Do you remember the time when school lessons seemed like an endless adventure? For me, that adventure was sparked in the 6th standard when I learned about the Amate family and their inspiring journey. It was during this chapter that I stumbled upon the Anandwan project. The more I read about it in newspapers, articles, and books, and the more I heard from people, the stronger my desire grew. At just 12 years old, I was eagerly and thirstily yearning to visit Anandwan.
On a random day in August 2023 when Dr. Arun Shinde Sir, a professor at Night College Kolhapur, shared a notice from Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan about a 5-day camp on Mahatma Gandhi's life. That's when the brainstorming began. I wondered how I could manage my studies, find the time for this approximately 7-day opportunity, and make it truly worthwhile. & ultimately research became my best friend for this.
The word "Wardha" always made me think of "Warora," and suddenly, I saw a way to fulfill my childhood wish while making the most of this travel opportunity. I checked Anandwan's official website, but it showed that the next two months were fully booked. I felt worried and wondered how to solve this dilemma. It was then that I remembered Mr.Deepak Nagargoje Sir, the founder of the Shantivan project in Beed, Maharashtra. I messaged him about my situation, and he kindly shared the contact number of Mr.Rajesh Tajne Sir. I called Tajne sir, and he connected me with Komal mam, who helped me with the booking.
At this point, I couldn't help but marvel at 'how life connects us with people to achieve good things together' !!
As I continued to plan, I reminded myself that Anandwan was a place close to my heart since my childhood, and I wanted to give something back. So, I came up with an idea. I messaged my close relatives and friends, asking them to collect old but good condition clothes and send them to me. I collected a satisfactory amount of clothes and packed them carefully.
The excitement had me a feeling butterflies in my stomach for days. I invested some time in booking my tickets, securing a spot on the Kolhapur-Nagpur Express for 8th September. From there, I decided not to over-prepare for this journey. No Google photos, no mapping, no reviews, and no pre-planning. I simply wanted to immerse myself in the kindness of the atmosphere and understand it on the field.
(Stay tuned as I take you along on this heartfelt journey to Anandwan.)
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