Mumbai: In celebration of International Labour Day, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) has launched a powerful digital film titled ‘Hands That Speak’, showcasing its commitment to building a truly inclusive workforce. The film honours the contributions of employees with disabilities working at GCPL’s flagship greenfield manufacturing facility in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu.
The digital film features GCPL team members, including those with hearing and speech disabilities, who share their stories in Indian Sign Language (ISL)—with subtitles ensuring accessibility for a wider audience. In doing so, the film transforms the idea of communication, proving that when words fall silent, hands speak volumes.
Set against the vibrant hum of a working factory, the film highlights the pride, precision, and individuality of these employees, offering a poignant reminder that inclusion is not about accommodation—but recognition and empowerment.
According to a 2021 UnearthInsight report, India has nearly 30 million persons with disabilities (PwDs), but only 11% are meaningfully employed. With ‘Hands That Speak’, GCPL calls attention to this gap, urging industry-wide change to create accessible and equitable workplaces.
“GCPL’s Chengalpattu factory’s commitment to respect and fairness, inspires meaningful change – both in the workplace and beyond. ‘Hands That Speak’ is a celebration of the incredible contributions of people with disabilities in our workforce. On Labour Day, we honour not just the work, but the spirit and individuality behind it. We hope this film sparks conversations and action across industries to make employment more accessible and equitable,” said Sandhya Ramesh, General Manager – Diversity Equity and Inclusion, GCPL.
The initiative aligns with GCPL’s broader mission of equity in employment, inclusion, and sustainability. At the Chengalpattu facility, 50% of the workforce comprises women, and 5% representation comes from persons with disabilities (PwDs) and LGBTQIA+ communities—a testament to GCPL’s vision of a diverse, future-forward manufacturing culture.
By breaking structural and social barriers, GCPL continues to lead from the front in enabling people with locomotor, speech, and hearing impairments to contribute confidently and meaningfully to India’s evolving workforce.
