Ilaxi Patel's Blog: Moms Zone

Nostalgic Poems by Hridaan Patel

A Morning of Memories and Metaphors: Book Launch of Nostalgic Poems by Hridaan Patel

Organized by Ahmedabad Book Club – An Initiative of Karma Foundation

On the peaceful morning of June 22nd at AMA, the Ahmedabad Book Club, an initiative of Karma Foundation, hosted a soul-stirring Book Launch for Nostalgic Poems, a debut collection by young author Hridaan Patel

The event unfolded not just as a literary gathering, but as an intimate celebration of words, emotions, and quiet strength. Nostalgic Poems is a reflection of Hridaan’s inner world—where everyday moments, fleeting feelings, and tender memories find rhythm and rhyme. While the book carries a range of heartfelt verses, one particularly poignant poem stands out—dedicated to his late father. That single piece added a layer of depth and emotional gravity to the collection, making the launch all the more personal and moving.

The book was officially launched by Mr. Madhu Menon, President of Ahmedabad Book Club, in the gracious presence of Hridaan’s grandparents, his mother, and Shraddha Ahuja Ramani, Literary Advisor of Karma Foundation. Their presence on stage was not just ceremonial—it represented the village behind the voice, the quiet encouragement behind a young poet’s courage.

The conversation between Hridaan and ABC committee member Khyati Chawla was both graceful and insightful. She brought out the essence of the poems and the poet—making space for reflection, honesty, and laughter. It wasn’t a formal interview; it was a gentle unfolding of a creative mind still learning to carry his emotions with ink.

The audience—composed of readers, writers, family friends, and literature lovers—sat with soft smiles and silent admiration. Because in a world often consumed by noise, Hridaan’s verses offered pause. They spoke of longing without despair, of beauty in the mundane, of nostalgia that warms rather than weighs.

The event reaffirmed the Ahmedabad Book Club’s role as more than just a literary platform—it is a nurturing ground where voices, no matter how young, are heard, celebrated, and remembered.

“Nostalgic Poems” is not just a debut—it’s a doorway. And on this quiet June morning, that doorway opened, letting in light, love, and the quiet grace of poetry.

Thank You for the Overwhelming response for Hridaan Patel Debut Poetry Book ‘Nostalgic Poems’ Book Launch organised by Ahmedabad Book Club (@Karma Foundation) at AMA. The Book Launch and Conversation with Hridaan has received an amazing response from the media, (almost 20 publications), a generous exposure and a total positive Appreciation by the Press, Readers, family, friends and SM.

The Book is. Available on Amazon :

https://amzn.in/d/5PUkje3

and Book Launch Talk can be viewed on You Tube –

Back Cover of Nostalgic Poems by Hridaan Patel.

Follow Hridaan on Kidsfreesouls – Hridaan

Social Media – Instagram at http://instagram.com/ilaxip

Facebook at http://facebook.com/hridaanbinalpatel

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Teach Toddlers to Read

Teach Toddlers to read

Books and they are always the windows through which the soul peeps out. Early Reading is a habit. Toddler definition starts when a child reaches 12 months and grow up to 36 months age. The development schedules begin almost at the age when they start when they go toddling, walking unsteadily and holding for a support to balancing the act. Slowly, there comes in the discipline which can be thought of as the daily training that parents provide by action, word and example to shape the kid’s behavior. Toddlers are observing. The Development schedules are generally seperated into categories as the kids grow up and with many different lables. To briefly sum up, they form :

1. Motor skills.
2. Conversation and communication styles.
3. Social skills
4. Self help skills
5. Cognitive skills

Childhood development schedule serve a parent to identify the need of kids and provide routine and robust monitoring to help them take the tiny steps to climb up, growing gracefully. As a Development Psychologist and working with children at Swagat Children Library over a period of 25 years, I have moms asking me these questions quite often:

When should I teach my Toddler to read?
At what age should I make my child read?
How can I build my child’s vocabulary?
How can I help my kid to read?
How can I improve my child’s reading level?

In fact, my answer is always ‘No’ – only exceptional children can read too quick. However, Children books are visuals and fun that a child can understand. So, the best way to Teach a Toddler to read is Get Books, Read Books. My Grandson Hridaan started love for books way back when he was 15 months and at 4 years, ended up listening lot of stories and narrating too.

Here’s some quick guide to help Toddlers to Read :

1. Show Books when he develops the Motor skills. While at a nap or just before bed-time, show colorful Picture Books – can be the basic Alphabet books, Vocabulary set, animals, shapes, colors and so on. Make this a routine.
2. Let the Books be around in the room, handy to pick up.
3. Add a new Book to the Toy Box and this, sure is noticed.
4. Focus on words and pictures pointing a finger while you show.
5. Expression – exclamations are noticed by the child as you read a story
6. Check the phonic sounds as they are heard and stored in mind.
7. Go for repeat books – be it vocabulary or stories
8. Make it Feel, touch, see – animal stories are best while you show domestic animals as dogs, cats, goat, cows, horses and help the child to know and learn.
9. Use the Arts and Crafts way to teach words – draw, color and stick-paste.
10.Encourage your child to narrate – be it a story you’ve read or anything else they want to speak. Just Listen with interest and motivate.
11. Fill up their small minds with imagination. The sky, earth, moon, stars, butterflies, rainbow, music, farm, animals, toy stories are all they like. Talk, engage and explore.

The most important factor is setting priorities and setting example. If a parent or a teacher is not into the habit of reading, they fail to make it ‘fun reading’ and even make boring sessions for the kids. Children who see the adults
reading follow the footsteps as they are prone to imitate elders. Setting reading priority is even more essential part because reading habits are formed through setting of routine reading sessions. It can be once a week, two hours of
every day, half an hour to two.

Moreover, We need to encourage children to write ‘Weekly review Journal’ of stories they’ve read with a simple jot down in the scrap like: (It can be a daily review too)

Name of the Book
Name of the Characters in the Book
Best Part I like
Hard Words in the Book
My Opinion or Moral of the story
Lastly, Sign of the Student and Teacher’s sign.

Once a week, one review writing and you have 52 reviews ready in a year.

Reading workshop every Saturday is a routine at Swagat Children Library . During this time, 1st Grade onward students are reading self-selected books independently. However, guided, they choose the books from library and it is important
to make sure that the same is “just right” level based selection. While students are reading their books, I am conferring with individual students, conducting guided reading groups or strategy lessons, facilitating project ideas, etc. For this reason, it is important that I have clear routines and procedures in place to keep my independent readers on task and truly engaged in their reading.

Keeping Book logs is encouraged for Grade one onwards where students must record ALL Books they read throughout the year in their Reader’s Log. This reflect on their own reading habits, set monthly reading goals, and also helps to
assess their reading progress.

Creating a Genius and teaching literary skills begin from Home and Home is always where the heart is.

MORE RELATED:

Reading and Book Reviews

https://www.kidsfreesouls.com/reading...

Read Aloud – Children Love it

https://www.kidsfreesouls.com/read-al...

 

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Acts of Kindness in Children

World Kindness Day falls on November 13 and Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Week is February 9-15 2005. I think, any date is great to have Kindness Day.

I was wondering, why ‘Random’ but I guess children can well define ‘act’ and ‘kindness’ but ‘random’ is just casual – Children need to know this word ‘random’ and understand the phrase fully.

Kindness in the Classroom (Home) and Good Manners session are very important to build strong pillars of Character. These simple ‘Random’ Acts of Kindness are sometimes overlooked. They can build Confidence and boost the self esteem of kids. Kids’ acts are worthy a praise so much as we take pride when they excel in academics or sports. Developing a culture of Kindness by way of Projects do promote social-moral values that comes with an attitude to be kind. The emotional quotient misses a pitch for being social as early schooling is more focused on just the cognitive skills of reading and writing. Hence, it is important to nurture non-cognitive skills – social, emotional and behavioral competencies that lead to success in later life.

It is pertinent to build a culture for kindness – from the very start when children are climbing their first steps to school. Here are ethical Kidsfreesouls steps in Behavior Development and always wear the Kindness Badge and sing along “When you Give Love, you Receive Love”.

1. Be Kind – As parents-teachers or kids. Just Act, do it. Adults need to inspire and play role their act showing Kindness with their words and act. Identiy ways to be kind and share with children. Children need a healthy dose of the warm-and-fuzzies to thrive as healthy, happy, well-rounded individuals. Interact and engage them while you follow a kind act.

2. Be a good listener – Listen to children and kindly answer their small questions. They turn to listen too. Treat them nice with no spanking or punishment.

3. Catch Kindness – Give stars for being good and no stars for not being kind. Place a chart and have fun together. You can give stars for the kind act to the child and tell him to do the same for you. Reward for kindness when the Kindness Chart reaches set stars. i.e. for 25 kindness acts, give them a reward.

4. Gift Books – Gift books on Kindness and even get books on kindness for yourself. Books like Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is a classic that sets good example.

5. Participate in Group Activity – Involve in activities, social causes, group walks or charity – any activity that calls for social cause and being kind and helpful to others. Organize drawing and coloring sessions, music or crafts sessions for the deaf and dumb, blind children or the orphans – this will fill their world with joy. Teach your children – How to Tithe (give) and these tips may help too. Giving is a responsibility and a source of satisfaction. There is always time in life to help others. You can give without loving and you can’t love without giving.

6.Engage them in daily chores – Indulge kids in helping around – at home and school. This will make them more responsible, organized and also feel self worth of job well done. Get them do things they like – planting or watering plants, cutting vegetables, set up menu for lunch or dinner, spread bed sheets, whatever they like to do. Self indulged activities often have a calm effect and peace of mind.

7. Make Friends – Friendship itself has the kindness factor. Showing love, caring for the other and sharing. Get kids to do crafts – make beautiful friendship bands, car hangings, pencil tops or pen stands. Let them gift to their friends. Maybe, paint t-shirts and gift on birthday. Kindness comes in prompt with love and feelings for a friend.

8. Mind Language – A very important factor to remember is ‘words’. What you demonstrate, kids follow. Children pick faster what you say and do.

9. Reduced Depression – yours and for children too
Dr. Wayne Dyer, an internationally-renowned author and speaker, says that an act of kindness triggers an increase in serotonin, a natural chemical responsible for improving mood. This boost in happiness occurs not only in both the giver and receiver of kindness, but also in anyone who witnesses it. This makes kindness a powerful, natural http://www.drmcquaid.com/pdf/Happiness_2.pdf (antidepressant. (PDF, 14KB)

9. I believe : Believe in God and make kids say ‘I believe’ – When you pray to god for help and guidance, children follow your spirituality and can see your day to day relationship with god through prayers. God hears prayers and it’s faith that makes better souls.

Patty O’Grady, PhD, an expert in neuroscience, emotional learning, and positive psychology, specializes in education. She reports:

“Kindness changes the brain by the experience of kindness. Children and adolescents do not learn kindness by only thinking about it and talking about it. Kindness is best learned by feeling it so that they can reproduce it.”

Maurice Elias, Professor at Rutgers University Psychology Department, is also an advocate for kindness. He says:

“As a citizen, grandparent, father, and professional, it is clear to me that the mission of schools must include teaching kindness. Without it, communities, families, schools, and classrooms become places of incivility where lasting learning is unlikely to take place . . . [W]e need to be prepared to teach kindness, because it can be delayed due to maltreatment early in life. It can be smothered under the weight of poverty, and it can be derailed by victimization later in life . . . Kindness can be taught, and it is a defining aspect of civilized human life. It belongs in every home, school, neighborhood, and society.”

As such Emotions are the wild cards in human intelligence They fit into are thinking as emotions create thoughts and thoughts create actions. So, jumpstart to create a Culture of Kindness and let peace be at your doorstep.

Find Random Acts for Kindness http://www.randomactsofkindness.org/ for people committed to spreading kindness. It provides a wide variety of materials, including activity ideas, lesson plans, project plans and much more. You can find the Kindness dates, calendar, create a website, share kindness experiences, find e-cards and get free stuff. Be Inspired or just Be kind.

Spread Kindness – Spread sunshine. Follow the Random Acts of Kindness Ideas (http://www.randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-ideas)

God Bless.

Note: All Contents on www.kidsfreesouls.com are written by Ilaxi Patel, Editor and Author of Guardian of Angels and copyrighted. Hence, please give a link and share of take a print for personal use.

 

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Children are Observers. Be an Influencer

You are your child’s Hero – Mom or Dad – Kids are great followers and learn more with experience. God has fitted the world’s best and largest video tape recorder in your children’s mind. The way you treat – your parents, friends, wife or hubby, employees, customers..all is getting fully taped to be played back later. So, Empty your mind – throw your anxiety, worries, problems, guilt in your Mental Waste Basket – if you don’t eliminate, they go for maths – addition and subtraction of joys of life. It is important to empty mind than empty pockets later on !!!

There is no Influence as powerful as that of a mother. In my mind, there are no bad kids or what you label brats. They have their Emotions and impulses. They try to communicate their feelings and needs the only way they know how.

Children don’t need more things. The best toy a child needs is a parent to play with. Kids are more smarter and perspective than you realize. The Attitude you have as a parent, is what your kids will learn, more than what you tell them. They don’t remember what you teach them. They remember what you are.

“Kids are rude because they’re modeling rude behavior that they see around them. “Minding manners” is a foreign concept to many children. Etiquette and respect have gone out with bell-bottoms, but unlike those groovy jeans, it never made a comeback. Kids’ manners are arguably worse than ever.

According to Alex J. Packer, Ph.D., author of the book How Rude! The Teen Guide to Good Manners, Proper Behavior, and Not Grossing People Out , good manners must be taught, discussed, and practiced. Yet manners are no longer stressed in many homes and schools. “A lot of parents would rather be their child’s friend than their parent,” he says. “So kids get mixed messages and etiquette instruction falls by the wayside.”

In a survey Mr. Packer conducted with parents for his book, he asked: “Do you think children today are more polite, less polite, or the same as when you were growing up?” Of the 70 parents that responded, three-quarters answered that today’s children and adults are less polite than when they, themselves, were growing up.

Is Our Lack Of Manners Partly A Result Of New Technology? Poor digital manners are a cross-generational issue. There are countless adults displaying rude behavior while being engulfed in devices. There are classic examples of parents ignoring their children during meals while being on their devices, which sends a negative signal and sets a poor standard for expected tech etiquette.

Do as I say and not as I do says many moms. But “Do as I say, not as I do,” when it does take the form of inconsistency, can also undermine your intentions as a parent.

The research points to three consequences of inconsistency.

1. First, the effects of your teaching are diminished when deeds and words are not in line. The more inconsistent you are, the more you will hear yourself saying, “How many times have I told you not to do that?”

2. Second, children can readily recognize inconsistencies, and they become more upset with their inconsistent parents than children who have parents who are more consistent. And although even small children can readily report on parental inconsistencies, they usually wait until adolescence to throw them in their parents’ faces.

3. Third, a parent who does one thing but expects or demands the opposite from a child is more likely to have discipline problems and more likely to punish a lot in the effort to overcome the influence of his or her own modeling.

4. Lastly, Never ever give FALSE HOPES. And, just say lies or even fulfil demands to make them do what you want.

The main idea to bear in mind here is that modeling—teaching by example—affects behavior far more than telling your children what to do (and far more than punishing them, too).

Adopt your Parenting style with care and this is the need of the hour. Children learn a lot by observing and they have the sharp observation skills.

Positive Parenting for Imperfect Parents – Adopt Strategy. Be Calm, Listen, Get Connected.

Sometimes we need a reminder to just STOP. NOTHING is more important than letting our children be who they are. We need to ask them why before simply saying NO. Do This and Don’t Do This often ends up to power struggles, yells, stubborn, rage flicks and Undisciplined Attitude. Discipline the child without shouting and spanking. Talk and be friendly. Divert the mind yet be firm or just let go at times if not much pricky.
Free range Parenting often works especially for smart kid and allow the child curiosity by giving freedom without going nuts with worry.

Transforming self and empowering children is need of the hour with Patience and mindful Parenting.

Whether a ? Child, hubby or at ? Workplace – it doesn’t cost a penny to Speak ? lovefully, true, kind and sweet words….

Be an influencer – be the Mom or a Dad; even Grandparents or a Teacher that you want your child to remember…. YOU DECIDE ! 

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Hands on Parenting

Hands on Parenting – Power is with you

Life tread on a faster trail as moms today have tough parental responsibilities to up bring children. The 21st century tech savvy kids know all and get all to the extent that they have not learnt to listen to ‘NO.’

Parents are being too protective to the child and do things for them when they should be allowed to do on their own. She turns to be a ‘Helicopter Mom’ who over indulges in petty things and hovers over the children and their activities.

Being an Involved parent is to protect kids but ‘Over Indulging involvement’ being paranoid to allow children to let them attempt to be on their own, is dangerous. Fear grips fear and suspicion leads to guilt. All sorts of negativity surfaces in children when too much of indulgence adds up to their lives as they turn to Speaking lies, rebelling, gettingdestructive, out bursting and turn to a nasty brat sort of attitude. Involving, on the other hand is hands-on-parenting being fair, consistent and allowing freedom with guidance and nurturing the genius in a child.
It is important to instill a sense of Independence in children. Help them to be responsible. Resist to carry their school bags, do their homework for them, organize their room, carry their plates or feed them always what they want or get things when they ask without a ‘NO’ – pampering in limitless way. Over Indulgence and Over Attention are two things to keep a vigil check on, as a parent. Too much of over indulgence ends up to a disobedient, rigid or a self centered child whereas too much of over attentiveness causes a child to be unsure, insecure, indecisive, totally lacking in confidence.

This makes me mention on a study conducted by the Columbia University-based National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse looked specifically at the effect of “hands-on” versus “hands-off” parenting on tween and teen behavior. Not surprisingly, the study found that kids who live in highly structured households (hands-on parenting) were at significantly lower risk for substance abuse and other risk-taking behaviors than were children who lived in less structured homes (hands-off parenting). The behaviors examined included smoking cigarettes, substance use and abuse, and other risk-taking behaviors by the children as well as by their friends.

The research was held on youngsters ranging from 12 to 17 years. Three levels of parenting were discerned – Hands on Parenting, Hands off Parenting and Half Hearted. 27% kids reportedly lived on ‘Hands on household’, 55% on ‘half hearted’ parenting style homes and 18% described as ‘hands off’ parenting style. This particularly does not mean Indian homes are way back in Parenting style due to culture conflicts. The cultural shift is fast pacing up with indicators queries to identify parenting styles with homegrown kids more facing the brunt of ‘half hearted’ parenting and ‘hands off’ parenting styles.

Here are some Indicators used to know the Parenting Style: Identify whether it is ‘hands on’, ‘half hearted’ or ‘hands off’ – who could be the better judge than a parent!

Parents monitor what the child is watching on TelevisionParents impose choice of music while listening or buyingParents are aware of the child’s school activitiesParents monitor internet activities of the childParents expect to be told truthfully where the child is going with friendsParents make a practice to have at least dinner together six days a weekParents make sure the television is switched off while dinner timeWhen the child returns home, an adult is at homeThe child is taught to be organized and responsible for certain choresParents make clear with choice of friends, habits and use four magic words ‘I can’t afford it’

How did you fare? Rate yourself. I have always been more caring, involved and observant parent. I passed in many categories but nevertheless, my ‘hands on’ parenting style did the magic for a responsible matured boy when he grew up. Hands on parenting averts the kid risk taking behavior. With new generation frustration, hands off parenting pace in way with half hearted parenting styles. With independent lifestyles after joint family break ups, working moms and other responsibilities, it is important to focus on parenting styles – preferably it has to be ‘hands on’ parenting.

It is here where parents need to build own confidence, know their own fears and anxiety and as teachers, need to know the strength and capacity of the child before expecting a lot from him. Hovering over a child is indeed making him less confident and even getting introvert. Nobody likes to be watched to told to do ‘this and that’ – Disciplining has its own way.

So, what to do? How do you help your child to be Independent and responsible? I tried my way and laid down the rules with hands on parenting and even while teaching children. Hands on parenting, a follow through consistently and participating in a child’s day to day routine. More, offer supportive approach, using involving tactics with indulgence when required need arose.

Here are some Kidsfreesouls tips to help be Hands-on-Parenting

1. Be a friend and keep the faith

2. Monitor their activities. Guide when necessary

3. Monitor their Television / Internet viewing and offer your choice

4. Provide assistance for learning but refrain from doing their homework

5. Never say, ‘My child is over-burdened’ – Instead, set time schedules. Most of the time, it happens, your unorganized time schedule clashes with the child’s routine.

6. Know their friends and show interest.

7. Learn to Say ‘No’ – the biggest mistake parent every makes is not saying ‘No’ – Explain why you say ‘No’ and be firm.

8. Encourage and inspire

9. Discipline with tact Parents and Teachers influence children. They are the ones who create Genius in a child. So, go ahead – enjoy influencing and try Hands-on-parenting – The power is within ‘YOU”

Dig your heels and do what is right. Your Child’s behavior, safety, success and accomplishment depends on care and nurture which reflects your concerns too.

(This article appears in my Book ‘Guardian of Angels’ (New local edition)

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Read Aloud – Children Love it

Reading aloud to children helps them develop oral language. It teaches them how to listen and how narrative is structured.

They also learn vocabulary and how print works and that it is read from left to right,” says UAB Associate Professor of education Kathleen Martin. She further says, “Reading aloud helps to develop oral language. It teaches children how to listen and how narrative is structured. They also learn vocabulary and how print works and is read from left to right.”

Scholastic Kids & Family Reading ReportTM: (http://www.scholastic.com/readingreport/reading-aloud.htm)

Fifth Edition is information on what kids want in books, findings taken from a nationally representative survey of parents and
students. You can read more about that in the post below about Reading aloud books to children at home.

Nine in 10 parents (91%) say their children are read books aloud at home before age 6, primarily to develop their child’s vocabulary and language skills and to foster reading
enjoyment.
Percentage of Parents Who Say Their Child Was Read Books Aloud at Home Before Age 6 and Reasons Reading Aloud Started
Base: Parents of Children Ages 0–17

More than half of children ages 0–5 (54%) are read aloud at home 5–7 days a week. This declines to only one in three kids ages 6–8 (34%) and to one in six kids ages 9–11
(17%).
Frequency with Which Parents Say Their Child is Read Books
Aloud at Home
Base: Parents of Children Ages 0–17

Nearly one in four parents of children ages 6–17 (23%) stopped reading aloud to their children before age 9, most often citing reasons related to their child reading
independently.
Percentage of Parents Who Say Their Child Stopped Being Read Books Aloud at Home Before Age 9 and Reasons Reading Aloud Stopped
Base: Parents of Children Ages 6–17

75%said my child is old enough to read ; 58% revealed my child wanted to read independently; 49% wanted to promote reading independently

As a child grows up gracefully, it is normally felt that they can now read independently and do not require to be read aloud. However, many children ages 6–11 (40%) did not
want their parents to stop reading aloud to them.

In the age group of 6-8 – 48% loved – 38 % liked to read aloud at home.
In the age group of 9-11 – 43% loved – 42% liked to read aloud at home.
In the age group of 12-14 – 40% loved – 40% liked to read aloud at home.

The top reason children say they enjoy being read aloud to is that it’s a special time with their parents.

96% parents below 5 said it is important for their kids to read books for fun. 61% believed it was extremely important whereas 35% revealed as very important. From age group
6 – 17, the percentage went lower to 45% as extremely important.

89% said, Developing Vocabulary and language skills and using their imagination are the top benefits they want their kids to gain from reading books for fun. 86% for using
imagination. 76% excited about reading. 74% being successful in school and 61% for spending time away from Technology.

It is important to note that Six in 10 parents of children ages 0–5 (60%) received advice that children should be read aloud to from birth, yet just under half of parents in
lower-income households (47%) received this advice. The common advice to read aloud came from books, magazines, friends, family and pediatricians.

Reasons for Reading Aloud 

At a time when reading is on back seat and Technology steps in the front with kids turning more savvy with gadget use and computers, here is some interesting information you
can find at Scholastic. State of Kids and reading, What Kids want in Books, Reading in School, etc are the other topics that you might be interested to take a peek-a-boo.

Some insights – Why Read Aloud

Swagat Children Library (https://www.kidsfreesouls.com/index.php/Swagat-Children-Library/) conducted ‘Read Aloud’ Sessions. The results are not only amazing, children wanted to read more and even narrated the stories with expressions. Enhanced vocabulary and fluency in reading was found. Also provided stage platform to break stage fear and face the audience. Voice modulation is evaluated. Short stories/lessons to be taken for loud reading. Kids friendly books, magazine articles will spark interest and discussion to add dimension to reading. Reading dramatically will draw interest to kids keeping in mind the phonics and style of reading. To add creativity, add the word cloud theme online. Just go for Creativity online for Projects – A word Art ‘Words as image’ and choose words from read aloud. Word clouds, shapes and different text, colors etc is just fun esp. when images are needed for Projects. I have used this in my Swagat Children Library classroom assignments and kids love to explore online smile emoticon Tagxedo, wordle.net, typoeffects.com and many more….?#?Parents? and ?#?Teachers? only need to explore with the children and have fun.

Why Read Aloud?

Reading aloud is more than fun – it’s an effective teaching strategy.

Provides an opportunity to share your favorite stories, novels, and poems with the whole class

Provides a chance to address important themes like friendship, courage, prejudice, bullying, etc.

During Reading Workshop, allows to teach strategy mini lessons to the whole class (or stories) since everyone is listening to the same selection (having read the same book in library)

Models fluent reading for students

Introduces students to vivid and specific vocabulary

Offers a chance to use questioning strategies to explore concepts in the selection

– kidsfreesouls News Desk

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Diwali and new Beginnings

Happy New Year! May you all have a great year ahead with firm Resolutions made to achieve your goals and turn your dreams true.

Remember, Just this side of heaven is the Rainbow Bridge and it sparkles on our lives. All we need to Appreciate is the Present, perform our true roles, carry on our responsibilities, scatter sunshine and smiles around. Live life responsibly like there’s no tomorrow. A new life, a new change, a new experience, new perspective…!

No person is without a problem, without struggle, without facing a challenge and my message this new Year is crystal clear – Sometimes we are tested but we need to discover our strength, there are lessons to be learnt, adopt ‘This too shall pass’, Keep faith and move on. As such, Grief changes shape but it never ends. After all, Tough times never last, tough people do. An emotion, a feeling within, bonding, love, caring, tolerating, forgiving and sacrificing is all that counts as we turn new pages this year.

Missing my son Binal, Grandparents Gopaldada and Chandraba 🙁

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Diwali & Happy New Year

Diwali, the festival of lights is celebrated all over India with enthusiasm. This Diwali which leads us into Truth and Light is celebrated on Amavasya – the 15th day of the dark fortnight of the Hindu month of Kartik (October / November) every year. It symbolizes that age-old culture of our country which teaches us to vanquish ignorance that subdues humanity and to drive away darkness that engulfs the light of knowledge. Diwali, the festival of lights even to-day in this modern world projects the rich and glorious past of our country and teaches us to uphold the true values of life.

“Deepavali” is a sanskrit word — Deepa meaning light and Avali, meaning a row. It means a row of lights and indeed illumination forms its main attraction. Every home – lowly or mightly – the hut of the poor or the mansion of the rich – is a lit with the orange glow of twinkling diyas-small earthen lamps – to welcome Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Floral decorations, fireworks and rangoli add grandeur to this festival which heralds joy, mirth and happiness in the ensuring year.

There are many versions about the origin of Diwali. According to some, it was on this day that goddess Laxmi was married to god Vishnu. According to popular legend, Lord Rama had returned to Ayodhya on this day after completing fourteen years of exile and after killing Ravana, releasing Sita from his grip. People of Ayodhya welcomed them with rows of lights outside their homes. Another legend says on this day, Lord Krishna is said to have killed the great demon Narakasur and liberated humanity from the cruel clutches.

The first day is Dhanterash falls on the thirteenth day of the month of Kartik. The word “Dhan” means wealth. As such this day of the five-day Diwali festival has a great importance for the rich mercantile community of Western India. Houses and Business premises are renovated and decorated. Entrances are made colourful with lovely traditional motifs of Rangoli designs to welcome the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. To indicate her long-awaited arrival, small footprints are drawn with rice flour and vermilion powder all over the houses. Lamps are kept burning all through the nights. Believing this day to be auspicious women purchase some gold or silver or at least one or two new utensils. “Lakshmi-Puja” is performed in the evenings when tiny diyas of clay are lighted to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. “Bhajans”-devotional songs- in praise of Goddess Laxmi are sung and “Naivedya” of traditional sweets is offered to the Goddess. There is a peculiar custom in Maharashtra to lightly pound dry coriander seeds with jaggery and offer as Naivedya.

In villages cattles are adorned and worshipped by farmers as they form the main source of their income. In south cows are offered special veneration as they are supposed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi and therefore they are adorned and worshipped on this day.

A very interesting story about this day is of the sixteen year old son of King Hima. As per his horoscope he was doomed to die by a snake-bite on the fourth day of his marriage. On that particular fourth day of his marriage his young wife did not allow him to sleep. She laid all the ornaments and lots of gold and silver coins in a big heap at the entrance of her husband’s boudoir and lighted innumerable lamps all over the place. And she went on telling stories and singing songs. When Yam, the god of Death arrived there in the guise of a Serpent his eyes got blinded by that dazzle of those brilliant lights and he could not enter the Prince’s chamber. So he climbed on top of the heap of the ornaments and coins and sat there whole night listening to the melodious songs. In the morning he quietly went away.

Thus the young wife saved her husband from the clutches of death. Since then this day of Dhanteras came to be known as the day of “Yamadeepdan” and lamps are kept burning throughout the night in reverential adoration to Yam, the god of Death.

The SECOND DAY is Narka – Chaturdashi or Kali Chaudasa. The story goes that the demon king Narakasur ruler of Pragjyotishpur ( a province to the South of Nepal) after defeating Lord Indra had snatched away the magnificent earrings of Aditi, the Mother Goddess and imprisoned sixteen thousand daughters of the gods and saints in his harem. On the day previous to Narakachaturdashi, Lord Krishna killed the demon and liberated the imprisoned damsels and also recovered those precious earrings of Aditi. As a symbol of that victory Lord Krishna smeared his forehead with the demon king’s blood. Krishna returned home in the very early morning of the Narakachaturdashi day. The womenfolk massaged scented oil to his body and gave him a good bath to wash away the filth from his body. Since then the custom of taking bath before sunrise on this day has become a traditional practice specially in Maharashtra.

In South India that victory of the divine over the mundane is celebrated in a very peculiar way. People wake up before sunrise prepare blood by mixing Kumkum in oil and after breaking a bitter fruit that represents the head of the demon King that was smashed by Krishna, apply that mixture on their foreheads. Then they have an oil bath using sandalwood paste.

In Maharashtra also, traditional early baths with oil and “Uptan” (paste) of gram flour and fragrant powders are a `must’. All through the ritual of baths, deafening sounds of crackers and fireworks are there in order that the children enjoy bathing. Afterwards steamed vermiceli with milk and sugar or puffed rice with curd is served.

Another legend is about King Bali of the nether world mighty power had become a threat to the gods. In order to curb his powers Lord Vishnu in the guise of a Batuk Vaman- a small boy- visited him and begged him to give him only that much land which he could cover with his three steps. Known for his philanthropy King Bali proudly granted him his wish. That very moment that small boy transformed himself into the all-powerful Lord Vishnu. With his first step Lord Vishnu covered the entire heaven and with the second step the earth and asked Bali where to keep his third step. Bali offered his head. Putting his foot on his head Vishnu pushed him down to the underworld. At the same time for his generosity Lord Vishnu gave him the lamp of knowledge and allowed him to return to earth once a year to light millions of lamps to dispel the darkness and ignorance and spread the radiance of love and wisdom.

This Narakachaturdashi day therefore is dedicated to lights and prayers heralding a future full of joy and laughter.

The THIRD DAY of the festival of Diwali is the most important day of LAKSHMI-PUJA which is entirely devoted to puja of Goddess Lakshmi. This day is also known by the name of “CHOPADA-PUJA”. On this very day sun enters his second course and passes Libra which is represented by the balance or scale. Hence, this design of Libra is believed to have suggested the balancing of account books and their closing. Despite the fact that this day falls on an amavasya day it is regarded as the most auspicious.

The day of Lakshmi-Puja falls on the dark night of Amavasya. The strains of joyous sounds of bells and drums float from the temples as man is invoking Goddess Lakshmi in a wondrous holy “pouring-in” of his heart. All of a sudden that impenetrable darkness is pierced by innumerable rays of light for just a moment and the next moment a blaze of light descends down to earth from heaven as golden-footed Deep-Lakshmi alights on earth in all her celestial glory amidst chantings of Vedic hymns. A living luminance of Universal Motherhood envelopes the entire world in that blessed moment of fulfillment of a long-awaited dream of the mortal. A sublime light of knowledge dawns upon humanity and devotion of man finally conquers ignorance. This self enlightenment is expressed through the twinkling lamps that illuminate the palaces of the wealthy as well as the lowly abodes of the poor. It is believed that on this day Lakshmi walks through the green fields and loiters through the bye-lanes and showers her blessings on man for plenty and prosperity. When the sun sets in the evening and ceremonial worship is finished all the home-made sweets are offered to the goddess as “NAIVEDYA” and distributed as “PRASAD”. Feasts are arranged and gifts are exchanged on this day gaily dressed men, women and children go to temples and fairs, visit friends and relatives. Everything is gay, gold and glitter!

One of the most curious customs which characterizes this festival of Diwali is the indulgence of gambling, specially on a large scale in North India. It is believed that goddess Parvati played dice with her husband, Lord Shiv on this day and she decreed that whosoever gambled on Diwali night would prosper throughout the ensuring year. This tradition of playing cards- flush and rummy with stakes on this particular day continues even to-day.

On this auspicious day Lord Shri Krishna around whom revolved the entire story of our great epic Mahabharat and the philosopher, who preached Karmayog through his Geeta to Arjun on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, discarded his body.

In the Ramayana, Rama who was in exile for 14 years had a great battle with the demon Ravana who had kidnapped Rama’s wife Sita. Rama killed the Ravana in the battle and brought back Sita to Ayodhya where he was coronated as King. When they returned to Ayodhya, it was a dark moonless night and all people lit lamps outside their houses to welcome the King and the Queen – Welcome the Victory over evil and thus, began the tradition of festival of lights.

Swami Dayanand Saraswati, founder of Brahma-Samaj with his superb yogic powers greed his soul from his body and mingled with divinity on this auspicious day of Diwali. Bhagwan, Mahavir, the Jain prophet also attained “Nirvan” on this day. Swami Ramtirth, the beloved “Ram Badshah” of millions of Indians was not only born on this day and took “Sanyas” but also took “Samadhi” on this day.

We kindle innumerable lights on this day to immortalise the sacred memories of those great men who lived to brighten the lives of millions of their fellow beings.

One very interesting story about this Diwali day is from Kathopanishad of a small boy called Nichiketa who believed that Yam, the god of Death was as black as the dark night of amavasya. But when he met Yam in person he was puzzled seeing Yam’s calm countenance and dignified stature. Yam explained to Nichiketa on this Diwali day of amavasya that by only passing through the darkness of death, man sees the light of highest wisdom and then only his soul can escape from the bondage of his mortal frame to mingle with the Supreme Power. And then Nichiketa realized the importance of worldly life and significance of death. Nichiketa’s all doubts were set at rest and he whole-heartedly participated in Diwali celebrations.

The FOURTH DAY is PADWA or VARSHAPRATIPADA which marks the coronation of King Vikramaditya and Vikaram-Samvat was started from this Padwa day.

Govardhan-Puja is also performed in the North on this day. As per Vishnu-Puran the people of Gokul used to celebrate a festival in honour of Lord Indira and worshipped him after the end of every monsoon season but one particular year the young Krishna stopped them from offering prayers to Lord Indra who in terrific anger sent a deluge to submerge Gokul. But Krishna saved his Gokul by lifting up the Govardhan mountain, a small hill in Braj, Mathura and holding it over the people as an umbrella.

The FIFTH DAY is Bhai Bij. As the legend goes Yamraj, the God of Death visited his sister Yami on this particular day. She put the auspicious tilak on his forehead, garlanded him and led him with special dishes and both of them together ate the sweets, talked and enjoyed themselves to their heart’s content, while parting Yamraj gave her a special gift as a token of his love and in return Yami also gave him a lovely gift which she had made with her own hands. That day Yamraj announced that anyone who receives tilak from his sister will never be thrown. That is why this day of Bhayyaduj is also known by the name of “YAMA-DWITIYA” Since then this day is being observed as a symbol of love between sisters and brothers. It became also imperative for the brother to go to his sister’s house to celebrate Bhayyaduj (Bhai bij)

( As per the Hindu Calendar – First day is called Dhan terash and second is Kali Chaudasa, third day is amavasya i.e. Diwali Day, fourth day is ekam and known as New Year and fifth day is bij and known as Bhai Bij. After this, two days are blank but the hindu calendar after ekam comes fifth day, which is Labh Pancham. Means, end of the festival and this day, all closed offices and any new good beginning starts with good luck for the whole year.

However, Diwali festival begins with Hindu calendar ‘Agiyarash’ i.e. two days before dhan terash. Agiyarash and Barash.

Later on, after 15 days, again comes the Dev Diwali. This time, it is only Dev Diwali Day when it is believed Gods celebrate Diwali!

Festivals are primarily social events that are designed to bring people together. However, I think festivals have a specific message to say. Especially, with the Narakasura story, he wreaked havoc on earth. Narkasura was the Son of Bhoodevi (Mother Earth) and Lord Vishnu, the Protector, in his incarnation on earth as the wild boar-Varaha Avatar. Bhoodevi asked her divine husband to make her son invincible. Fate led Narkasura to be a demon with his friend, Bana, the Asura. Bhoodevi in the form of Satyabhama, Krishna’s consort, put an end to Narakasura’s life because of his misdeeds.

He symbolises power and on the other hand, he represents every one of us. A combination of the divine and the mortal. If we misuse the powers given to us, we are killing ourselves. Being Powerful is not enough, one need to have the values that sustain it. Armed with this realisation a new day, a new year is ushered in.

A simple message I read somewhere, “Live in harmony with the environment. For when we don’t, then even the earth that harbours life might one day be forced to destroy it.”

Diwali is Deepavali, literally
‘A row of oil lamps’
It is a festival of illumination.
The divine power Vishnu overcomes the darkness of the underworld.
– from Hindus: Their religious Beliefs and Practices

“Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore has truly said: The night is black Kindle the lamp of LOVE With thy life and devotion. Thus Diwali is a festival of lights with various cultures and customs that mingle together to make it a happy occasion and spread joys”

Fire Works-Fun or Folly?

Safety Tips 

The lighting of lamps is symbolic of dispelling darkness and showing a ray of hope and happiness. This year, with the crisis crept in and the war on the world fronts has shattered many a hopes to rays of sunshine turning out to be one of the darkness and anguish. Since last many months, humans have witnessed the doom lurking in the dark and it is during these times that celebration is just another passing year through the turmoil of fate.

The number of death tolls is bygone and the world disaster with recent happennings and war is still a trauma. Comes again a Diwali and accidents and injuries due to Fireworks rises sharply all over the nation. There is hardly any standardization and quality control regarding the manufacture of fireworks at times. Some standards are laid down for sparklers, rockets and airplanes but lack of precise and correct information and wrong ideas about particular firework result in the majority of accidents. Flower pots are also a cause of major accident. There has been Explosives Act and Rules, which monitor manufacture, storage, construction, etc. but unfortunately, there is no restriction on use, age or venue. Children too can buy fireworks. Criminal negligence and unsafe handling fireworks are a cause for major accidents. The danger potential is not realized. Ignorance, carelessness, negligence and recklessness invite trouble. Young children drawn by colorful sparkles get caught frenzied with burns and as such adult accidents are on a rise too. Fireworks can create havoc if lighted in busy areas. Rockets are dangerous as they shoot off dangerously in different directions injuring people, entering homes and setting things on fire. Fireworks worth crores are manufactured. It is not surprising that substantial amount of money is burnt away every year. There is poverty line brimming to the fore and a small fortune is burnt under the disguise of celebrations. There are families who do not get a square meal yet they would go to any length to buy fireworks to celebrate the festival. The pollution toll in terms of noise and smoke is something totally overlooked. Educating the masses of the safe use of fireworks is important. The best first aid measures are also necessary which are useful in times of emergency. Let Diwali be the festival of Hope and Happiness, Let not Darkness lurk around!

ATTITUDE – You can make the Difference

SAFETY TIPs

Buy legally manufactured fireworks
Supervize children while they light fireworks
Light fireworks outside the house
Hold away sparkles from the body. Never make circles in the air.
Do not bend over fireworks while lighting it.
Don’t go near in hesitation whether it is burnt or not
Keep flower pots on a flat ground while lighting
Don’t light fireworks holding in hand
Rockets like fireworks should be lighted during heavy winds and busy areas but in open grounds
Never keep extra fireworks in pockets
Keep fireworks stock away while lighting a particular firework
Don’t wear Nylon clothes – prefer cotton while bursting crackers
Wear footwear while lighting fireworks
Never try to light used fireworks.
Keep a water bucket handy
Be Prepared for Emergency
Have Fun but Play Safe, Play Cool!
It’s Your Life, Anyway!

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Responsible Parenting : Be the Parent your children need

The greatest gift a Parent can give to children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.  Parents are the ultimate Role Models for children. Every word, movement and action has an impact on the child. Their influence is greater than any other person known to the child. Stephen Covey said, “Parents are handling life’s scripts to their children, scripts that in all likelihood will be acted out for the rest of children’s lives.

Parenting is important as Tag Parenting has been on rise as joint family concept is fading. Authoritarian Parenting with belief, “my way or go to highways” miss out on feelings of Children as they think this is spoiling the child. They do not involve kids in problem solving challenges instead they make rules and enforce punishments instead of discipline. Children of authoritarian parents are at a higher risk of development self-esteem problems because their opinions aren’t valued.

When we talk about Authoritarian Parenting, it can also be stated as Autocratic Parenting. Parents’ attitude towards the child is more demanding, more expectations and less being responsive to the needs and wants of the child.  This style of Parenting is focused on Obedience, Discipline, Control and being Authoritarian. They expect the child to do what they say and want. They follow Strict Rules, give punishments and even offer no choices. They often hurt the self esteem of the child with their rude, rough and unacceptable attitude. They are intolerant and ashamed of their behaviour with the ‘shouts and yells’ that irk anyone. They almost spank and show fear of monsters or slap the child for their unwanted behaviour. When a child wrongs, the whole world starts rotating at speed that such parents can’t handle the situation and try solve the issue. Instead of understanding why the child behaves the way he does, the parent will turn off the tables without finding the reason why he did that he shouldn’t.

The impact is bound to be Negative. Ultimately, the consequences are bound to be Negative than Positive as the child is the target of their own behaviour. Some common effects are:

Low self esteemBad social mannersLack of self disciplineIndecisivenessInsecurityMoody to creativityBehaviour problemsAcademic performance detersHyperAnxietyObesityIntolerant

Such children have found to be Rude and Angry though they are good at heart. They allow their frustrations at a pace gradually on others and are often ridiculed, bullied by other students due to their attitudinal straits. Children need the love and care. As such they are demanding and feel insecure at times. They are even overburden and stressed due to many a reasons; one is academic and peer pressures. Their Attitude solely depends on Parenting styles which differ from Authoritarian to Authoritative, Permissive or Uninvolved Parenting. The psychological changes in children are attributed to the way a Parent interacts and show the impulsive behaviour. So, its not surprising that a parent child relationship thats often filled with conflict and neglect would have negative effect on a child’s emotional or mental behaviour.

Authoritarian Parenting isn’t all bad as revealed by researchers. The impact is significantly ‘Positive’ when it comes to :

Being Responsible. Children of Authoritarian Parenting tend to bear responsibility and form a habit as they age.Disciplinary effects. Children of Authoritarian Parenting often are scared if they break the rules and bear consequences if they do so. Hence, they behave properly.Good Environmental surroundings. Children of Authoritarian Parenting often have good environmental surroundings as to the safety – keeping distance from bad friends and bad things as they are moulded right.Passionate and Enthusiasm. Children of Authoritarian Parenting are often found to be Passionate and enthusiastic in all they do. They deem not to be a failure and forms this a part of habit of outshining in all they do.Clearly Focused. Children of Authoritarian Parenting have clear focus and do what they want. They are stubborn and set to reach their goals by following their heart and doing what they want to do.

So, you see, The Positive and Negatives of this Authoritarian Parenting style is often confusing. However, choose the right style of being Authoritative rather than Authoritarian as the negative impacts stand more. If a parenting style is Authoritarian, quickly sort for this:

Keep Patience. First and foremost is be PATIENT. It is a virtue to have Patience especially with children.Listen and Talk. Open Communication without Anger works Positive. Keep Cool and Listen. Talk and Discuss. How often a child will reveal what he thinks and a Parent will also realize where they are wrong in managing and need a change.Mistakes and they Teach. Learn from your own mistakes and let children learn from their mistakes. Every tiny step taken climbs to top. Let not the kids stumble.Set Limits but be practical.Be decisive by being expressive and caring

Parenting is all about living life together and raising healthy children. It’s fun all the way – be flexible, be understanding, be considerate and over and above, be loving, humble, kind and positive. Give Respect to the child and he respects you. Speak loving words and he reverts the same way. Build confidence and the child hold your fingers to climb the steps with confidence.

The best kind of a Parent you can be is to lead by example. Your influence is absolute as they initially learn from Parents, than teachers and than their surrounding environment. There are no set rules or a guide for you to follow as a parent. Parenting depends on your family set-up and the societal environment that you live in but as experts have broadly divided parenting into various styles with the prominent ones – authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles, it is a check to your own Parenting Style and adopt by first demonstrating goodness within self and setting examples as it often bounce back. Just remember, Children are Observers and they are the best judge. To be a peaceful Parent, educate self to Respect self and others, promote simplicity, let go off the worries and fear, give yourself and your family a healthy diet and healthy environment. Absence of this may lead to conflicts in couples too. Not to go in detail, it sums up all that, “Better couples with healthy relationships spend quality time together and raise happy children.”

It is your Life, Sure it affects others too !  Happiness is what you choose or shrug off the blues!

— Ilaxi Patel
Editor, kidsfreesouls.com and Author of Guardian of Angels

( All Articles in Moms Zone and Kidsfreesouls are written by Ilaxi Patel. If you like, please do share on your Website or Social Media with due credits to the Author and Kidsfreesouls.com ) 

 

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Fit In, Stand Out, Walk by Shailini Sheth Amin

“FIT IN, STAND OUT, WALK! ” Why? And, aptly titled with Bold Illustrated Cover, the Book by Shailini Sheth Amin was Launched at Karma Cafe on 6th April, Saturday. The Event was organised by Ahmedabad Book Club (@The Karma Foundation ).

Beyond Architecture,Shailini ventured into ‘Moral Fibre Fabrics’ — a venture which promotes the Khadi tradition, handcrafted fabrics and has created work opportunities for over 3,000 workers — mainly women living in remote villages in Gujarat. At Ahmedabad Book Club Launch Event, She said, “It stemed from a profound influence I had of my aunt Indumatiben Chimallal, right from my childhood. Our family had a close association with Mahatma Gandhi, and India’s Freedom Struggle. Along with her pioneering work in education and women’s empowerment, she was a lifelong worker and promoter of Khadi fabrics and, the ethical, moral and social values the movement generated.” 

How come she became an Aithor? Her Journey from being Architect to Entrepreneur took her to a Literary world was a dream turn true of being a writer. The Author with the influence of her age long experiences and Travel to countries made her pen down the Book. An Architect by Profession, a Community Project initiator and a Financial Consultant – her Book is about Stories from a Pushed away hill ! The memoirs is Neelima ‘s story. An orphan from Mumbai with high and low tides in crossover situations attempts to find her existence in an ever changing world. The Book excels in the feminist autobiographical world. The voice is loud and clear – Her courage for the search for lasting love, happiness and self-respect eluded her and a lot of Ups and Downs came by. Finally, the Author, finds her freedom. The Author openly shares her emotions and tough choices with many obstacles, voiced the agonies of women at large and the struggle they faced – Its totally a very Inspirational narrative of the well experienced Author, indeed. A gripping tale of a personal journey. And, truly adventurous, reflective, profound and stunning.

At her recent Book Launch on 6th April 2024 at Ahmedabad Book Club, the event was well Moderated Session by Bijal Mehta, the dynamic Professor of Ahmedabad University. Her prompt questions so wisely and word-ly framed caught attention. The Chief Guest was the well known Best selling Author and Motivational Speaker Rashmi Bansal who gave insights to the role of women, their plights in general and the upcoming generation. Well Compered Session by Piyalee Chattopadhyay Patel , she made a a remarkable presence as she introduced the Guests. Well attended by dignitaries and good friends Beena Handa , Jayshree Mehta, Toyota Cars and other friends, family and ABC Members.

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