To mark International Labour Day on May 1, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL) has launched a powerful digital film titled ‘Hands That Speak’, paying tribute to the spirit of inclusivity and diversity within its workforce. The initiative puts the spotlight on employees with disabilities, particularly those with hearing and speech impairments, working at GCPL’s state-of-the-art greenfield manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu.
The evocative film features GCPL team members communicating in Indian Sign Language (ISL), accompanied by subtitles, offering a compelling reminder that silence does not equate to absence of voice. Through graceful hand gestures, the employees narrate stories of resilience, skill, and belonging—turning their hands into tools of expression and symbols of quiet power.
Set amid the rhythm of a working factory, the film reframes the idea of productivity, focusing not just on output but on identity and contribution. It underscores the message that inclusion isn’t an initiative—it’s a way of doing business.
As per UnearthInsight’s 2021 report, nearly 30 million people in India live with disabilities, but only 11% are gainfully employed. ‘Hands That Speak’ goes beyond storytelling—it’s a call to action for India Inc. to foster equitable opportunities and reimagine the future of work by building inclusive, accessible workplaces.
With this campaign, GCPL not only honours its own people but also reaffirms its commitment to drive systemic change—one story, one job, and one empowered hand at a time.
Told through Indian Sign Language (ASL) and supported by subtitles, the film lets GCPL’s employees with hearing and speech disabilities take the lead—sharing their story not with spoken words, but with their hands. These hands don’t just build, pack, or create volumes. They’re symbols of pride, identity, and an unspoken strength that says it all. Set against the ambient hum of a functioning factory, Hands That Speak redefines traditional notions of voice, communication, and contribution. It offers an intimate glimpse into a world where silence is not a barrier but a language, where employees feel the rhythm of machines, contribute with precision, and speak volumes through purposeful action.
Sandhya Ramesh, General Manager – Diversity Equity and Inclusion, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), said, “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.”
‘Hands That Speak’ is part of GCPL’s ongoing efforts to champion equity in employment, highlight the power of silent strength, and inspire organizations to build a more inclusive labour force. GCPL’s newly launched Chengalpattu plant in Tamil Nadu stands as a testament to Godrej Consumer Products’ unwavering commitment to shaping the future of manufacturing, where innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity seamlessly converge. Along with 50% women employees, the plant has 5% representation from people with disabilities (PWD) and LGBTQIA+ communities. By breaking structural and social barriers, GCPL aims to enable more individuals, especially those with locomotor, speech, or hearing impairments, to contribute fully and proudly to the workforce.
