Saptaparni
On a chilly winter evening in Hyderabad, we gathered at Saptaparni, a cultural space that celebrates storytelling, art, and community. Seated on the floor, huddled close together, we wrapped ourselves in the warmth of shared stories.
As I began narrating The Myth of the Wild Gaur, describing a group of children sitting around their teacher, the little ones around me lit up. "That is just like us!" they whispered.
The rest of the story unfolded with curiosity, gasps, and surprises as we slowly uncovered the majesty, strength, and beauty of the wild gaur. As always, I received many questions about the creature, which felt like a small victory, as this was proof of their growing enthusiasm.
Later, as we crafted our clay gaurs, I thought this winter evening was the perfect time to step back and not guide them. Instead, I let their imaginations run free. Some shaped sturdy, strong gaurs, while others molded dreamy, abstract ones that could be anything. There was no right or wrong, just creativity without limits.
By the end of the evening, the room was filled with laughter, tiny clay creatures, and minds filled with visions of misty Kodaikanal forests. Everyone left with a smile, carrying a piece of the mountains in their hearts.
