I look back at the journey in Snehadhara and it is amazing. It is at the core of my heart, of what I’m doing. It is also my safety net” says Varahalakshmi, fondly known as Vidya.
Snehadhara is something that happened to me after a long time of waiting. I was looking to work with children with needs and grow from this. It was Sumathi who recommended the ABT course after I met her. The experience of the course was very different, just being with myself, understanding what was going on for me – it was very clear that I had that this is the right course for me. It all came together for me in my head. There are thing that Gitanjali ji and Sumathi have said that are clear in my head; I could quote them event now and will hold it dear for my life. They’re my mentors, my celebrities and happy people.
One thing Snehadhara does for the community and me is connections – connecting people by holding the space and through art. I just try to watch and learn, try to understand and mimic this. Snehadhara has taught and reminded me this, staying grounded. Rather than trying to change systems, I’ve come to an understanding through ABT and API that that’s not what it is. I can still meet a person where the person is in all walks of life. The other thing I’ve learnt is freedom. There is no right or wrong in art, only the freedom to express. Finally, Snehadhara has been about personal growth for me. Letting go of trying to keep a certain image of myself, I learnt that it’s ok to take a pause, be confident.
From Snehadhara, there is a strong impact on the student community. I’ve heard the impact it has had on them. My journey now as a supervisor has led to strengthening this. My desire going forward is to bring more parent and student communities to Snehadhara and be a lifelong learner here.
What is Humans of SF?
This is a series on the humans of SF; an attempt to celebrate each of the people who make Snehadhara whole. Novelist Anne Sewell said “It is good people who make good places.” And amongst the many good people in this world, there are some here at Snehadhara who make up this good place. We are ecstatic to bring to you glimpses of the Snehadhara team. Join us as we delve into the stories of people who stand for SF.