I have started a library in Green park Main M block, mainly for underprivileged students after being an educator for over 25 years.
I grew up in Jaipur and studied in the prestigious residential school MGD girls school. The school taught me the motto- ‘Utmost for the highest’, which has remained my motto for my life. After graduation from a Delhi University college, I got married and moved to smaller towns for a posting with my husband. I remained active in social welfare even in small towns by getting involved in Red Cross activities and Bal wadis of smaller districts.
While growing up I had seen my father getting involved in many social welfare groups and activities and my inspiration came from there. I always wanted to make some difference in the lives of people, especially children in some manner. I have always believed that children are the mirrors of our future.
After teaching in The British School for 25 years I realized the importance of stories and books being an important medium for expression for children. Curriculum becomes a forceful learning which all children need to do to pass an exam but how do you inculcate fun learning through books is a greater challenge.
This is where my library – Udaan project came from. The reading room idea was conceived in my mind as I retired from my profession as an educator. I had already seen while teaching in a school, how reading transforms children’s imagination, taking them to a different realm and world. The stories become real for them and it allows them to think out of the box and takes them away from sometimes mundane curriculum materials. It also gives them confidence to look at the world through pictures and use their own words to create a narration. English speaking is also included with story listening and storytelling.
As I needed a room to start this – my dream was fulfilled by Mr. Sachin and Mrs. Satinder Sachdeva by offering a room in their mothers house. The dream became a reality.
The project had many people contribute and the community came together in the true sense. Ashika, a young girl from Sri Ram school, made a beautiful painting on the wall which inspired me to keep the name Udaan, Aditi Chopra and many others contributed with Carpet and cushions, books, and the project was on its way.
We have started small and there have been a few hiccups but continue to grow to benefit the students who will enjoy using this space. The library is envisaged as a space for all kids now. With the help of the community members, I plan to expand for privileged and disadvantaged kids as there is a great collection of books thanks to a lot of people.
