‘A dying art’: India’s female seaweed divers look to a brighter future for their girls

For generations, mothers in Tamil Nadu have taught their daughters the dangerous trade. But while their work has brought them financial independence, few are mourning its passing With sacks tied around their saris and well-used goggles as their only equipment, the seaweed collectors of India’s south-east coast have been diving in the Gulf of Mannar for decades, passing skills from mother to daughter. The women spend six hours a day in the sea, diving up to 4 metres (12ft) to harvest the seaweed from sharp rocks, holding their breath as they tuck the fronds into bags tied around their waists. The divers face many risks such as unpredictable tides and venomous fish, as well as regular scrapes and bruises Continue reading...
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