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On 22nd November 2023, The Paxton Foundation, in collaboration with Air India, hosted a special event on "Saarthi Day"  at Vatika One on One, Gurugram. Five NGOs, including the Sarvam Foundation, were invited. 30  inspiring Shaktis from the Gurgaon chapter of the Sarvam Foundation participated in the event. The Shaktis took center stage with performances that echoed their commitment to preserving our natural world. It started with a speech, A shakti presented an impressive speech. On behalf of the group, she talked about their love for Mother Earth and stressed on importance of protection of the environment. Soulful Performances, A Tribute To Nature: The first performance was a semi-classical dance, along with the song "Na Kaato Mujhe Dukhta Hai." Through graceful movements and expressions, the Shaktis conveyed the beautiful message of the conservation of Mother Earth, emphasising the need to stop deforestation. Next, they brought energy and vitality to the stage with a dynamic  performance on the "Mission Paani Anthem," advocating for water conservation and celebrating the life-giving force of this precious resource. The final performance was a captivating yoga demonstration, accompanied by the song "Tik Tik Plastic," symbolizing the commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability. The Shaktis performance amazed everyone. The audience couldn't stop cheering as they were completely blown away. It was clear that the Shaktis had captured not just their attention, but their hearts, leaving a lasting impression! Mutual Respect and Appreciation: The Shaktis impressed everyone with their respectful manners and positive energy. Their talent, confidence, passion, and dedication earned loud cheers and applause. Their performances received high praise from other participating NGOs as well. Even the CEO of Boeing Co., Air India employees, and the Paxton Foundation organizers were left in awe of their talent and maturity. One of the organisers from The Paxton Foundation remarked that it was the first time she had seen girls who managed to perform with "so much in their heart." A Day of Growth and Exposure: The event provided a platform for the Shaktis to showcase their abilities and gain valuable exposure. They interacted with esteemed personalities from Air India, and Boeing Co.. They even had the chance to explore the inside of the Air India, Boeing Co., and simulator’s office, enriching their experience. It was a day not just of learning and excitement but of empowerment, affirming their potential, and opening new doors to their holistic development journey. The Shaktis enjoyed the delicious food and heartfelt conversations, which brought a big smile to their faces. A Stepping Stone to Success: This event was much more than just a celebration. It was a stepping stone to success for the Shaktis. They gained valuable exposure, interacted with influential figures, and had the opportunity to showcase their talents on a grand stage. This experience will undoubtedly empower them to continue reaching for their dreams and make a positive impact on the world. So next time you hear about the "Shaktis", remember them not just for their captivating performances, but for their passion, dedication, and bright futures! Grateful Reflections: As we reflect on the profound impact of Saarthi Day, we are reminded of the sacred bond between humanity and the Earth. Through their performances and impassioned words, the Shaktis have ignited a spark of hope and possibility, reminding us that together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for providing a platform for our Shaktis. Your support has empowered them to shine brightly and share their inspiring messages. Thank you for believing in their potential and helping to make "Saarthi Day" a truly memorable event for our Shaktis. To watch the video of this event, click on the link below: https://youtu.be/qS14VzeldLw?si=ZjU9AbOXIb5q7jX0 If you believe in empowering girls like our Shaktis, we welcome you to support us in our mission! Together, we can make a real difference in their lives and help them shine even brighter :) Written By: Syed Noor Un Nisa

Have you ever moved out of your hometown? Oh! Yes, it’s a tough decision to start anew but a surprising way to see great things in life. This is an inspiring story of our Shakti Kritika Chaudhary who moved from her hometown with an empty bag, filled it with surprising valuables, and continues to fill it.  Let’s delve and find out! SHE IS A BEAUTIFUL SAPLING Kritika and her family moved to Gurugram years back from West Bengal. At present, she lives with her parents and a brother in a small rented house in Sikanderpur Ghosi. Her father is a painter and her mother is a maid. She’s in 11th grade and her brother is in college. She is studying at P.M. Shri Government Senior Secondary School, Chakkarpur. Kritika is full of potential and always longing to achieve big in her life. She joined Sarvam Shakti in 2019. She got interested in dance and started learning Bharatnatyam. The Early Struggles Being relocated from a different state her major challenges at the early stage were the language and the level of confidence. She struggled with both Hindi and English and in turn, it affected her confidence in every aspect. The insecurity and the lack of trust made her parents turn down Sarvam and didn’t allow her to pursue dance initially. She never gave up and continued her practice despite their pressure. The struggle continued until the day of her first stage performance. After seeing her performance her parents felt very happy. She proved her potential to them that day and gained respect for herself. Then her parents along with Sarvam started encouraging and supporting her to achieve her dreams. A Day in Kritika’s Life Kritika wakes up early and gets ready for school. She eats breakfast helps with some household chores and goes to school. After school, she directly goes to Sarvam. In Sarvam, she practices dance and yoga. She takes computer and English lessons. Since she struggles with Hindi, she practices peaking in Hindi with everyone here. And then she goes back to home. Her tiny life rewards around her home school and Sarvam. Nourishments to the roots of the sapling Kritika was a quiet, introverted girl who considered anger and shedding tears often as her weakness when stepped into Sarvam back then, but never short of capabilities. She actively involved herself in learning dance yoga and languages. These learnings slowly started to create a positive impact on her body and mind. She can find a lot of changes in her personality, and behavior, and positive feeling of confidence and clarity. She started to get rid of her weaknesses and discover her strengths. Shakti Sanjeevani (nutritious food and drink) in Sarvam is adding strength to her body as well. She is starting to walk on the right road and framed three goals for her life. She wants to make her parents happy by buying a new house for them. She wants to help the people in need by starting an NGO like Sarvam. She wants to become a Bharatnatyam teacher. While marching towards these goals she said she wanted to turn the poor person to rich and fight and stand up for women’s suppression in interior parts of India if she had a superpower to change the world. She always feels happy and very grateful for Sarvam and proud of herself for traveling this long way. Blooming towards the Sunlight At times, Kritika loses confidence and decides to go back to her old self. Ms. Himangi Bhatnagar talks to her during those times boosts her confidence and reminds her about the path she travelled. A sapling can bend but never break and this paved the way for glorious moments in her life. Kritika always considers Miss Himangi Bhatnagar as her role model and she gets emotional seeing the care from her which is more than her mother’s care. She remembers her first performance which changed her life. She showcased a Bharatnatyam performance at Kingdom of Dreams, Gurugram, and received a lot of appreciation for her expressions and moves. Witnessing her blooming talents and skills, Kritika was selected as one of the five students for block level dance competition by her school where two schools competed. We take a pride moment here to announce that all those five students are Sarvam Shaktis! She won this competition and took her first successful step in her life. Second block level competition In this competition, six schools participated. She was too nervous as it was her solo performance for the first time. The stage fright made her forget a step at last, but she used the skills learned from Sarvam and managed beautifully and won first prize. District level She moved to compete at the district level following the win. It was held in Sadar Bazar Girls High School. Her efforts and perseverance fetched her first place at the district level too. She was all smiles and she met a few of her old teachers at the event. They were surprised to see her transformation and her talent in Bharatnatyam dance. All of them came forward to offer her help to achieve big in classical dance and they are overjoyed to see her growth. State-level Kritika advanced to state-level dance meet which was held in Panchkula, Punjab. She had to travel alone for the first time without her parents. She always expresses this heartwarming memory of Ms. Himangi Bhatnagar on how she called her every few hours and kept checking in on her. She worked very hard for this competition and met many talented competitors from all over India. She secured 4th position and felt very great to achieve this milestone. She gained a lot of experience and had an opportunity to meet great dancers who were the judges in the competition. Her parents are so proud to see the efforts and hard work she has given so far. Right from the moment she adopted Shakti Sadhana(dance) and Shakti Strong(yoga), she is showing a remarkable transition and getting recognition for her talents and moving towards her dreams. Remember the empty bag at the beginning? Kritika’s achievements so far are because of the confidence and the talent she is building, perseverance, and a healthy mind and body. These are the surprising valuables that are peeping out as leaves. This sapling is growing into a mature tree blossoming with leaves, fruits, and flowers and we continue to water it to achieve her dreams and she strives to provide shade and shelter to others like her in the future.

Aaiye sunte hain Neelam Ki Kahaani! #HumansOfShakti Neelam lives in Chakkarpur, Gurgaon with her mother and brother, in the toughest living conditions, that you and I can only possibly imagine. She was born in a small town of Bihar, Ratwarand and she is presently studying at PM Shri Government Model Sanskriti School, Chakkarpur, Gurgaon. In a largely patriarchal society where the father is considered the sole breadwinner of the family, she grew up in adverse financial conditions as her mother managed to assume the role of both parents while working and earning for her family as a housemaid. It's not easy, it is not at all easy. Her elder brother is a construction worker, hence, he is currently a big support for the family, income-wise. Together, they earn a modest monthly income of 8000 rupees, which makes it challenging to cover the daily household expenditures and Neelam's education expenses. DESPITE THE ODDS, NEELAM & HER FAMILY MANAGE TO FIND STRENGTH AND UNITY IN LIFE'S UPS AND DOWNS❤️ SARVAM SHAKTI IS HER SOURCE OF STRENGTH, SHE SAYS Neelam crossed paths with Sarvam Foundation in 2019. She has been a part of the Sarvam family for quite a few years now and has mastered her skills in yoga as well as dance, Kathak to be precise. Recently, during our Iskcon Temple visit for a stage performance, Neelam mentioned, "Didi, I am so happy that because of the performance opportunities at various venues, we get a chance to visit wonderful places like Isckon. I love traveling and it would not have been possible if I was not a part of Sarvam." It is not just the training in classical dance, yoga, ethics, values, and other life skills that matter, but the environment. At Sarvam, we ensure that our young girl children, not only receive the important skills training but also find peace, happiness, togetherness, friendship, respect, warmth, and comfort, which are not so common in their day-to-day lives at home and school. BEDROCK OF SUPPORT FOR THE SARVAM TEAM🤝 Sarvam Foundation's team and Neelam share a complementary relationship. She has played an instrumental role in helping us (the Sarvam team) smoothly take our organization's Sarvam Shakti project ahead. Right from helping Vijay Bhaiya maintain student records to assisting the Administrator with various office-related tasks, Neelam has always proved to be a gem. For Hemangi ma'am, Neelam is like her second daughter. They both share an inexplicable relationship of love and support. PERSISTENT LEARNER Bina Didi has always watched Neelam grow up as a persistent and hardworking young girl. Like other Shakti students, Neelam also starts her day at around 5:30 AM, helping her mother with all the household chores. She cooks food, cleans her home, washes the dishes, and then leaves for her school. Coming back from school, after some rest, she gears up for Sarvam classes dressed in Sarvam Shakti uniform. At the Gurgaon Sarvam Centre, she consistently learns Yoga, meditation, and classical dance from 3 PM to 6 PM. Her perseverance, dedication, and learning appetite are beyond comparison. Her go-getter attitude and all-time wide charming smile leave all of us in awe. Mrs. Hemangi says, "She is truly a golden heart, a pure soul, rare in today's world." LEADERSHIP SKILLS ARE THRIVING We have noticed some significant improvements in Neelam's skill set and personality, besides being a keen learner. Her leadership qualities are notably improving day by day. HOW? In the learning process, Neelam makes sure that her peers and juniors are also making the most of this opportunity. In the absence subject teacher, she takes charge of tutoring the others and is rather a very firm mentor. She is a huge pillar of support for this foundation where she voluntarily takes the responsibility to ensure that every student is actively present and participating in all the events of the foundation. She is always taking care of the attendance of other Sarvam students. CONSISTENT PRACTICE LEADS TO PERFECTION 📚✍️ Being a student at a government school where the English language is seldom practiced, she finds it difficult to communicate in English and often feels anxious about it. But she refuses to give in to these feelings and rather takes it as a challenge that she must overcome this weakness. She ensures to better it, by constantly communicating with her Sarvam friends and seniors in English. She takes online English classes from her teacher, religiously. She prioritizes attending classes, even in urgent situations, driven by a strong desire to learn quickly. Her proficiency in spoken English has remarkably improved with her constant hard work after following her teacher's instructions at Sarvam Shakti for the past couple of months, boosting her self-confidence. Now she can speak long sentences in the English language fluently, such as "Ma'am, tomorrow can I take leave? I have to help my mother at home." It is a fact, that she is one of the true hardworking Shaktis at Sarvam. Her mother is proud of her 😊 NEELAM'S SWEET MEMORIES Neelam cherishes her first Sarvam stage performance in Vasant Kunj, where she nervously performed Yoga on "Ae Vatan." Over 20 confident acts later, from speeches to dance and yoga, she reflects on her growth with a calm heart and steady feet. Neelam proudly recalls the sweet moment of happiness and pride she saw in the eyes of her close family members, especially her mother, Bina Didi, Vijay Bhaiya, and Hemangi Ma'am, back in 2021, when she earned a trophy for securing 1st place in a three-legged race at a sports event by the Inner Wheel Club district, at Thyagraj Stadium, New Delhi 🏆 WELL, NEELAM IS NOT ALWAYS BLUE 💙 Neelam, a name resonating with the deep blue hues of sapphire, isn't confined to a single shade. Beyond the blue, she paints her life with the strokes of hard work, dedication, love, respect, and honesty. Like an artist with her canvas, skillfully applies mehendi, weaving finesse and creativity into each design. IN OTHER WORDS, SHE IS A PALETTE OF DIVERSE HUES. Recently, on 'Karwa Chauth,' she applied Mehndi to the hands of the ladies of nearby residential societies and made a good income along with her Sarvam friends. "If the efforts are consistent and pure, opportunities are endless." THE WORLD THROUGH NEELAM'S EYES Neelam, the 18-year-old with big dreams, was asked, "What if you had superpowers?" Guess what? She wants to use her magic to fight against the unfair treatment of girls and make life better for women. She thinks early marriages are a big no-no. Despite being young, Neelam's thoughts are like savior plans – powerful and ready to make the world a better place! NEELAM HOLDS HER MENTORS IN HIGH REGARDS Neelam says, "Hemangi Aai, Bina Didi, and Vijay Bhaiya are like role models to me. I learn from them every day. Their support motivates me to keep working hard. I wish to make them and my mother proud." NEELAM IS THE SUNSHINE AT SARVAM, CONSTANTLY STRIVING FOR A BETTER TOMORROW:) She's working hard and always spreading love. No matter what, she faces everything with a smile. We hope to see her doing great on her own very soon. Right now, she's focused on getting better at English, and she's doing amazing. Her journey with Sarvam Shakti has been like a fun ride, helping her discover herself in new ways. Neelam is just a lovely soul, making everyone happy around her. She's growing and learning every day, and we can't wait to see where life takes her. Neelam's story is like a little light that can inspire so many. 🌈💕

On November 6, more than 20 girls called Shaktis performed together at an event organized by the Inner Wheel Club District 301 at the Iskcon Temple in Delhi. The girls enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere of the temple. They expressed their devotion to Kanha Ji through classical dance, moving gracefully to songs like #swagatamkrishna, #shrikrishnagovindharemurari, and #kanhare🎶. The best part of their visit to Iskcon was that it gave them a chance to showcase their talents on stage, boosting their confidence. It also allowed them to experience the beauty and spirituality of the temple, offering prayers to Radha and Krishna and feeling the peaceful energy of the place. It was a joyful and meditative day for them. Neelam, one of the girls, happily shared, "Didi, we would never get to explore such beautiful places without Sarvam. Today, we seize the opportunity to explore the world." Hearing this warmed my heart, realizing how these opportunities are not just fleeting moments but cherished memories that enrich their lives. Sarvam is happy to empower dreams & hearts❤️ #unforgettablememories The Inner Wheel Club generously donated more than 100 yoga mats for our Shaktis, a touching gesture. This visit was more than an event; it deepened our connection with Lord Krishna and his teachings, instilling values of love, respect, and cooperation. Write-up: Kritika Saraf Picture credits: Nitin Rawat

Full of joys and a bright smile, she is a 15-year-old Shakti, currently studying in 10th grade at Senior Secondary Government School, Chakkarpur, Haryana. Undeniably, her name perfectly resonates with her personality. #HumansOfShakti MUSHKIL HAI PAR NAMUMKIN NAHI Muskan, whose life journey with Sarvam Foundation started in 2019, dwells in the nearby urban slum of Sarvam Space in Gurgaon, where she and her family live their lives in tough living conditions. Her father works as an autorickshaw driver and her mother is a housewife. Life is hard as many auto driver bhaiyas struggle to make ends meet and also there is a lot of responsibility on the daughter of the home to do the cooking. cleaning, washing. She gets beaten up by an older brother too but her mother often covers it up by insisting that it is the way boys show love. The two elder brothers do love her, however, Sarvam has on many occasions explained to the parents that violence is never the way to show love. Muskan does share some pleasant moments with her parents and siblings though. And like every family anywhere, they too are facing their share of life's challenges. SARVAM IS FORTUNATE TO BE HER LIFE'S SUPERPOWER But these challenges neither stop Muskan from learning new things nor decrease the support she receives from her parents, to study, learn dance, and Yoga. She says she receives enough support from her friends at Sarvam too and she is always excited about coming for classical dance, Yoga, Spoken English, and Computer practices, at the Sarvam center, as she feels these skills are adding to her knowledge and confidence daily. During our conversation with one of her friends Simran, it was revealed that she excels in the realm of mudras, and displays precision and elegance while using her hands during the classical and semi-classical dance rehearsals and performances. Even Muskan told us, how much she loves to choreograph the dance pieces. Besides, she is always dedicated and aims to improve her conversation skills in the English language. and Computer learning. Her daily routine is a testament to her dedication. Her day starts at around 6 AM when she quickly completes her morning routine and rushes to school so that she isn't late. After returning from school by 2:45 PM, she helps her mother with a few household chores. She gears herself to reach Sarvam Center by 4 PM, where she learns Hatha Yoga, meditation, Bharatanatyam & Kathak. She tells us that she and her family have witnessed positive changes in her personality concerning her confidence, self-esteem, body flexibility, and mental calmness. Her evenings after classes at Sarvam are mostly dedicated to supporting her mother, spending time with her family members, and completing her homework before bedtime. Her smile narrates her story so strongly. Isn't it? STRENGTH AND GROWTH We still remember the day at Leela Hotel, when Muskan burst out in tears when she was badly scared after her mother called up to ask why she was not back at home till then. It was quarter to 8, and the Shakti girls had just ended up with their dance and Yoga performance. "She remains devoted to her art and education, displaying persistence and consistency", says Mrs. Hemangi Bhatnagar who is lovely called Aai by all the Shaktis at Sarvam. While Muskan has not fallen in love with the taste of Sarvam Shakti Juice yet:D, she's convinced that daily intake of one glass of juice has changed her life for good. GONE ARE THE DAYS WHEN SHE USED TO FALL SICK VERY FREQUENTLY!! But, behind the scenes, sometimes, Muskan playfully satisfies her junk cravings, during the events. She has been often caught by her dear Aai and Bina Didi, but they lovingly let these mischiefs slide because she is quite self-motivated to come back on her track. She fills her daily nutrition gap by eating bananas, drinking Shakti juice, and munching on wholesome snacks like Gud and Chana. At home, it's all about dal, rice, veggies, and roti. In her four years here, she's mastered the art of avoiding outside packaged junk food, but sometimes, she gives in to her cravings:D "In a world full of lost hopes, Muskan stands out as an inspiring figure. She practices Bharatnatyam with joy, does yoga, and even boosts her English skills through virtual ETP classes. She's a brave learner, setting a positive example for all.

#HumansOfShakti Adrika, a nine-year-old little gem, studies in 3rd grade at Vidhya School in Nathupur, Gurgaon, Haryana. She resides with her mother, a housewife, her three-year-old younger brother, and her father, who manages to earn a survival-sufficient monthly income. She shares a very close relationship with her family members. Being a little girl who has yet to experience the world at large, Adrika feels fortunate enough to not have faced any significant challenges till now. MEETHI ADRIKA KE MEETHE SAPNE As every child is asked, “Bade hokar kya banoge beta?”, the curious little Adrika too was once asked about her aspirations in life, to which she remarked how deeply fascinated she was, after witnessing the recent success of Chandrayan 3 mission and aspires to be a scientist one day. SARVAM SHAKTI - HER LITTLE SOURCE OF JOY & LIFETIME LEARNING She joined the Sarvam Foundation three years ago, at the age of six, and has beautifully mingled with the Shakti family, the senior, middle, and junior students. She started her journey at Sarvam as a dancer and has been studying Bharatnatyam, a pure form of classical dance, with great enthusiasm. Primarily, she started taking her lessons in Kathak, but being a curious learner, her interest shifted to Bharatnatyam, which she is gradually mastering. Shakti Adrika had stepped onto the stage, performing Yoga on the song "Ae Vatan" live for the very first time. With all eyes on her, she felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Despite the jitters, she delivered a wonderful performance, gaining confidence that fueled her through ten more events, always with a beaming smile. One special memory takes her back to the day she danced to the tunes of "O Palanhaare." Till today, the memories of continuous cheers she had received for the abovementioned performance, boost her ambitious spirit. ADRIKA KI ANOKHI PEHCHAAN What makes this little girl an exception among her peers is her unique ability to perform yoga and dance, particularly Bharatnatyam. Her body flexibility often startles the audience. She can perform both yoga and dance quite adeptly. Instead of spending her time at liberty, wandering here and there or engrossing herself in gadgets which most of the children in today’s generation do, she chooses to spend her days unleashing her potential. She is a chotu packet, bada dhamaka:D A DAY IN ADRIKA’S LIFE She begins her day by waking up in the morning, freshening up, and then heading to school. She returns home at 2:30 p.m. and then proceeds to prepare herself for her daily activities at Sarvam. At Sarvam, she engages in a half-hour yoga session from 5-5:30 p.m. and subsequently participates in her dance classes. Besides learning dance, she has also joined her classes for yoga and computers to learn and enhance her skills in these domains as well. Finishing her hectic schedule, she eagerly waits for the shakti juice filled with healthy nutrients along with gur-chana. Consuming it regularly has significantly enhanced her immune system, making her less prone to diseases. Following this, she concludes her day. On some days, she also partakes in the workshop conducted at Sarvam. SOME NOTICEABLE CHANGES IN ADRIKA AFTER BECOMING A SHAKTI Before she became a part of this family, her Spoken English was very weak and she used to get low grades in the subject because of which her parents were disappointed in her. However, upon joining the English classes at Sarvam, she has shown significant improvements in the language, so much so, that she has even delivered quite a few speeches in English on many occasions held at Sarvam. Her feelings of nervousness and anxiety have now given way to her feelings of self-confidence. We are hopeful that she will master this skill as well. ADRIKA'S COMPASSIONATE CALLING When you ask a nine-year-old, “If you had any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?”, you generally get responses like “I would like to fly” or “I would like to be a Batman or a Superman and so on”. But this girl is different, unlike most of the children. When she was asked this question, she responded by saying that if she ever got superpowers then she would use them to help the poor people out of their miseries. She has seen so many people around her suffering from poverty that she feels deeply sad about it and would change it at any opportunity she gets. She would also guide the misguided children, making them realize their rights and wrongs, as she has seen most of her peers in school being misled to the wrong path and its negative consequences. ADRIKA TELLS US, SARVAM IS HER NEW FAMILY Adrika says that Sarvam is a perfect platform where one can enjoy and learn new skills every day. The foundation has welcomed this little soul with such warmth that she loves being a shakti now and looks forward to regularly spending her time with her newfound family. She loves attending her classes at Sarvam, which is significantly transforming her into a better person every day. Being a part of this journey, she has also become more respectful. She always feels like she is surrounded by individuals whose hearts are filled with kindness and compassion. She has also expressed her heartfelt gratitude towards Simran Didi, Indrajeet Didi, and Hemangi Ma’am as they have been her consistent motivation in this journey, teaching her some unforgettable life lessons every single day. Adrika loves Hemangi Aai, for she always boosts up her confidence whenever she feels down and guides her towards the path of success. Inderjeet Didi and Simran Didi, as she mentioned are her guiding mentors, she adores, according to her are the driving forces toward her proficiency in Yoga and Dance. They make learning for her very enjoyable and interesting. Adrika is a curious little ray of sunshine, lighting everyone up around her with her giggles and her mischievousness. As a learner, she is very sincere and willingly acquires new skills regularly. As a nine-year-old child, her determination to learn with such seriousness surprises everyone around her. She is always willing to reflect upon her mistakes and learn from them. When needed, she also takes up the charge of ensuring discipline around her, even if it means correcting her seniors. She is a dedicated child with big aspirations who is bound to achieve wonders in her life if she continues to evolve like this. Blog writing credit: Ms. Soumi Chakraborty Ideator & Editor: Ms. Kritika Saraf

Janmashtami, the beloved festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, is the event everyone eagerly anticipates each year. Janmashtami is celebrated throughout India, with some regions marking it as a grand spectacle while others observe it more spiritually. This year, we celebrated our Krishna Janmashtami with the residents of Belmonte Apartments and Magnolias in Gurugram. Here's a recap of what transpired on September 7th. To start, we set off for Belmonte at 4:15 p.m., brimming with excitement as we traveled in our four-wheeled vehicles. Upon our arrival at Belmonte, accompanied by Mrs. Hemangi, Ms. Kritika, and Mr. Vijay, the attendees were captivated by the splendid decorations and aesthetics of the venue. The event was held in an indoor hall, and as soon as we reached, the performances commenced. It all began with a welcoming address, delivered by one of our Shaktis dressed as Krishna. The event's energy soared with each subsequent performance by our Shaktis. Three songs graced the stage: "Swagatham Krishna," "Mural Ki Dhun Sunn Radhike," and finally, "Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari." These spiritually soothing songs, coupled with the performances of our Shaktis, created a divine ambiance all around. Following the speeches and dance performances, Mrs. Geethi, the Chief member of Belmonte, expressed her gratitude to Sarvam Shakti for our outstanding contributions. The audience was so delighted and impressed that one of the society members stepped onto the stage and offered to provide clothing for the Shakti dancers and teachers at Heritage School. She also encouraged everyone to support the Sarvam Foundation in any way they could. Witnessing people embrace our vision and acknowledge our efforts was a heartwarming experience for all of us. Amid the applause and accolades from the Belmonte residents, we collected 2-3 testimonials. One of these testimonials came from a senior citizen who was a close friend of Mrs. Hemangi. He commended the Shaktis and everyone who had contributed to this event. As for the progress of our Shaktis, they have shown significant improvement since our performances on August 15th. Their dance and speeches were flawless. The event concluded at 5:30 p.m., and as we chanted Lord Krishna's name, we bid farewell to Belmonte and headed to our next destination. Our next destination was The Magnolias, where our Shaktis were ready to reprise their acts with the same enthusiasm and dedication. It seemed that everyone had caught the Janmashtami fever. We arrived at the location at 6:30 p.m. The Magnolias venue was also beautifully adorned, and the event was organized outdoors. Our Shaktis faced some challenges due to the small size of the stage, as the acts involved 10-15 Shaktis performing simultaneously, and there were concerns about dancers accidentally falling off the stage. Despite these challenges, our dancers gave their best and adapted to the situation, which is precisely what Sarvam had trained them for – to handle difficulties with grace. They performed the same songs and speeches as before, and the audience's response was equally enthusiastic. People were impressed and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the performances. After recording 2 testimonial videos, each Shakti was presented with a flower bouquet and delectable cupcakes courtesy of The Magnolias' members. In summary, Janmashtami festival day was a resounding success for Sarvam Shaktis. We not only showcased our skills but also made this Janmashtami one to remember for others. We hope that Lord Krishna himself enjoyed our Shaktis' performances. India is a land of festivals, and these celebrations provide us with a reason to come together and experience joy. So, let us all be happy and chant "Jai Shri Krishna!" Look at the glimpse of the shows on our YouTube channel! https://youtu.be/AUHjJ-C6Fww?si=AemowFMlkpXt9ne2

CHHOTE BACCHE, DIL KE SACCHE ❤️ The Shaktis, with pure hearts dedicated to hard work and aspirations, resiliently face life's challenges, finding joy in little moments and opportunities. Sarvam is grateful to be a ray of hope for these sweet, pure-hearted young girls, made possible by the resolute support of our generous backers. As we strive to empower, we're reminded: "Empower a girl, empower a nation." November 14th is observed as Children’s Day every year, commemorating the birth anniversary of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. His enduring presence is cherished, reflecting his contribution to the nation and deep affection for children. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of educating and nurturing children with love and care. We celebrated Children's Day with our Shaktis at our centers, filled with fun, healthy food, and clothes distribution. The Shaktis began their meals with a prayer, expressing gratitude for the food. Spinach Pakoda and Bajra Halwa, cooked by our skilled cook Bina Didi, were the nutritious delights of the day. https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0958kBLL73/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Amidst a bunch of pictures, giggles, and waves of laughter, Vijay Bhaiya and Bina Didi worked tirelessly to make this day memorable for the Shaktis. Mrs. Alka Sondhi, a core team member for Shakti Shiksha, joined us in distributing snacks to our Shaktis. Simple acts of kindness, result in big smiles💕 It was a day to remind the girls of their significance within the foundation. Komal, the adorable sister of our junior Shakti, Suhaani, also joined us in the Children's Day celebration. At just 2 years old, she's eager to learn meditation, yoga, classical dance, and English. Her parents aspire to send Komal to the Sarvam center, impressed by the positive changes in Suhaani's overall personality and well-being. As an organization, we feel truly grateful to nurture girls in a way that motivates and inspires families and communities to embrace the power of their daughters, their true feminine strength, SHAKTI:) Every year, we celebrate and spread happiness and love at our learning centers by celebrating Children's Day with our Shaktis. This day is especially important as it emphasizes the need to provide equal opportunities and protect all girls from discrimination. Any blog reader willing to come forward and donate to our Shaktis would be a huge help. Your contribution, whether in the form of donations, volunteering, stage support, or monetary support, is appreciated as a form of Shakti Seva. Even a modest contribution can have a profound effect on a Shakti. Please refer to the accompanying link to donate: (https://www.sarvamshakti.org/support-us)

We are incredibly proud of our first Shakti batch and the amazing senior Shaktis for lighting up the stage at the Indian Habitat Centre in Delhi. On 13 October, in the evening, our six seniors, Simran, Anjali, Shivani, Shweta, Priyanka, and Jyoti poured their hearts into a beautiful 12-minute Bharatanatyam performance, the purest form of classical dance. The audience, along with Guru Raja Choudhary Ji, showered them with applause and cheers at the event. It was a heartwarming moment that filled their Aai (Mrs. Hemangi Bhatnagar) with pride and happiness. The girls performed the 12-minute dance piece on the fusion of 5-6 songs (Shiva Shakti: theme), choreographed and taught by our beloved Bharatanatyam Guru, Ms. Mridula Nambiar. She regularly conducts Bharatanatyam classes for our Shaktis at both the Delhi and Haryana centers, where they learn the refined skills of this beautiful dance form. Ms. Mridula also accompanied the Shaktis, playing an integral role in their nervous journey to the stage. Shaktis' support and motivation were further amplified through an introductory speech on the dance piece, that was given by their Bharatnatyam guru. Such events hold their essence not just as sources of opportunities but also as avenues for the exploration of diversity and culture. Coming from marginalized communities, it is never easy for them to manage all in a cup (consistent rehearsals, household chores, internship, college, and school classes, and school studies). The love and respect they received from the audience touched the very core of their hearts. As they say, "Little by little, one walks far." These Shaktis, step by step, are creating a brighter tomorrow. To view the Shakti Bharatanatyam performance video, kindly click on the following link. You will be redirected to the YouTube video: https://youtu.be/YVHakD2Ddb0?si=yF_PnlNq8KMbQjdd

Picture this: over 40 amazing Shaktis from Sarvam Shakti taking center stage at Apparel House, Sector-44, Gurgaon. They danced their hearts out at the BJP Social Media Volunteer Meet, creating magic with a fusion of Kathak and Bharatnatyam on the song "Ekdantaya Vakratundaya." These incredible Shaktis brought so much life to the stage, and guess what? They didn't stop there! Next up was a powerful classical dance performance on the song "Maa Tujhe Salaam," where their clear steps and sharp, fine expressions stole the hearts of many, seated in the audience. The secret sauce behind these energetic and confident performances is just hard work and sheer dedication. The Shaktis put in the effort day in and day out. Every dance, speech or Yoga opportunity becomes a stepping stone in their journey, boosting their confidence and propelling them toward bigger dreams. Ms. Nanda Karmalkar and Ms. Hemangi Bhatnagar had accompanied Shaktis to the event house, to be the forces of encouragement. Let's talk about Shakti's power🔥 These girls are like unstoppable forces of nature. No challenge is too big, and no stage is too daunting. Because of the daily rigorous training at the Sarvam center, the confidence and strength of the girls have taken flight. They now have the spirit to turn each performance into a celebration. You know what's the best part? It's not just about the dance. It's about the confidence that blossoms with every stage show. These Shaktis are not just dancers; they are a family, a powerhouse of talent, and each performance is a validation of their unbreakable bond. Want to witness the magic yourself? Check out the YouTube video -(https://youtu.be/PkUnsbRVDQI?si=4WknG1ZdhBGYW9sF). In the spirit of #womenempowerment and #girlsempowerment, Shaktis at Sarvam Foundation are breaking barriers, celebrating their uniqueness, and setting the stage on fire with the art of hard work. Stay tuned for more stories of these incredible Shaktis, proving that with each dance, they are stepping into a brighter, bolder future. #classical #bharatanatyam #kathak #respect #selfworth #bjp #volunteermeet.

Henna Tales : An Ink Of Culture Henna art, popularly called as Mehndi in India, takes a centre stage during cultural functions as it is symbolic of Indian culture. It has a history that goes back about 5000 years ago. Originating from Egypt & Middle East, the henna art tradition spread slowly to the Indian subcontinent and other parts of the world. "MEHNDI" is thought to represent happiness, beauty, and spiritual enlightenment. Mehndi is believed to act as a protective shield against evil spirits and a source of blessings. In many wedding traditions, the bride's hands and feet are decorated with alluring mehndi designs to represent beauty, auspiciousness, and to wish the newlyweds luck as they embark on their new life together. The tradition of applying mehndi may have considerably evolved over time, but it continues to be an integral part of celebrations and ceremonies in many cultures where people express their cultural identity and creativity. Cultural Palette, Karwa Chauth & Mehndi Function In Hinduism, "Karwa Chauth" is a fasting ritual observed by married Hindu women. It is a day-long fast that women undertake for the well-being and longevity of their husbands. Mehndi is an important part of Karwa Chauth ritual, as it is symbolic of women's ornamental beauty and love. Just the day before the Karwa Chauth function, ladies get their hands painted with the color of mehndi, in the most beautiful patterns. This year, the ladies of various Gurgaon societies & condominiums (Exotica, Aralias, Camelias, Belmonte), and the Inner Wheel Club ladies, who have always been a huge support for our organization's vision, invited sarvam girls to apply mehndi designs on their palms. Six Shaktis, "Neelam", "Anu", "Kusum", "Viveka", "Muskan" & "Anshu", got a wonderful opportunity to assume the role of henna artists. Filled with enthusiastic eyes, the girls reached the desired location on 31st October at around 11:30 a.m in the morning. They were given a warm welcome. After some relaxation and food, the girls began applying henna on the graceful hands of these ladies. Their persistent hard work and hours of patience had paid off as the event turned out to be a huge success where the girls could achieve a milestone by earning a noteworthy amount for themselves. They even received numerous heartfelt compliments from the women. Shakti Hunar & Honsla Few of the the ladies were actually so impressed with the kind of designs that the sarvam girls had applied, that they were taken aback by their HUNAR AND HONSLA. Of course, it isn't easy to manage all. Managing household chores at home, financial constraints, lack of resources and facilities, school homework, sarvam dance and yoga training, english classes, marriage pressure, as well as new skill development. It takes courage to balance all, at such a tender age. This event will an important chapter in their books of memories and experiences, and it will remain imprinted in the girl’s lives because it was not just an opportunity to bravely use their creativity to earn, but also brought with itself a chance to feel confident and realize the power of self-worth. Reflecting back on this rewarding day, the shaktis extended their deep appreciation towards the core members, Mrs. Hemangi Bhatnagar and Mrs. Alka Sondhi (Core Team Member - Shakti Shiksha Lead) as this event would not have been possible without the initiative taken by the core members. Mrs. Alka Sondhi who has been a consistent support for the foundation for many years, single-handedly encouraged the other team members of the foundation to generate and promote flyers and posters in various societies and condominiums of Gurgaon, where the Shaktis' Henna artistry skills were evidently highlighted. She played a major role in spreading the word about Sarvam Foundation and its talented shaktis which made the entire event a huge success and even made sure that the girls were served with some mouth watering dishes as well. Mrs. Hemangi ma’am took the entire responsibility of ensuring that the girls reach their desired destinations safe and sound and constantly motivated them and cheered them up. It truly was a day to reminisce. Written & Edited by : Ms. Soumi Chakraborty & Ms. Kritika Saraf

Naman to Lord Ganesha (Vignaharta) 🙏 The entire Sarvam team, hand in hand with the Shakti girls, went to The Community Centre in Sector-27 on September 27 to partake in the Ganesh Utsav performance program. The Maharashtra Club had graciously invited them to be a part of this vibrant event. The morning sun had risen with the promise of a great day, yet as time played its own tune, the Shakti performance began at 1:30 pm. Dancing to the Rhythm of Gannayaka The stage lit up with vibrant energy as the Shaktis gracefully moved in their kaleidoscopic dance costumes. Their classical dance presentation was a blend of Kathak and Bharatanatyam, the girls danced in harmony with the devotional song "Gannayaka". Dressed in their new jewelry sets, the junior Shaktis gleamed with excitement, as their young hearts beat to the rhythm of their first stage performance. It's a beautiful feeling, watching their potential flourish on such a grand canvas. Yoga with Grace on the song Gajanana The dance was a testament to the Shaktis' artistic talents, and their yoga routine was an exhibit of their strength, confidence, and coordination. The rhythmic yoga flowed with grace and the audience was complete spellbound. Pooja, one of our experienced Shaktis, shines bright as a star in self-choreographing rhythmic yoga performances for the group. Her growth at Sarvam is inspiring. She crafts her dance routines and fills us with pride, becoming a role model for the junior girls who love learning from her. The spectators' applause and cheers weren't just sounds but a warm embrace, lifting the spirits of the Shaktis and the entire Sarvam team, igniting their resolve and enthusiasm to forge ahead. The Beauty of Uniformity In their red and black Sarvam uniforms, the yoga girls stood as a symbol of unity and discipline. The Sarvam team, accompanied by Mrs. Hemangi Bhatnagar (Chief Empowerment Officer), Mrs. Nanda Karmalkar (Sarvam Shakti Bangalore Chapter Head), Vijay Kumar (All-rounder office bhaiya), Miss Kritika Saraf (Project Manager), and Vivek Singh Rana (Videographer & Editor), ensured that the event flowed seamlessly. Journey Filled with Joy and Generosity The journey to and from the venue was a delightful chapter in itself, filled with laughter and memories. Vijay Bhaiya and Vivek became the unofficial photographers, capturing countless pictures and selfies. The Ganesh Mandal had thoughtfully arranged prasadam, urging the Shaktis to partake before leaving. The meal was not just filling; it was a taste of gratitude for a day well spent. Touching Hearts and Inspiring Generosity The Ganesh Utsav committee was so touched by the performance that they decided to donate 5000 rupees to support Sarvam's mission. Moreover, an individual spectator stepped up, contributing a similar amount, along with encouraging words that warmed hearts and fueled the Shaktis' determination. In the Footsteps of Lord Ganesha As we reflect on this heartwarming day, we can't help but draw parallels between Lord Ganesha, the Vignaharta (remover of obstacles), and the Shaktis. Much like Lord Ganesha embodies strength and resilience in the face of challenges, our Shaktis continue to shine despite the hurdles they face in their marginalized backgrounds. Their journey is a testament to the relentless spirit that empowers them to overcome obstacles with grace and determination. A Day to Remember In the spirit of Ganesh Utsav, this day was a beautiful reminder that unity, courage, and talent can create magic on any stage. With each performance, the Shaktis grow stronger, and Sarvam's mission marches on. As we look back on this unforgettable day, we're filled with gratitude for the generous hearts that support and celebrate these incredible young women. Watch the Ganesh Utsav YouTube video to get a deeper glimpse of the day - https://youtu.be/3ujtlPJTfyg?si=AshPkRzVbNKB_aqN Written by: Ms. Kritika Saraf (Project Specialist & Administration Head)