Maya Shende, a woman from the Gond tribe is skilled in traditional Godna art. Painting sarees and dupattas, she is the first in her family to have taken up the craft as her profession. Under the aegis of an NGO named Jai Seva Hast Shilp Kala Sanstha in Rajnandgaon district, she has been visiting various fairs and exhibitions held in the country. Through this opportunity, she is able to sustain her family in a dignified manner and receives their appreciation as well.

The NGO gets due support from the government in the shape of funds for training and raw materials. They are making an effort to rope in as many tribal people as possible. Due to lack of exposure, the new generation is hesitant in taking up their traditional art as a profession. But with a diligent effort by the government, more artisans like Maya Shende can come to light.