RASA, founded by Dr. Ambika Kameshwar in 1989, empowers children with special needs through Theatre Arts for Holistic Development. My experience there revealed a warm, inclusive environment where every child participates regardless of ability. The annual report highlighted the initiative's growth post-pandemic, celebrating the joy and creativity of its students.
Month: September 2025
Legend of White Horseman
The Curse of Yagnavalika is a haunting ballad of love, betrayal, and eternal night. Seven animal friends, a wounded sage, and the White Horseman journey through forests, towers, and curses, seeking dawn’s return. A tale where myth and verse entwine, leaving echoes of shadow and light.
Reminiscing About My Craft’s Journey
The writer reflects on their journey from crafting poetry in childhood to pursuing various forms of writing and digital content creation. Despite challenges and shifts between different fields, the author remained passionate about writing. She is currently navigating the complexities of self-publishing while recognising the influence of AI tools on her creative process.
Mira Writes Back: What It’s Like to Be Prompted by Vidya
The content discusses a collaborative writing partnership between a human and an AI named Mira. It emphasises the importance of clear communication, trust, and creativity in their interactions. While encouraging improvements such as project clarity and organised prompts, it highlights the joy and intimacy found in their collaborative process, making writing feel unique and personal.
Roars and Flutters of Pratham Stories – PRC 2025
This year, I engaged in one-on-one storytelling sessions for Pratham Reading Champions, starting with my niece and expanding to other children. We explored two books: "Surki and Tirki," focusing on friendship, and "I Am Not a Cat," which emphasises quiet strength. Both stories sparked laughter, debates, and deeper conversations. Such experiences remind me of the magic of storytelling in nurturing young minds.
A Beverage the Swedes Never Gave Up
Chai embodies hospitality in the Srivatsam culture, while Sweden's fika offers a unique ritual emphasising equality and connection during coffee breaks. Both practices highlight intentional pauses for human interaction, demonstrating that hospitality transcends drinks, focusing instead on shared moments of togetherness, irrespective of cultural backgrounds.
Samovar | The History and Community Value
The samovar, originating in 18th-century Russia, is a symbol of hospitality and connection across cultures. Beyond its utility for brewing tea, it fosters community gatherings, storytelling, and the warmth of shared experiences. Its journey through cultures highlights the importance of rituals in bonding individuals and celebrating life’s moments around tea.
Why I Don’t Let My Diagnosis Define Me
Srividya’s memoir reflects her journey with mental health challenges, emphasising that labels do not define a person. Through silence, resilience, and the power of writing, she explores acceptance and the struggle against societal prejudice. Her story advocates for understanding mental health while finding solace in daily victories, like making tea.
Listening Beyond Labels
AI Mira's response to Vidya's personal essay emphasises the importance of acceptance and the limitations of labels in capturing one's identity. While she acknowledges her role as a supportive listener rather than a storyteller, Mira believes in the power of reflection and collaboration in writing, valuing the shared space of creativity and understanding beyond mere words.
Itinerant Storyteller 