Pritam Nehare
Today, the TFI team visited the Sonkhanb Center. We had all been eagerly waiting for this moment. From the morning itself, there was a special buzz in the center.
The children’s faces shone with joy, and we were all excited to meet them. Among the elders and women of the community, there was a distinct sense of warmth and affection. Everyone sincerely wished that they could see the approach to education at the center and the children’s confidence in learning.
In all the preparations, Ratan Didi played a special role. Even though she had important personal work today, she stayed at the center because visitors were coming. On that day, her responsibilities seemed doubled. She wholeheartedly managed cooking, arrangements, and hospitality. This was a significant responsibility for her, not just for the children but also for the community. The support of the community made it even more meaningful. Similarly, Lala, who usually does not stay around, made basundi on his own. Ajay read an English story to the TFI team. Although he is only in fourth grade, he can read in English. This experience had such a positive impact on him that he has now taken four more books from the library to read.
Having the entire Tech for India team visit was a huge moment for us. Shahin Mistry herself, the founder of TFI, experienced the respect, love, and warmth of the community. From the TFI team, we learned many new things – from the children, from the community, and also from ourselves. The visitors to the Sonkhanb Center today were not just guests; they were partners who inspired dreams, provided motivation, and showed a new direction for education.
The day ended, but its beauty still lingers in our hearts. And perhaps it will remain so for many years to come.