On July 28, 2018, I had the opportunity to visit Sawan Dharmarth Ashram. Not only is this a shelter for young kids dreams to soar, but a safety net for widows who need food to feed their families for the last twelve years. Although the literal meaning of ashram is a place of religious retreat, Sawan Dharmarth Ashram believes there is no restrictions of who is allowed to come. They believe that these people should inquire strong values and be a good person by heart. Walking in, I was immediately greeted with food and their hospitality felt like home. Girls learned how to sew, bag making, and computer skills. I saw many girls giggling while learning how to dance and put on henna designs. I saw small children looking up at their teachers with their curious eyes. Free of cost, kids get the chance to get their education until tenth grade. They also received support to pursue their studies after that. Many of them were being taught and even teaching themselves. a traditional dance for the upcoming India’s independence day.

Everywhere I went, the smalls kids smiled and waved at me with their eyes full of life. I felt disheartened that I couldn't help them more. Especially when I served them food, many seemed so hungry and were polite even then. Despite the fact the situation those kids were in, all of them were laughing and there wasn't single frown on any face. Every teacher was in fact happy to be there. And in spite of these hardships, one girl stood out to me. She worked very hard to get the top scores in her class to reach a great goal of hers: to become a IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer. The principal was very proud of a very determined young girl like her. They will support her and her future in any way they can.

I think that if these kids can reach goals of their own, we can achieve anything we set our mind to. I feel very fortunate and that I have a blessed life so now it’s my turn to give back to the world to achieve our dreams.


- Rhea Chhabra