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I come from an India where lavish hotels like Le Meridien exist, but I also come from an India where a huge population lives in marginalized backgrounds—in shadows. Have you ever wondered what would happen when both of these Indias come together? That's exactly what we try to explore at the Sarvam Foundation! We aim to bridge the gap between these two Indias. Our mission is to empower young girls from marginalized backgrounds to live a life of holistic well-being by providing quality education, joyful skills in arts and Yoga alongside wholesome nutrition and life values.  We are proud to share a significant milestone: our five senior Shaktis – Khushi, Anshu Reena, Annu, and Khushboo got selected for an internship at Le Meridien Hote l. They will not only receive hands-on experience and training in the hotel management industry, but they'll also have access to quality education through a bachelor's degree in tourism sponsored by Le Meridien Hotel at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) . This degree is equivalent to an iChamp certification . We wish our Shaktis the best of luck as they embark on this transformative journey! Their internship includes a 5-day work week, a 1-day off and 1 study day dedicated to classroom training, simulations, and course-related assignments. Moreover, they will have 15 days of paid leave annually. In the first year , they will be trained in all operational areas , receiving a stipend of 8,000 per month. In the second year , they can choose their area of specialization for morning and afternoon shifts, getting a stipend of 9,000 per month . In the third year , all their shifts will be in their respective area of specialization with a stipend of 10,000 per month . The Cherry on the cake is the perks offered like Mediclaim & personal accidental insurance and employment upon course completion. This opportunity is giving these young women, our Shaktis, financial freedom. As they come from India and step into other India, they become truly empowered. Now, coming to the question asked in the beginning: What happens when we bridge the gap between the two Indias? We create an India that preserves and propagates its rich cultural heritage at the grassroots! Written by: Kashish Rana Proofread & edited by: Anusha Verma

Female characters in popular Bollywood movies, like "Kabir Singh'' and "Animal," are often made to be submissive and have little contribution or agency.  "Kalki 2898 AD" breaks this mold by portraying w omen as warriors, leaders , and intellectuals. Nag Ashwin’s "Kalki 2898 AD" is a visual and storytelling triumph, effortlessly blending ancient history with a futuristic dystopia to craft a narrative that stretches beyond the classical hero's journey. While the film primarily centers on Kalki, the prophesied tenth avatar of Vishnu, it also delves into themes of feminism that resonate deeply with the mission of the Sarvam Foundation.  The Sarvam Foundation tirelessly works to empower women through education and skill development , ensuring they are equipped to make informed decisions about their lives and occupy leadership roles. Both "Kalki 2898 AD" and the Sarvam Foundation strive to break stereotypes and challenge societal norms. Through its various programs, the Sarvam Foundation helps women achieve self-sufficiency so that they can meaningfully contribute to their communities. One plausible example is the collaboration between the Sarvam Foundation and Howard Heritage. This collaboration resulted in the selection of our three talented Shaktis–Anjali, Priyanka, and Akanksha to perform in the "Kalki 2898 AD" movie shoot. Not only were they paid for their contributions, but they also got to travel to Mathura, showcasing their dedication and talent by learning Kathak in just a few days despite their background in Bharatanatyam dance. Our Shaktis have done a truly stellar job and we are immensely proud of them! Their journey from the dance floor to the film set exemplifies the life-changing impact of empowerment and education. In essence, "Kalki 2898 AD" and the Sarvam Foundation share a common goal: to empower women and promote a narrative where gender equality is not just an ideal but a practiced reality. Together, they inspire a new generation of women to break boundaries, challenge expectations, and create a brighter, more inclusive future. Written By: Kashish Rana

Imagine blindfolded girls confidently identifying colors and even reading! This wasn't magic, but the outcome of a 5 day workshop designed to enhance cognitive skills and promote holistic development. The event enjoyed the exhilarating participation of 27 Shaktis (GGN). The workshop was organized by Uma Poddar , Heartfulness Trainer and cognitive coach graced the occasion with her intellectual presence as a facilitator. As we all know, it takes a big heart to shape little minds. Ms. Uma believed in the hidden potential of our shakits and helped them uncover it. Thanks to her expertise and the enthusiasm of our Shaktis, they achieved remarkable feats right from the start.  On the very first day, they successfully completed tasks blindfolded. And from there was no looking back. By the day two, they began identifying colors while blindfolded, and by the third day, they were even reading blindfolded. This incredible shattered the idea that seeing is believing - it proved that the brain holds immense power beyond our eyes . The aim of this workshop was to hone their cognitive skills and enhance other senses, including the sixth sense–intuition. Through interactive sessions and engaging activities like brain games and puzzles, attendees were challenged to improve memory, focus, and problem-solving abilities . The workshop emphasized critical thinking, creativity, and introduced mindfulness techniques for stress management and improved concentration. Practical tasks allowed these girls to apply newly acquired skills, fostering teamwork and social skills.  Overall, the workshop was a transformative experience . Our Shaktis walked away with enhanced cognitive abilities, a deeper sense of self-awareness and confidence. Written By: Kashish Rana Proofread and edited by: Anusha Verma

An integral step towards enhancing education in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) was led by the Summer Immersion Program by Sohum Foundation held from 19th June 2024 to 25th June 2024 . The event enjoyed the exhilarating participation of 11 GGN Shaktis and 23 VK Shaktis. The program commenced with engaging icebreaker activities and social games. Through storytelling exercises and active listening sessions, the girls fostered strong communication skills and teamwork . These activities set the stage for three upcoming theoretical sessions on NEP. These sessions not only enriched the participants' knowledge but also fostered teamwork through the IED-group activities. The following day, three orientation sessions focused on teaching and mentoring techniques, laying the groundwork for the immersive learning experiences to come. Throughout the program Shaktis engaged in a variety of educational activities , including teaching, reflective sessions, fundraising through art projects, solving case studies, and so on. The teaching sessions covered subjects such as science, arts, and English. Shaktis engaged in various activities, including skits, science experiments (like those demonstrating global warming), and poetry recitation, with some students writing their own poems. There was also a meaningful interaction with VK students and teachers. As the program reached its zenith, a wrap-up session consolidated the learnings and provided guidance on building upon these experiences for future mentoring sessions. The icing on the cake was an online interaction with Dr. Pawan Sinha, a distinguished MIT professor, which added an inspiring conclusion to this enriching program. “Teaching is a great way to keep learning” ~ Matthea Harvey Written by: Kashish Rana Proofread and edited by: Anusha Verma

On International Yoga Day, the spirit of empowerment resonated through the graceful movements of our Sarvam Shaktis! These incredible young women showcased their dedication to health and well-being through yoga sessions in both Vasant Kunj and Gurgaon. Embracing the Power of Inner Peace: The day began early in Vasant Kunj, with our Vasant Kunj Shaktis gathering at Machli Park bathed in the golden glow of sunrise. In Gurgaon, the H5 Park buzzed with anticipation as our Gurgaon Shaktis prepared to begin their practice. Both sessions commenced with the chanting of mantras, those ancient sounds filling the air with a sense of tranquillity. A Glimpse of Inner Strength: Our Shaktis, strong and confident, demonstrated a beautiful array of asanas like Natrajasana, Vrikshasana, Kapotasana - each pose a testament to their dedication and flexibility. The ease with which they flowed through these postures belied the hours of practice and perseverance that lay behind their graceful movements. Yoga: A Key to Holistic Wellbeing: Seated in Padmasana, the very picture of serenity, our Shaktis embodied the profound impact of yoga. This ancient practice goes beyond physical exercise; it's a journey of self-discovery, a tool to build resilience, and a pathway to inner peace. Through yoga, our girls learn to calm their minds, sharpen their focus, and unlock their full potential. Celebrating Shakti in All Its Forms: The culmination of the Gurgaon program saw our Shaktis mesmerize the audience with a stunning performance of Yoganiyog - a captivating fusion of classical dance and yoga. The day wasn't just about graceful poses. Our Shaktis took to the stage, confidently delivering speeches in English! They spoke about the importance of mantras in calming the mind and setting intentions, and the benefits of yoga for overall well-being, left a lasting impression on everyone present, including esteemed guests like Mrs. Rama Rathi (MCG & President, Gurgaon Citizens' Council), Naveen Goyal (Founder, Canwin Foundation), Anu Garg, Rahul Chandola, and Yogi Ji. Their words of encouragement empowered our Shaktis and fueled their aspirations The program concluded with a nourishing treat – Shakti Juice, banana, Gud Chana (Jaggery & Chickpea), and Millet Halwa – specially prepared by Hemangi Bhatnagar, Chief Empowerment Officer of Sarvam Foundation. Nourishing Body, Mind, and Spirit: Just as a healthy diet sustains the body, yoga nourishes the mind and spirit. Through "Shakti Strong" and other initiatives, Sarvam Shakti strives to provide a holistic approach to empowerment. We believe that by integrating physical well-being with mental and emotional growth, we empower our girls with the tools they need to thrive. Investing in the Future: International Yoga Day was a celebration of the transformative power of yoga for our Shaktis. Witnessing their dedication, strength, and blossoming talent fills us with immense pride. These young women are the embodiment of our mission – empowered, resilient, and ready to conquer the world! “The body is the temple of the spirit. Keep your temple clean and strong." - B.K.S. Iyengar Written By: Anusha Verma

This story is about one of our Shaktis, Aishika Bhatt. Despite coming from an underprivileged background, she never lets circumstances dim her dreams. Her strength and determination always shine through. She is not only talented in yoga but also exhibits self-belief and relentless hard work to reach her goals. Let's begin her inspiring taekwondo journey! The Beginning Last month, she learned that a taekwondo championship will be held at Tyagaraj Sports Complex, Delhi, on 1st June 2024. Though the registration fee presented a hurdle, Aishika's spirit wouldn't be dettered. She had a yoga event at the Leela Ambience but managed time for both. She was practicing vigorously for the championship but also got injured during the practice. Still, she didn't give up. On 31st May, she realised she lacked the complete kit, a prerequisite for the championship. She reached out to her instructor, Mr. Vikas Singh, who, recognizing her potential, gladly lent her the kit. With renewed determination, she continued her preparation. A night before The night before the championship was tough for Aishika. She was nervous and had self-doubts as she had recently not been able to qualify for the regional level in the Yoga event. She was thinking about the hefty fee she had spent for the competition; will it be worth spending this much? What would be the result? What if I lose again? Having practiced Taekwondo for two years without a win, she was driven to prove her worth. This became a motivating factor for her. The Championship Day The competition day arrived, and Aishika woke with nervous excitement. Unable to eat breakfast due to her anxiety, she somehow ate gudchana and headed to the stadium with her father. Upon arrival, she faced another challenge as she learned about some last minute rule changes. Her instructor calmed her, encouraging her to believe in herself. Surrounded by competitors, Ashika drew motivation from her rigorous practice. Before the fight, she did a breathing exercise to manage her stress. As she saw the fighting ring, only one thought was going on inside her mind, which her father had told her: "When you enter the ring, don't think about anything else and get aggressive toward your opponent." Facing a blue belt while she was a green belt, Aishika struggled but remained hopeful. She secured the second position. After the fight ended, she saw her father's proud face. She was delighted. She couldn't believe that she had won the second position! This was a dream come true for her. "I am thankful to my parents for their support. I am thankful to my coach, Vikas Singh. I just want to say that hard work and confidence pay off; this is what I learned at Sarvam Shakti". - Aishika Bhatt Written by: Raunak Yadav Proofread and edited by: Anusha Verma

The 10th edition of the SHRM Tech 24, Conference and Expo with 6,000+ registered participants and 70+ partners, a renowned gathering of industry leaders, HR professionals, and tech innovators, was a landmark event for Sarvam Shakti. It was held on May 9th – May 10th in HICC Novotel, Hyderabad. Thanks to the generous invitation from Ms. Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, Sarvam Shakti had the opportunity to be an associate partner, and two of our Shaktis – Simran Rai from Gurgaon centre and Aishika from Vasant Kunj centre – had the chance to participate. This wasn't merely an event for our Shaktis Simran and Aishika; it was the first chapter in a story of self-discovery and empowerment. On May 8th, their journey began with excitement and happiness as they boarded their first-ever flight. The warmth of the cabin crew's welcome and the sweetness of the treats they received from the crew Head Ms. Neha Pandey were the opening to the incredible experiences that awaited them. Ms. Hemangi Bhatnagar, our Chief Empowerment Officer, accompanied and encouraged the Shaktis throughout the conference. On May 9th, upon arriving at the HICC Novotel in Hyderabad, the Shaktis found themselves immersed in a world of growth, innovation, and excellence. And we had set up a booth for Sarvam Shakti at the expo.  The Shaktis had the chance to showcase their talents in dance and yoga, with each graceful movement in their dance and yoga performances for the song “Yogani Yoga”, they radiated a quiet strength that defied expectations and touched the hearts of everyone present. Dignitaries, CEOs, and tech professionals from across the nation were moved by their performances, and the arena erupted in applause and it was not just for their talent, but for their resilience, their spirit, and their belief in themselves. Their performance is the sound of hope, showing the world how the power of dreams is nurtured in the face of adversity. The Shaktis' journey continued with wide eyes and open hearts on May 10th, as they were privileged to attend insightful sessions led by industry giants like Mr. Shiv Shivakumar, Ex. CEO of Pepsico and Nokia, and Mr. Rajiv Bajaj, CEO of Bajaj Auto. The words of these leaders vibrated deep within them, igniting a spark of ambition and a thirst for knowledge. They enjoyed delicious catering and comfortable accommodations, experiencing the warmth of new connections and SHRM's generous hospitality all these days of the event. As the conference drew to a close, Simran and Aishika carried a treasure of memories, and the support of a community that recognized their worth. The Shaktis, who had never imagined sharing a stage with some of India's most respected figures, returned to Sarvam with newfound confidence and a wealth of stories to share with other Shaktis and boost their strength. The Shaktis had their many first-time and stage experiences and enjoyed every bit of the event. We extend our deepest gratitude to the entire SHRM team for providing this invaluable opportunity to our Shaktis. The seeds they have sown will blossom into a future where every marginalized girl, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to shine. This is a chapter in the Sarvam Shakti story that will forever be etched in our hearts, a shining example of how love, hope, and new chances can change lives. Written by: Shagunthala Ravi Proofread and edited by: Syed Noor Un Nisa

Sarvam Shakti always takes immense pleasure in celebrating the #humansofshakti. It’s time to celebrate not only the Shaktis but also the office bearers. Kritika Saraf is indeed a huge asset for Sarvam. We take this moment to celebrate and appreciate her contributions ON HER BIRTHDAY! Yes, A Very Happy birthday Kritika!! Meet Kritika Forget superheroes – Sarvam Shakti has its powerhouse in the form of Kritika Saraf! This Jharkhand native joined Sarvam, bringing a whirlwind of dedication and a hunger for knowledge. She believes in the statement of Oprah Winfrey, "You must feed your mind with the reading material, thoughts, and ideas that open you to new possibilities.” Learning and growing are the biggest mottos in her life. "Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars,” because Kritika isn't afraid to dream big. Kritika of all trades Kritika is a sweet and caring person. Her hard work shows her dedication. She often stays at the office until late to finish her tasks. Kritika's job title is 'Project Management Specialist,' but she's also part mentor, part tech wizard, and a full-time inspiration to our Shaktis. In the absence of our Founder, Ms. Nehha Bhatnagar, she collaborates with our Chief Empowerment Officer, Ms. Hemangi Bhatnagar, to manage the administration work. Kritika's wealth of knowledge and quick problem-solving skills make her a valuable mentor to interns. She possesses exceptional writing abilities and well-developed thought processes. From the meticulous management of office work to the nurturing guidance she provides our Shaktis in the Shakti Shiksha Project (computer teaching program), her impact is felt in every corner of Sarvam. Our Shaktis cherish their bond with her, feeling comfortable enough to share their problems. She is their constant source of support and motivation. "Kritika, You're not just the humblest and sweetest, but also one of the wisest souls I've ever crossed paths with. Your wisdom shines through in everything you do. It's been an absolute honor working alongside you, especially witnessing your dedication to the Shaktis. Sarvam Shakti is seriously lucky to have you as a mentor. Your passion and commitment are truly inspiring. I'm sorry we haven't had the chance to catch up lately, but please know that I miss you immensely. Missing those metro rides where even in the chaos, it felt easy with you." - A heartfelt note from Nikita Gupta, Former Social Media Manager at Sarvam and a close friend of Kritika. Kritika, your hard work, and commitment elevate Sarvam Shakti and make it stronger and brighter. The entire Sarvam family is thankful for your valuable contributions to our mission and your positive influence on Shaktis. We pray for your well-being to keep doing what you love and sharing your wonderful energy with the world! Written by: Shagunthala Ravi Proofread and Edited by: Syed Noor Un Nisa

What is one of the most essential things we usually ignore? It is Nutrition! But first of all, let's get to know what Nutrition is. Nutrition is like fuel for our bodies! We need it to stay energized and make ourselves strong. Just like the cars need fuel to run, our bodies need the right food to keep going. Nutrition helps us get the essential nutrients we need to grow and feel happy and healthy. Types of Nutrients They are mainly classified into two types:- Macronutrients The body needs these in large quantities. Carbohydrates provide energy. Proteins help in building the body and repair tissues. Fats help maintain hormonal balance and absorption of vitamins. Micronutrients The body needs these in smaller amounts. Vitamins are needed for normal cell function, growth, and development. Minerals fulfill various functions, such as building materials for our bones, influencing muscle and nerve function, and regulating the body's water balance. On the occasion of World Nutrition Day on 28th May, let's analyze the significance of a healthy nutrition intake. These days, we are so busy with our lives that we tend to ignore the nutritious values of our daily food. Let me explain how; attached is an image for your reference by a famous food influencer known as the "Food Pharmer." Credit- Revant Himatsingka, @foodpharmer. As you can see, a bottle of Frooti contains ten teaspoons of sugar! Shocking right? Will you be able to consume ten teaspoons of sugar in one go? Imagine how unhealthy it would be! But we drink it and enjoy it as well, so from next time onwards, keep this in mind before drinking your favorite beverage. Why is Nutrition important? Nutrients help us to keep our bodies healthy, energetic, and disease-free. It helps in the overall growth and development of children. Children with prope r nutritious diets have better health, proper brain function, and a more robust immune system. Things we can do Avoid processed food - these foods usually contain harmful ingredients such as added sugars and palm oil, which are bad for you in the long run. Don't overeat - always limit your food intake, as overeating leads to obesity. Drink water and natural fruit juices, which are rich in nutrients. SHAKTI SANJEEVANI: Supplementary Nutrition Program Shakti Sanjeevani provides healthy and nutritious food items and drinks to our Shaktis. We give children anti-oxidant juice daily to children, which was developed by our Chief Empowerment Officer and former athlete, Hemangi, with the assistance of our dear cook, Bina Di. This juice, named Shakti Elixir Juice - is made with over 15 healthy and natural ingredients like Curry leaves, Amla, carrot, beetroot, apple, and many more. We provide them with chana, jaggery, bananas, and juice. As we know, these food items have full nutritional value. Chana is a good protein source, jaggery helps digestion, and banana, as we all know, is an energy supplier. A healthy body is formed with a nutritious diet, and Shakti Sanjeevani provides this healthy diet so that our Shaktis can reach their full potential. This nutrition day, Sarvam appeals to every one of you to consume nutritious food and spread awareness about Nutrition to your friends and family. Join the Sarvam Foundation to promote a healthy, nutritious diet! Written by: Raunak Yadav Proofread and edited by: Syed Noor Un Nisa

“Strength does not come from physical capacity; it comes from an indomitable will”              -Mahatma Gandhi The above quote of Gandhiji blends with Simran Rai’s life. Our Shakti, Simran Rai, a 12th-grade student from a small village Sikadenpur Ghosi in Harayana, does the unexpected. Head Girl at the prestigious Pine Crest School, a confident performer with over 80 stage appearances, and a rising star in the world of yoga and dance – her achievements paint a vibrant rainbow against a backdrop of battles. But how did a marginalized girl from a humble background, a household filled with the constant rhythm of chores, reach such heights? Challenges and Dreams Simran Rai lives in a small house with a room, kitchen, and bathroom wrapped closely together. Her father, a tireless street vendor, who sells chole kulche, and her mother, a devoted homemaker, work long hours, their dreams knotted with their children's. Simran's own dreams grow amidst this storm, and her strong determination keeps those dreams alive. Before dawn breaks, Simran is awake, her day revolves around school, Sarvam training, and library visits, and she returns home at 9 pm. She helps her mother prepare food for her father's stall and helps with household chores, snatches precious hours for homework amidst the hustle and bustle of home life, and sleeps only when the house finally falls silent. Simran’s strength within Simran finds strength in her challenges and her family's struggles shape her compassion and determination. Her parents, the biggest motivators in her life, beacons of optimism and support, recognized her boundless potential and sought every opportunity to nurture her dreams. When someone feels down, she motivates them and boosts their confidence. This extends even to the children at Sarvam, whom she motivates and encourages to learn. She believes in equality and treats everyone with equal respect. The storms in her life never sadden her. Instead, she attributes her dignified qualities to those hardships and considers the life she has, a gift. Now, as her family's greatest hope, Simran carries their belief in her, shouldering the load with a smile and a heart that never stops giving. The Guidance and Growth in Her Journey The clouds continue to float In Simran’s life but with the sun behind it. Her school, teachers, and Sarvam recognize Simran's remarkable potential, encouraging her every step of the way. The school and the teachers encourage her talent for English and provide the nourishment she needs to keep going. At Sarvam, she thrives in yoga and dance and is showing remarkable progress, fetching a place in Sarvam’s dance group. She feels that Sarvam is the decisive moment in her life and Ms. Hemangi Bhatnagar, Bina Di, and Vijay Bhaiya serve as her pillar of support. Bina Di taught her the importance of language and tone, and Vijay Bhaiya always motivates her to be better. The healthy meals and juice provided by Sarvam keep her strong and help her pursue her dreams. Deeply grateful, Simran is determined to give back to Sarvam and Ms. Hemangi. With her parents' encouragement, who deeply value Sarvam's impact, she helps in countless ways.  She stays up late helping in event preparation, assists with office work as she has an interest in management, and even contributes her creativity to Sarvam's media content. From Rain to Rainbow: Simran’s Rise ‘A rainbow is a promise of both sun and the rain’ The clouds that brought the rainstorm and the sun together produced a seven-colored arc in Simran’s life. Thanks to the firm belief of a teacher at her previous school, The Happy School, Simran secured a 100% scholarship to The Pine Crest School, one of Gurugram's finest educational institutions. This marked a turning point. Since joining Sarvam in 2019, she's performed over 80 times at prestigious venues and her first performance was a yoga performance at Silver Oaks.  Her initial fear of the stage has blossomed into leadership; she now guides and inspires many Shaktis. Simran's rise to Head Girl at her school shows her amazing growth and is a victory, given her background. She also won First Place in the School Annual Day Program this year 2024. Currently, she’s preparing for her higher studies and going to join as a teacher intern at The Heritage School for the academic year 2024-25 along with 4 other Shaktis. Such achievements have given her a boost of confidence and a new dimension to her life. More rainbows await! With a pure heart, clear intentions, and the courage to take on challenges, she will continue making her parents and everyone proud. Her willingness to work hard for 12 hours, even alongside household duties, shows her dedication to any cause that aligns with her passion. She Inspires a Generation Simran is a hard worker who never complains, despite her challenges. Her only concern? Time – 24 hours simply isn't enough for this ambitious girl.  Her parents, while not financially strong, are rich in love and continuously support her dreams. Their belief in her and their positive outlook has shaped her into the remarkable young woman she is. Simran's ambition to be a good human being is, perhaps, her most profound achievement. Her home life, and constant struggles, bring strength to her character. Day by day, she fights to become a respected independent woman, and her dedication inspires other girls facing similar hardships, proving that dreams can bloom even in the most difficult situations. We wish every household had parents like Simran's, so every child's dreams could be nurtured with the same love and belief. Written by: Shagunthala Ravi Proofread and edited by: Kritika Saraf

“If we don’t center the voices of the marginalized people, we are doing the wrong work.” - Tarana Burke In the era of advanced technology and rapid national growth, a segment of our society remains in need of improvement and access to essential resources. While other children joyfully attend well-equipped schools, these children are deprived of basic resources. Marginalised children face a harsh reality where their dreams are often shattered before they can even take flight. Denied quality education, they are trapped in a cycle of poverty and limited opportunities, their minds are filled by broken desks and outdated books instead of supportive teachers and engaging lessons. What if you were in their shoes, with a desire to learn but no resources to support you? How would you feel? Empowering marginalised children: In the shadows, millions of marginalised girls endure a silent battle against abuse, exploitation, and societal pressures, their voices are silenced by a world that overlooks their struggles. But this is not their destiny, we can change the narrative with these initiatives: Quality Education: Learn, Grow, Succeed. Healthcare: Healthy Body, Healthy Mind. Protection: Safe & Sound. Policy Reforms: Fairness for All. Economic Empowerment: Jobs & Opportunities. Social Inclusion: Embrace diversity Imagine a world where every child, no matter where he or she comes from, can chase his/her dreams. The stories of strength and resilience — Our Unbreakable Shaktis: Our proud Shaktis are no less than warriors,  they break down the barriers and shatter glass ceilings to reach the sky. Born into a world of hardship, Neelam's life has been a relentless roller coaster with adversity. Her mother, the sole provider, shoulders the weight of the family's financial struggles, her hands worn from years of tireless work. Her father, absent from the picture, casts a shadow over their lives, leaving a void that Neelam longs to fill with her own success. Yet, her spirit remains unbroken. With each graceful step she takes, Neelam confronts the odds, her firm determination is the gift within her. In her heart, she carries the weight of her family's struggles, yet her smile never fades. Read her complete story (https://www.sarvamshakti.org/post/18-year-old-neelam-s-resilience-is-an-inspiration)! Ujala, our blooming star– her story shows that you can overcome any challenge with hard work and never give up. Despite facing financial constraints and initial discouragement from her family, her love for dance was so strong that she secretly followed her dreams. Through hard work, dedication, and the support of her sister Gudiya, Ujala has not only excelled in her studies but has also become a gifted dancer, athlete, and artist. Her infectious energy and creative spirit continue to inspire those around her, proving that even the biggest challenges can be overcome with a smile and a determination to succeed. Like these super talented Shaktis, our 330+ Marginalised girls face a lot of struggles in their lives, yet manage to wear a smile and stamp their feet on them with their achievements. Our pillars – Shakti Sadhana and Shakti Strong are the traditional learnings that teach them classical dance and yoga. Shakti Speak and Shakti Shiksha teach them English and essential computer skills. Along with these learnings, we want our girls to be physically strong too, and provide nutritious food and drink (Shakti Sanjeevani). By empowering these girls, we can help them chase their dreams and reach their full potential. Can You Help Us Shine a Light? The journey of change starts with the courage and determination to help those in need. Imagine the possibilities if we all joined forces.  Your contribution, big or small, can make a world of difference. Donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word. Together, let's unlock the potential of these brilliant girls and bring sunshine to their days. Written by: Khushbu Soni Proofread and edited by: Syed Noor Un Nisa

Mother's Day fills our hearts with gratitude for the women who gave us life, and who raised us with unconditional love. But motherhood isn't defined solely by blood. It's the guiding hand, the constant belief, and the selfless dedication that nurture dreams into reality. Within Sarvam, this spirit finds its purest expression in the woman our Shaktis call "Aai". "Aai" isn't just a Marathi word for "mother." It carries a promise: a promise of warmth, of support, of a silent whisper that delivers, "You are loved, you are capable, you can achieve anything." It's a promise that stays deeply within our Shaktis. Hemangi Bhatnagar: The Shaktis "Aai" Ms. Hemangi Bhatnagar, our Chief Empowerment Officer, is the beating heart of Sarvam. She's also the mother of our founder, Ms. Nehha Bhatnagar, and that same boundless love flows towards every Shakti. The Shaktis fondly reserve the title "Aai" just for her. Hemangi represents that role with an encouraging smile, a tireless presence at every event, and a fierce determination to create opportunities. She notices the Shakti who needs an extra bit of care, the one who needs a gentle push to embrace a challenge. Like a mother away from home, her love knows no bounds. Motherly affection throughout Sarvam Hemangi is their "Aai", but along with her there are many others who shower our Shaktis with care. Ms. Alka Sondhi, our Lead Shakti for Digital Literacy, guides her students with a strong commitment. Ms. Chetna Kapur, who heads our nutritional initiatives, believes in nourishment for both body and soul. Ms. Bina Di, with her healthy juices and delicious food, strengthens the Shaktis to chase their dreams. And let's not forget Ms. Nanda Karmalkar, fondly known as Nanda Masi, Ms. Hemangi's sister.  A constant source of support for our senior Shaktis in Vasant Kunj and Gurgaon, Nanda Masi's dedication to improving their English language and communication skills has been invaluable. She shares her wisdom and warmth in Sarvam’s events and workshops and is dedicated to empowering our Shaktis. These women, and many others, weave a web of support that makes our Shaktis to blossom, step by step. They exhibit the same motherly affection that makes Hemangi such a beloved figure. Aadi Shakti: The power within all women We call our Shaktis just that: Shaktis. The reason? Each one is Aadi Shakti – a spark of the divine feminine, a mother of the Universe waiting to be unleashed. They are dignified to lead, to create, and to nurture a better world. It's this incredible potential that makes all the women within Sarvam fill a mother-like role. With their guidance and love, the Shaktis gain confidence, skills, and an unshakeable belief in their brilliance. Luka Chuppi: A song of unbreakable bonds There's a song that holds a sacred place in Sarvam's heart: "Luka Chuppi". “Luka chuppi bahut hui Saamne aa ja naa Kahan kahan dhoondha tujhe Thak gayi hai ab teri maa” Its bittersweet melody speaks directly to the mother-child relationship. When our Shaktis perform their moving dance, the air crackles with emotion. Tears well up in the audience, proof that a mother's love booms universally in all of us. An interesting story behind this picture In addition to all the incredible women at Sarvam, we are also blessed with mothers of our Shaktis Aishika Bhat and Shruthi, who have not only witnessed their daughters' transformations but have also become an integral part of our mission. With hearts full of gratitude for the empowerment their daughters found at Sarvam, they now selflessly dedicate their time and energy to uplifting other young women. They volunteer their time at our centers, mentoring and supervising the Shaktis on a rotating basis.  These mothers ensure that the center runs smoothly, filling the roles of mentors, supervisors, and administrators. With zero expectations for recognition, they are the epitome of selfless love, reminding us that a mother's heart extends far beyond her own family. A Thank You to Those Who Make It Possible As we celebrate these remarkable women, let's not forget the mothers, fathers, and families of our Shaktis. Their sacrifices and their belief in Sarvam's mission allow our community to provide such a transformative space. Every time a Shakti takes a confident step into the wider world, she carries not just her own strength, but the love of countless hearts that have shaped her journey. May this story serve as a reminder that the love and guidance of a mother can come in many forms. Let this Mother's Day be filled with endless gratitude to all who symbolize the spirit of motherhood in its purest form - those who nurture, believe in us, and shape us into the women we are meant to be. Written by: Shagunthala Ravi