and she developed additional issues such as depression and dementia.

After her mother passed away in 2003, Kanan Aunty stayed at home for a year and a half. Her 74-year-old father, unable to care for her, decided to place her in a rehabilitation center in Bangalore. During her seven and a half years there, she became well-loved for her singing and gained popularity. She also took up making artificial flowers, which she sold successfully. Following her stay in Bangalore, she moved to PapayaCare, where she continues to create beautiful flowers that everyone admires. Despite these hardships, she possesses remarkable willpower and a passion for crafting. Kannan Aunty can transform anything into a piece of art or a useful object. She loves to sing and is known for her helpful nature, often assisting other residents with their daily tasks.

Dementia is a particularly difficult disease, yet Kannan Aunty perseveres, managing to remember and craft many things. Her handcrafted flowers are not only stunning but also creative, mesmerizing everyone who sees them. Her story is one of resilience and artistic brilliance, a testament to her enduring spirit and talent.