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Lessons from a child: Simple choices, Big changes

This morning during our school assembly, I took a moment to appreciate the children who celebrated a Green Diwali by choosing not to burst firecrackers. I asked them how they used the money they would have spent on crackers, and their answers were wonderful. Some said they donated to old age homes, others saved it for future class trips, and a few bought plants and some even gifted it to others. Each response was thoughtful and heartfelt. To add to the conversation, I shared a little conversation between two boys, Ram and Shyam. Ram celebrated Green Diwali, avoiding crackers entirely, while Shyam argued that if people stopped buying crackers, it might harm the livelihoods of those small children who work in the firework industry. I asked the children, “If you were Ram, how would you respond to Shyam?” One of our 8-year-olds stepped forward and said, “If we don’t buy crackers, they don’t have to make them.” Such a simple, profound response! This child captured the essence of something w
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Co existence fr survival

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In the 1960s, those born during that era, now in their 70s and 80s, viewed development as more roads, buildings, and industries. Their focus was on tangible growth and infrastructure. However, with the onset of the 2000s and the undeniable impact of climate change, our understanding of development has shifted dramatically. Today, people in their 40s and 50s must redefine what development means. In the current context, development is intertwined with our responsibility to nurture a harmonious relationship with nature. We must instil this new definition in the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, who are now in their 20s and 30s. While the previous generation saw mountains as mere resources for minerals and forest produce, today's generation must learn to view forests as partners in a symbiotic relationship. At Agastya Academy, our mission is to plant the seeds of this coexistence in young minds. We believe that by doing so, we are equipping them with the necessary kno
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choosing a career?

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This  the time of the year where discussions about colleges and courses dominate conversations in most households . Majority of students seem drawn to AI-related courses. Reflecting on my own journey from 32 years ago,  I scored well in my 12th grade, and  I took computer science because it was the " in thing " at that time. I was part of the second batch of computer science engineering at PSG College of Technology. Yes, I followed the crowd and took the course. However, during my third year, an internship with Wipro made me realize that spending the rest of my life in front of computers wasn't my calling. I always enjoyed spending time with people. Thankfully, marriage redirected my path. Now, 32 years later, I wake up every morning looking forward to my work because my profession is my passion.  The core message from my experience is simple. When you find yourself, your strengths, and what you are naturally good at, you never get  tired of what you are doing. This ins
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mankind meddling with nature

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As I sat on the veranda of our farmhouse very early in the morning, watching a magpie tirelessly dart back and forth to feed its young, a wave of contemplation washed over me. It made the journey of 15 to 20 times and each time the bird returned with a worm clenched in its beak. I couldn't shake the thought of how our human actions have disrupted the delicate balance of nature. In our pursuit of agricultural efficiency, we use harmful insecticides that indiscriminately wipe out the very creatures that sustain the ecosystem. The consequence? Birds like this magpie struggle to find food for their offspring. It's a stark reminder of how disconnected we've become from the natural world around us. I couldn't help but reminisce about a time, perhaps a century ago, when agriculture operated in harmony with nature. Crops grew without synthetic chemicals, inviting insects and birds to thrive in a symbiotic relationship. Birds of prey would swoop down to feast on pest
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A visionary par excellence

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Mr. Vilas Shinde, founder and chairman of Sahyadri Farms at Nashik, leads the country's largest Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) with 25,000 farmers. After a pilgrimage to Shirdi, I had the golden opportunity to meet him at his corporate office , and the two hours I spent there was truly a remarkable experience. Mr.Shinde's story is compelling; after completing his agricultural engineering degree, he wanted to venture into full time farming . Realizing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers with only 2-3 acres of land, he formed an FPO with just 10 farmers. Today, over 25,000 farmers and more than 25,000 acres of land are part of this organized cultivation initiative. During our conversation, what struck me profoundly was Mr.Shinde's perspective on the treatment of farmers in our country. He emphasized that farmers shouldn't always rely on subsidies and should be regarded as entrepreneurs. His vision aims to transform the lives of farmers, ensuring
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A Need of the hour

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I'm deeply moved by the message conveyed in this article. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of approaching education in a holistic way. It breaks my heart to witness medical aspirants, who invest so much effort and dedication, facing numerous challenges and ultimately giving up on their dreams. We must recognize the diversity among our students, especially in terms of their social backgrounds and linguistic diversity, as these factors significantly impact their learning experiences. We must strive to create a space where every student feels supported and valued, regardless of where they come from. It's not just about grades and test scores; it's about nurturing well-rounded individuals who can thrive in all aspects of life. By prioritizing holistic development and creating favourable learning environments, we can empower students to pursue their passions and lead fulfilling lives. This reinforces my belief that balance is the key to success in life.
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Faith energises .. faith heals

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  Faith energises.... faith heals.... My memory goes back 10 years ago when we had shifted to our newly built home in the outskirts of thindal, Erode. Surrounded by lush green paddy fields , the first few years was a " kerala" experience! Close to our home, the  " karuparayan and kannimaar" temple particularly intrigued me . The huge tamarind trees and neem tree would easily be over 100 years old and I have enjoyed the bird chatter standing outside the locked gate. I would ask the passersby " WHY" it is kept locked . And each had a story to share ! Finally after 33 years , the " kumbabisegam " was held today.  The insensitive blasting of loud music and the bursting of crackers ( my heart was bleeding for all those birds whose home this tree has been, for many years ) infuriated me and my rational mind fired up to" question" this faith . But then, I pacified myself telling " thank God, the traditional faith " is still there
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