Copyright

Nanhi Dunya
10, Inder Road, Dalanwala Dehradun 248001,
Tel: 0135 2656072 | +91 98214 17495 | +91 95572 80116

Concept
Alok Ulfat & Kiran U Goyal

Author, Content Curator & Art Director

Alok Ulfat

Visualisation & Graphic Design

Gunjan Sethi

Photo Contributions
Pal Studio
Goyal Photo Co.
Ajanta Photo Labs
Vicky Manek
Bhumesh Bharti
Ashu Satvika Goyal
Gunjan Sethi
Volunteers & Friends

Advisors
Avinash C Sethi
Ashu Satvika Goyal
Ram Prasad Sundriyal Anuj - Hindi translations

Proof Reading
Shriya Jha, Yasodhara Rakshit, Neetu Takroo,
Ritu Gautam, Justin Ackerman iw.kZ
vFkZ
Production correspondence and functional support
Ashu Satvika Goyal

1st Edition - 2021

POORN EARTH
© All rights reserved
Nanhi Dunya Center for Research & Publications

5
 C O N T E N T

11 Nanhi Dunya in a Seashell

12 Map - Nanhi Dunya Dehradun Centres
13 Foreword - Alok Ulfat
17 Message - Chief Promoter Kiran Ulfat Goyal

19 -24 Essence of Messages - Friends of Nanhi Dunya

Nanhi Dunya - the Movement

25 The Story Of Nanhi Dunya
27 Memories in Pictures
29 Independent Individuals
30 Nanhi Dunya - Aims & Objectives - 1946
31 Community wide Cooperation
32 Movement for Earth-Fellowship
33 Small steps towards Diversity
34 Completing, not Competing
35 Memories in Pictures - Two
37 Nanhi Dunya - Approach to Education
39 Nanhi Dunya Rainbow Platinum Jubilee Celebration

Nanhi Dunya Centres

43 The Centres
44 Milestones of Nanhi Dunya - An overview
45 Nanhi Dunya Creative School Inder Road
46 Nanhi Dunya School Karanpur
47 Nanhi Dunya Primary School Prem Nagar
48 Nanhi Dunya School Chander Nagar
49 Nanhi Dunya Rural Development projects
Kanwali Village Centre, Sahaspur Village Centre,
Nanhi Dunya Hastinapur Junior High School
51 Nanhi Dunya Junior High School - Centre for Environmental Education, Vikas Nagar
53 Child Enabling Fund - Sponsoring children
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 C O N T E N T

Inspiration
55 Ancient Indian Culture - The Spirit of Universal Education
59 Saraswati Maa - Devi of Wisdom by Sadhana Ulfat
61 Mantr, Shlok & Stotr - ea=] 'yksd ,oa Lrks=
65 Inspirational Beings
66 Awakening - Shri Rabindranath Thakur
67 Life in Learning - a wholistic approach to education by Alok Ulfat

Nanhi Dunya Associations

71 Rainbow Bridge - Nanhi Dunya and Dr. Rudolf Steiner
73 Nanhi Dunya & Emerson College
75 Nanhi Dunya & Michael Hall School
78 Nanhi Dunya Rangshala
81 Rang Himalaya Festival
83 Blessings for Rang Himalaya 2019
from Hon. Chief Minister Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat
84 Rang Yatra
Rang Manthan
85 Avikal Initiative for Life and Active Learning
87 Photo Gallery - 'Acting for Life' Workshops
89 Brave Festival - Ashu Satvika Goyal

Founders' Biographies
91 Smt. Sadhana Ulfat - Tessa Abramowitz, Alok Ulfat
97 Shri Lekh Raj Ulfat - Atul Chatterjee, Ajay Singh, Alok Ulfat

103 iw.kZrk ns nks - Poem by Alok Ulfat

104 Nanhi Dunya - Board of Trustees
105 Photo Gallery - Dignitaries and associates - Past & Present
113 Sant Kabir Das - Introduction and Dohey

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 C O N T E N T

Complete Messages & Blessings for Nanhi Dunya

114 Ganesh Stuti
115 Hon. Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu - The Vice President of India
116 Hon. Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari - The Governor of Maharashtra
117 Hon. Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh - The Governor of Uttarakhand
118 Hon. Shri Kalraj Mishra - The Governor of Rajasthan
119 Hon. Smt. Anandiben Patel - The Governor of Uttar Pradesh
120 Hon. Shri Acharya Devvrat - The Governor of Gujarat
121 Hon. Shri Biswa Bushan Harichandan - The Governor of Andhra Pradesh
122 Hon. Shri La Ganesan - The Governor of Manipur
123 Hon. Shri Om Birla - The Speaker of Lok Sabha
124 Hon. Shri G Kishan Reddy - Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of
North Eastern Region of India
125 Hon. Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji - The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand
- Message and Meeing with the children
127 Hon. Shri Bhupendra Patel - The Chief Minister of Gujarat
128 Hon. Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma - The Chief Minister Of Assam
129 Hon. Admiral D K Joshi - The Lieutenant Governor Andaman & Nicobar Islands
130 Hon. Shri Manoj Sinha - The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir
131 Shri Prem Chand Agarwal - Finance Minister of Uttarakhand
132 Shri Madan Kaushik - MLA Uttarakhand
133 Shri Ashok Kumar - DGP Uttarakhand
134 Dr. Sadanand Date (IPS) - Head of Branch, DIG Head of Branch,
DIG Central Bureau Of Investigation
135 Shri Shiv Kumar Baranwal - ADM Dehradun, Uttarakhand
136 Hon. Shri Tarun Vijay - The Chairman, National Monuments Authority & Ex MP
137 Baba Hathyogi ji - Mahant and realised Yogi
138 Swami Prem Vivekanand - Seekers Trust
139 Smt. Rekha Sharma - The Chairperson, National Commission for Women
140 Shri C M Bahuguna - Alumni Nanhi Dunya, Dpty Inspector Gen Police (Rtd)
141 Dr. Vikas Amte - Secretary and Chief Functionary of the Maharogi Sewa Samiti
142 Shri Shekharanand Verma - General Secretary, Dr. Paripurnanand Verma Memorial Society

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 C O N T E N T

143 Manjul Kumar Joshi - IAS (Retd)

Harish Chandra - 1st National Gallantry Awardee – 1957
144 Commander Pawanjit Singh - Indian Navy
Shri S K Khanna
145 Anselma Remmers - Waldorf Teacher, The Netherlands
147 Col. Ravindra Kumar Mehrotra (Retd) - Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya
148 Shri Alok Kumar Jain - Financial Advisor And Chartered Accountant Of Nanhi Dunya
149 Shri Ved Prakash Jain - Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya
150 Dr. B.K. Endlay - Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya
151 Prof. Tirlochan Singh Bhasin - Educationist
152 Shri Vijay Kumar Goyal - National Volleyball Coach & Social Worker
153 Shri Yogendra Kumar Yogi - Nanhi Dunya, Hastinapur
154 Smt. Chhaya Sharma - Board of Trustee, Nanhi Dunya
155 Shri Ramesh Chand Sharma - Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya, Gandhian Activist
156 Dr. B. R. Mani, Former Director General, National Museum
& Vice Chancellor, National Museum Institute
157 Shri Satish Kumar - Mahaguru and Mentor, Educationist, Environmentalist
158 Shri Pier Luigi Luisi - Mentor and Founder-President APS 'Cortona friends'
159 Ajarn Sulak Sivaraksa - Buddhist spiritual leader, social transformer, a mentor - Siam
160 Hans van Willenswaard - Cultural Worker & Initiator - Thailand & the Netherlands
161 Shri Kuldip Shiva - Wing Commander (Retd.), Environmentalist of Uttarakhand
163 Shri Ivar & Smt. Johanna Heckscher - Artist, Founder, Mentor, Social Reformers
164 Margaret Shillan ji - Artist, Teacher, Mentor
165 Ong Kung Wai - Activist, Trainer And Consultant for Organic Agriculture Development
& Director of Steiner Education Malaysia
167 Shri Prashant Pangiar - Visual Artist, Author, Curator, Mentor
169 Shri Bhumesh Bharti - Photo Artist
170 Shri Ashok P Misra & Shri Satish Sharma - Garhwal Post
171 Jill Christie ji - Cultural Worker, Musician, Teacher
172 Grzegorz Bral - Actor, Director, Founder-Artistic Director Brave Festival & Brave Kids
173 Richard Ramsbotham - Mentor, Teacher, Performer, Author
174 Annie Blampied - Chair of Trustees of Emerson College and Interfaith Minister
175 Smt. Daniele Gaillemin - Mentor, Teacher, Director, Musician
176 Jenny Kenyon ji - Teacher, Cultural Worker, Seeker
177 Shri Raghubir Yadav - Actor, Singer & Composer
178 Smt. Sanjana Kapoor - Actor & Theatre Practitioner

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 C O N T E N T

179 Smt. Archana Puran Singh - Actor, Bharat

180 Shri Amish Tripathi - Minister (Culture & Education) at the High Commission of India in
the UK and Director of the Nehru Centre, London
181 Diana Dirnberger ji - Austria
182 Smt Kumkum Chavde - Alumani Nanhi Dunya, United Kingdom
183 Sue & Shri Ken Martin - Educationists - Plymouth University United Kingdom
184 Richard Dimbleby - Teacher, Lecturer - United Kingdom
Lesley Boocock ji -Secretary United Religions Initiatiives Netherlands
185 Michael Melchior - Teacher, Mentor, Counsellor - Switzerland
186 Svenja Büntjen - Founding Member of the KATÙ Waldorf School - Spain
187 Nana Göebel - Freunde Der Erziehungskunst Rudolf Steiners - Germany
188 Christine Hebbert - the Netherlands
189 Col. Neeraj Mehra - Nanhi Dunya Alumni
190 Col. Sanjay Agarwal, SM (Retd.) - Indian Army, Bharat
191 Dr. Atul Sharma - Poet, Playwright, Director
193 Shri Sunil Chopra - The Mayor Southwark, United Kingdom
194 Shri Shanti Swaroop Pradhan - Educationist, Artist, Painter & Expert of Hindi language
195 Remco & Tirza - the Netherlands
196 Joginder Kaur - Educationist and alumni Nanhi Dunya
197 Acknowledgements

Engage, Support, Sponsor, Volunteer

53 Child Enabling Fund - Sponsoring children
199 Joy of Volunteering - Gunjan Sethi
201 How to Volunteer
202 How to Join Nanhi Dunya

10
 olq/a kjk% dqVEq c

Nanhi Dunya in a Seashell

Nanhi Dunya, ‘The International (Intercultural) Movement of Children and
their Friends’, is a registered society run by a Board of Trustees. It is a pioneer initiative
dedicated to the welfare and happiness of the children of the world.

We are a community of over 50 dedicated teachers, co-workers, volunteers

serving over 1200 beneficiaries including children, youth, women and those with
special needs attending Nanhi Dunya's 9 centres/schools in and around the Doon
Valley. Nanhi Dunya gives special attention to economically deprived communities
that would otherwise have been forgotten.

Nanhi Dunya is open to new development in the fields of education and

community living. It renews itself by welcoming wholistic ideas and practices from
all around the world. Learning from the future is the way forward for the community.

A charitable initiative, Nanhi Dunya does not receive government grants and
runs on humble financial contributions from parents, sale of hand-made products
and gifts from benefactors. It is also supported by volunteer programs and inner
friends’ circle which helps to run its activities and strengthen the infrastructure.

As a highly committed "not for profit" and non-governemental movement

Nanhi Dunya can only flourish through active participation from the society,
corporations, other welfare organisations and compassionate individuals. Join us to
practically support our movement and commit to the welfare of children..

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12
 FOREWORD

l;Zw ;a= Alok Ji

To write about Nanhi Dunya for its it always stayed with me and lived so
Rainbow Platinum Jubilee was not easy for deeply in me that I created a new initiative
me, as one often loses perspective if one is along the lines of Nanhi Dunya. Away from
too close to things. home, I learnt the great 'Art of Unlearning'.
I understood that one can never return
My sister and I were born in Nanhi
home but only go there again, as one is
Dunya’s main house - the ‘Mother House’
always a new person. There is no coming
- in Dehradun, the home of the founders
BACK… no return. As this feeling was
(our parents). We grew up right in the
so strong in me, my relationships with
midst of the movement. Basking in its
everything and everyone at Nanhi Dunya
environment, we couldn’t help but learn
always remained fresh.
about education, social development and
many other things. We have witnessed As I matured and reflected on my
Nanhi Dunya’s trials, challenges and the youth, only then I realized how lucky I
whole process of its evolution. was to be at Nanhi Dunya. When visitors
from all over the world shared how
As a child, I thought Nanhi Dunya
they experienced it, I gradually saw the
was my grandmother… as my family could
subtlety of its dimensions. I was amazed
never stop talking about it and caring
to discover what a wonderful place had
for it. Sometimes it was a bit too much.
been created. The many congratulations
I ran away from Nanhi Dunya – and from
given to Nanhi Dunya reveal its purpose
myself - many times, but wherever I went,

13
and the depth of what it has contributed. often told that my parents were seeking
I have seen continuously published the real essence of life and had helped to
articles in many newspapers, magazines bring about positive changes. They lived
and journals about the life of this 'Little to give till the very end. My parents have
World' and myriad people have played now travelled on, beyond time and space.
a part in all its activities, and I see a We are so happy to be carrying the work
marvelous future ahead of it now. of our parents forward. With them I learnt
one must "live to serve."
I feel fortunate to have been a
student of Nanhi Dunya School. I enjoyed I have had the opportunity to
learning things through arts and through travel far and wide to learn, study,
my own experiences. I liked being helpful teach, attend seminars, conferences
and felt compassionate towards those who and direct plays in schools and colleges.
were less fortunate. I asked deep questions I have taught at the National School of
about everything and began to discover Drama, the Film and Television Institute
my own path in life. I learned to be like this of India, the ‘Right Livelihood’ Summer
at Nanhi Dunya and this has opened many School and at many colleges, universities
doors for me. Today my workshops and and further learning centres in India and
everything I do are imbued with the spirit abroad. The seeds of this evolving work
of Nanhi Dunya. were sown years ago during my childhood
in Nanhi Dunya.
Growing up with adorable
parents like mine, I wished they could I wish to thank my precious niece
be here forever. They lived in humble Satvika for being a powerful support,
circumstances yet took upon themselves for keeping the archives and remembering
some of the greatest challenges of society. the lovely stories. Her ever increasing
Many of my parents’ friends, who visited enthusiasm and sense of humour keeps
Nanhi Dunya, were some of the prime us all going. I would like to thank
devotees or students of great masters Gunjan Sethi for reflecting with me and for
like Gandhi ji, Thakur Rabindranath, Raja his tireless efforts to bring this publication
Mahendra Pratap, Meher Baba, Maharishi together. His ability to create through
Mahesh Yogi, Rudolf Steiner, Vinoba words, pictures and the digital medium is
Bhave and many others. I have very remarkable. We study, create educational
fond memories of meeting them and processes and travel long distances to find
learning from their simple, authentic and friends and ideas for Nanhi Dunya. Our
adventurous lives. Later on, tracing my enquiry never ends.
parents’ footprints, I travelled far and wide,
I also want to express my gratitude
and wherever I went I was welcomed by
to Late Acharya Agyat ji, Atul Chatterjee
amazing individuals and communities. I was
ji, Ashok P Misra ji, Satish Sharma ji,

14
Anjali Nauriyal ji and Ram Prasad Sundriyal Whenever I write about Nanhi Dunya,
Anuj ji for writing about Nanhi Dunya. I love to go into the roots, its history,
There are many friends who serve relationships and intentions, and every
as lighthouses for my journeys. time I remember something new and
Theosophist Shri Banmali Krishna inspiring.
ji, Shri Durga Prasad Pandey ji,
We hope that this book will convey
Shri Paripurnanand Verma ji,
the incredible work of Nanhi Dunya and
Dr. D. Paul Chaudhry ji, Ivar and Johanna
many people will join and support our
Heckscher, Pär Ahlbom, Margaret Shillan,
movement. The Hindi version is in the
Satish Kumar ji, Ramesh Sharma ji, Hans
making. While writing this book, so many
and Wallapa van Willenswaard, François
wonderful things happened along the way
and Daniele Gaillemin, Jenny Kenyon,
and in between words. Creating this work
Richard, and Christopher Ramsbotham,
has also brought together many wonderful
Sophie Ellison, Junko and Ong Kungwai,
memories and friends. This work has also
Halena Kringe, Michael Melchior ji, Daniela
started us on new writings. There is so
Griedar, Melanie Griedar - Swarovski,
much to be done and there is a rising sun
Damian Griedar, Julian Coxon, Anselma
for everyone.
Rammers, Stuart Smith, Tessa Abramovitz,
Annie Blampied, Ajay Singh ji, Anna Tanvir I bow to the mother Earth who
ji, Jill Christie ji, Nirmaldeep Sawhney ji, inspires us to carry the entire existence and
Shriya and Amardeep Jha ji, Barry John ji, journeys impartially; creating abundance
N K Sharma ji, V. K. Shrama ji, Kiran for all.
Sharma ji, Ira Chauhan ji, Purnima ji and
There is so much more to tell but
Marcin Kmita. I would also like to take the
for now here is our story.
opportunity to remember my teachers
from Emerson College, England who filled
my life with wonderful experiences and
wisdom.
Alok Ulfat
Thanks to my sister Kiran didi and Chief Education Coordinator
Vijay Goyal ji for standing by us through
[email protected]
thick and thin. They are the true custodians (0091) 98214 17495
of Nanhi Dunya.

Nanhi Dunya as a movement is

a constantly evolving work of art. I am
amazed at how with little external and
financial support Nanhi Dunya has grown
so beautifully and survived many crisis.

15
From left - Johanna ji, Ivar ji, Baba ji, Alok, Daniel, Ulfat ji, Sadhana Maa, Kiran Didi, Chungu ji

Bridges and splendid Suns - Embroidery by Ivar Heckscher

16
 Kiran Ji

Dear Friends,

Nanhi Dunya movement is like a child; innocent, delicate and self-renewing. Here the
children can see their wishes and dreams come true.
We feel fortunate to serve children with whole hearted dedication and energy.
Nanhi Dunya community with its multifaceted child welfare activities and its LIFE IN
LEARNING educational approach - thoar f’k{kk ’kSyh is sincerely trying to strengthen
individuals contributing to a healthier world.
In the past 75 years of seeking wholistic ways of living, engaging in deep thinking
and experimenting has strengthened the movement and simultaneously created hope for
a very bright future. We are confident that with fresh enthusiasm and committed friends,
Nanhi Dunya will go through many transformations.
We were entrusted with the sacred responsibility of Nanhi Dunya and we have
lived through many storms. The various sections of society have given us their utmost
support and our work has been appreciated all over the world. In pursuing social work, it
is natural to face many difficulties, we have fearlessly addressed them in the past and are
well equipped to face the challenges of the future.
We would like to express our gratitude to the countless teachers, social workers,
government officials, friends and family who have supported Nanhi Dunya. I express my
heartfelt thanks to our patrons and custodians, who are always encouraging us and lead
us to steer the movement in the right direction. I would also like to thank all the friends of
Nanhi Dunya who live abroad.
I would like to remember our past Board of Trustees with great reverence
and affection; Founder-Promoter Prof Lekh Raj Ulfat, Smt Harbans Sadhana Ulfat,
Shri Paripurnanand Verma, Raja Mahendra Pratap, Shri Om Kapoor,

17
Shri Satya Paul ji and many more. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks
to Shri Ved Prakash Jain, Dr B K Endlay, Smt Chhaya Sharma, Col. Ravindra
Kumar Mehrotra (Retd.), Shri Ramesh Sharma, Smt Asha Lata Shrivastav,
Shri Yogendra Singh, Shri Vijay Goyal, Shri Alok Ulfat and Km Satvika Goyal.
lR;a f'koa lqUnjम् ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’ - 'Truth, Renewal, Beauty' is our
Mahamantra of life. What I appreciate about Nanhi Dunya is its ever emerging activities.
The initiative is always in movement and gives us opportunity to work with aesthetics
and truth. Let’s join our hands and hearts to further this wonderful little world of children.
We welcome all those who wish to become co-creators of Nanhi Dunya by giving
their selfless service to this sacred work. The whole universe is our home and all living
beings are our family members. Therefore, our responsibility is also as vast as the universe.
There are so many things we can do for the children. Nanhi Dunya has elaborate plans to
start numerous projects and replenish the existing ones. We need support; financial and
otherwise. I humbly invite you to join us in this beautiful journey.
Until there is even a single deprived child in the world, Nanhi Dunya’s work
is not finished. Until our schools haven’t met our educational aims, Nanhi Dunya’s
work is not finished. Until every human being hasn’t developed sensitivity for the
environment and for a healthy united world, Nanhi Dunya’s work is not finished.
Sadhana Maa would often say - Within you lies the fullness of thousand festivals, so celebrate life.

75 years were glorious. We all have so many reasons to celebrate this wonderful
time. Congratulations to all. Let us live to serve the child.

Kiran Ulfat Goyal

Chief Promoter & Executive
[email protected]

Kiran Didi with teachers

18
 MESSAGES

It has been my firm belief that individuals with special needs can excel in all
dimensions of public life - be it education, employment, sports or cultural
activities, provided we create an enabling environment for them. I compliment
Nanhi Dunya for its noble initiatives for persons with special needs who are
among the most vulnerable sections of the society.

Hon. Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu - The Vice President of India

;gk¡ is vkidk ;wfudksMfuf'pr :i esa çks- ys[kjkt mYQr th }kjk lu~ ƒ‹†ˆ esa "uUgha
nqfu;k" uked jksfir ikni orZeku esa vius fuLokFkZ o yksd dY;k.kdkjh dk;ksaZ ls ,d oV
o`{k dk :i ys pqdk gSA uUgha nqfu;k dk ‰‡ o"kksaZ dk xkSjo'kkyh bfrgkl o dk;Zdky jgk
gSA ;g rHkh laHko gqvk gS fd tc vki lHkh dk ekuoh;] jk"Vªh; lsoklfgr f'k{kk {ks= o
tufgr ds dk;ksaZ dks djus ds çfr leiZ.k jgk gSA

ekuuh; Jh Hkxr flag dksf'k;jh & jkT;iky] egkjk"Vª

Hon. Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari - The Governor of Maharashtra

ghjd t;arh volj ij esjh LofLrdkeuk gSaA fo'okl gS fd bl volj ij çdk'; Lekfjdk
cPpksa ds fodkl ds fofHkUu vk;keksa] muds l`tu ls tqM+s ljksdkj j[krs gq, vf/kdkf/kd
ikBdksi;ksxh gksxh A

ekuuh; Jh dyjkt feJ & jkT;iky jktLFkku

Hon. Shri Kalraj Mishra - The Governor of Rajasthan

19
f'k{kk] [ksy&dwn] euksjatu] lkaL—frd xfrfof/k;ksa ds }kjk 'kkjhfjd] ekufld vkSj laosnukRed
fodkl çR;sd cPps dk vf/kdkj gS] ftlls os iwjh {kerk ls vius O;fäRo dk fodkl dj
ldsaA ge cPpksa ds lgh iks"k.k] LokLF;] f'k{kk vkSj LoLFk lekftd okrkoj.k ij ftruk
vf/kd /;ku nsaxs mruk gh mudk 'kkjhfjd vkSj ekufld fodkl vPNk gksxkA eq>s fo'okl
gS fd uUgh nqfu;ka LoLFk vkSj fo'ks"k cPpksa ds fodkl ds fy, fujUrjrk ds lkFk dk;Z
djrh jgsxhA

ekuuh; Jhefr vkuanhcsu iVsy & jkT;iky] mÙkj çns'k

Hon. Smt. Anandiben Patel - The Governor of Uttar Pradesh

On the occasion of Rainbow Platinum Jubilee, various activities like

seminars, conferences, culture and music show etc. are being organized.
I hope that your movement will bring a rainbow of happiness in the lives
of children. I hope that your movement will bring a rainbow of happiness
in the lives of children.

Hon. Shri Acharya Devvrat - The Governor of Gujarat

I am glad to know that Nanhi Dunya was founded in 1946 by Prof. Lekh
Raj Ulfat and together with his wife Smt. H. Sadhana Ulfat, he strove for
expansion of the movement to contribute to a peaceful, sustainable and
integrated environment with children at the centre of its focus.

Hon. Shri Biswa Bushan Harichandan - The Governor of Andhra Pradesh

I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude for the tasks your team
have taken up in the direction of providing an equal opportunity to obtain
education by the vulnerable sections of the society as no tasks before our
Nation is more important than expanding and improving the education
opportunities of our people.

Hon. Shri La Ganesan - The Governor of Manipur

20
It is really appreciable to note that Nanhi Dunya has not only been providing
basic education but also been offering creative learning opportunities to the
economically deprived background children.

Hon. Admiral D K Joshi - The Lieutenant Governor Andaman & Nicobar

I believe that the organization will continue to work for the noble initiatives
which it has been doing for the past many decades, and contribute to a peaceful,"
sustainable and integrated world with children at the centre of its focus. I convey
my best wishes to 'Nanhi Dunya' and all its members for their future endeavours.

Hon. Shri Manoj Sinha - The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir

Nanhi Dunya has been contributing to the education of children as well

as serving individuals with special needs, thus enabling them to play an
important role in the society.

Hon. Shri Om Birla - The Speaker of Lok Sabha

Bharat is a country of diversity. Nanhi Dunya movement is well known for

its events for diversity, theatre performances and dances. I congratulate the
teachers, co-workers and school community for participating in different
cultural events throughout the year. You should continue your efforts to
contribute by participating in international festivals to showcase our cultural
heritag… I am delighted to learn that NANAHI DUNYA through its various
platforms, like THE RANGSHALA for creative arts, RANG HIMALAYA - the
intercultural festival to celebrate diversity and Earth-Fellowship and by
participating in various national and international cultural exchange programs,
is providing innovative opportunities to children and youth from very early
age. Your contribution in nation building is highly appreciated.

Hon. Sri G Kishan Reddy - The Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and
Development of North Eastern Region

21
It is admirable that an organisation started a year before India's
independence has now completed over 75 years of dedicated work for the
welfare of children, youth and women through its multifaceted activities.

It is also remarkable to know that at Nanhi Dunya offers inclusive education

for abled and otherly-abled children. I understand by getting such an
opportunity children will learn to coexist and support each other.

Hon. Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji - The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand

I am happy to learn that over the years this welfare initiative launched
by Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat has been successful in transforming the lives of
thousands of children from diverse backgrounds through its educational
centres and social support programmes. I hope Nanhi Dunya will remain
steadfast in its endeavours to create a balanced world full of opportunities
for children in future as well.

Hon. Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma - The Chief Minister Of Assam

The world has witnessed India striding towards improving access to

quality education. Our nation has largest population of school going
students across the world, with 580 million in the age bracket of 5-24
years, presenting a huge opportunity in the education sector, that is more
than any other nation… I appreciate the welfare work performed by this
institution towards the society by conducting activities for children,
youth and women.

Hon. Shri Bhupendra Patel - The Chief Minister of Gujarat

22
Nanhi Dunya has been an icon of innovative education for all-round development
of the children's personality inculcating universal values of good citizenship
in them. Its founder Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat ji was a great. conceptualiser of new
India and a visionary to make a strong, prosperous and powerful nation on the
foundation of a happy children's world. I have been fortunate to be associated
with Nanhi Dunya as my father wanted to imbibe those values under the
patronage of respected Ulfat ji.

In India we often speak of foreign initiatives and institutions in the field of

children's education but we fail to recognize our own genius that created a new
path for making our children as leaders of a new Bharat. Nanhi Dunya deserves
the highest recognition by the government and society.

Hon. Shri Tarun Vijay - The Chairman, National Monuments Authority & Ex MP

Nanhi Dunya is a premier organization with a rich history of over seven

decades of noble service providing an ideal environment and platform for
the exchange of ideas and information regarding Technology, Education
Skills with the latest emerging trends.

Lt Gen Harinder Singh PVSM,AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM - - Indian Military

Academy (IMA)

Many societies, associations and institutions are in existence today taking

up worthwhile causes but 75 years ago it could not have been an easy task
to start a movement with the aim to contribute to a peaceful, sustainable
and integrated world with children at its core. I pray that such an earnest
movement may be bestowed with divine blessings.

Shri Mangal Lal Chand - The Director, Defence Electronics Application

Laboratory (DEAL)

23
I appreciate the valuable contribution made by the Nanhi Dunya
Movement in the field of child welfare and wish all the best for its future
endeavours.

Smt. Rekha Sharma - The Chairperson, National Commission for Women

The founder of Nanhi Dunya honourable Lekh Raj Ulfat was a good friend
of my grandfather Dr D.P Pandey and both of them worked for the growth
of child education which we find flourishing today in Nanhi Dunya. I
wish from core of my heart that the nine centres of the institution on
the occasion of their Rainbow Platinum Jubilee may touch the heights of
achievement and my sincere regards and appreciation may continue with
the management, staff and students of this temple of learning.

Dr B R Mani - Former Director General, National Museum &

Vice Chancellor, National Museum Institute - Government of India

I am associated with Nanhi Dunya since 1967 when I was posted as medical
officer in-charge Civil Hospital Vikas Nagar Dehradun. Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat
started Nanhi Dunya with a unique concept of making children creative
in studies and in life. Ulfat ji and Sadhana ji left no stone unturned in
giving children coming from humble and challenged backgrounds a world
class education, by inviting artists, cultural workers, educationists, social
workers, and volunteers from overseas. Mutual exchange programmes
enrich the school community. In this way Nanhi Dunya offers learning
beyond the curriculum.

Ulfat ji as an ideal teacher with powerful presence and a very good friend
of children. Now there are many branches of Nanhi Dunya, preparing
good individuals for present and future. I pray to mother goddess that
Nanhi Dunya, the center for universal friendship expands further.

Dr. B.K. Endlay

Member of Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya
Retd. Sr. Medical Superintendent Doon Hospital, Dehradun

24
 T H E S T O R Y O F N A N H I D U N Y A

बाल सभा - Children’s gathering - 1945

Nanhi Dunya ‘The International (Intercultural) Movement of Children and

their Friends’ was founded in 1946 by Prof Lekh Raj Ulfat (1920-1991).
With 8 children listening to stories and playing games
under a tree at the foothills of Himalaya,
in Dehradun, Northern India.

N
anhi Dunya began with learning through workshops for women
a clear intention of and young people, including those with
contributing to a peaceful, special needs.
sustainable and integrated world, where all
There are 1200 beneficiaries
living beings can live and grow in universal
attending these centres between the age
harmony.
of 3 to 16 years. There are 50 teachers, co-
At present, Nanhi Dunya has grown workers and volunteers engaged in various
into a widespread social movement. It runs activities of the movement.
10 welfare centres located in both urban
Nanhi Dunya has limited but not
and rural areas. They serve as schools,
limiting resources and is living with full
recreation centres and centres for ongoing
strength.
25
 In 1952 Prof Ulfat was joined by
his wife Smt Harbans Sadhana Ulfat (1925- 2001).
Together they attended to people’s greatest needs and strove
for the expansion of the Nanhi Dunya movement.
Soon many activities and new centres started to emerge.

Ulfat ji Sadhana Maa

N
anhi Dunya movement is Nanhi Dunya is recognised by both
primarily committed to state and central government, but does not
serving children, as they receive any government grants. It works with
are the creators of the future. It works strong support from the community and local
to nurture children, childhood and the means and material. Nanhi Dunya inspires
community without any bias based on people with its simplicity.
religion, economic status, intellectual or
Every year many visitors from India
other capacities, and with special attention
and abroad come to participate in Nanhi
given to every individual (children, teachers,
Dunya's activities and enrich the community
staff and volunteers), within a creative
by sharing their skills and exchanging
environment.
wonderful gifts.

26
Memories in Pictures

Open meeting in 1945

In the beginning - Ulfat ji with colleagues Happy happy bacchey bacchey

Children after a play performance at Townhall, Dehradun

27
The Mother House - Dalanwala, Dehradun - 1952

Together to share at the Nanhi Dunya Karanpur Branch 1964

Forward march with Jayant ji Ulfat ji & Sadhana ji with Indian Council for Child Welfare

28
 The Storyteller - 1948

Interdependent Individuals
At the inception of Nanhi Dunya,
Prof Lekh Raj Ulfat believed

“The little world of today’s children

can make or mar (ruin) the big world of
tomorrow. To help in the evolution of whole,
balanced, just and free (Svatantra) human
beings, let us live to serve the child. Every
child matters. These little beings of the future
will, in turn, then be able to contribute in a
positive way - spiritually, scientifically and
aesthetically – both to their own development
and to world evolution.”

We are one

Each one of us is original and the universe is our extension. The community must
strive to practice freedom, interdependence, inclusiveness and cosmic harmony.

29
 Nanhi Dunya
Aims and Objectives - 1946
• To provide welfare, service and happiness to children
of the world.

• To promote a spirit of reason, tolerance, love and

fraternity among children of the world, irrespective
of their cultural and economic background.

• To draw the attention of the public towards children and

the unique roles they are destined to play in the evolution
of a wholistic and a peaceful world.

• To promote a deeper awareness of the importance of

creative learning and innovative thinking.

• To integrate abled and differently abled children and

grown-ups in mainstream schools and in daily life.

• To find new dimensions in the field of education,

human development and community living.

• To respect one’s local surroundings and to work with

local means and material for self-reliance.

• To give special attention to the underprivileged and

economically deprived sections of the society. You are
therefore
• As a family of mother earth, we must strive to create
the right relationship with nature and its varied
I am
cultures.

30
 Community wide Cooperation

N
anhi Dunya did not start
with a preconceived idea
or fixed plan but was
created out of the response of people’s
needs. Ulfat ji was not a formally trained
teacher to begin with but someone who
realized that he wanted to contribute to
change things by helping children learn
wholistic ways of life.

Ulfat ji created a warm-hearted

circle of friends who understood his aims
Less is more - Beyond fancy classrooms
and supported his initiatives. Nanhi Dunya
has grown organically and flowered
into the present movement. The open-
minded approach and simplicity have
kept doors open for new ideas and endless
possibilities to grow into the future.

Mr. John B Thomson, an eminent

Waldorf teacher and lecturer from United
Kingdom, in his talk on the occasion of
Nanhi Dunya’s Golden Jubilee said:
Elders meet Smt. Prayag Devi Kapoor (Bahu ji)
“ In our times, there is an urgent
need to save and rebuild communities
(like Nanhi Dunya) because they are
disappearing. People all over the world
are finding themselves rootless and
alone. Only in the creation of the small
community, human beings again can find
their true selves. Ideas from communities
like Nanhi Dunya are so fertile that they
spring up here and there.”
Smt. Biswas, Social Activist addressing children & parents

31
 Children’s gathering on a misty morning - 1950

Movement for Earth-Fellowship

T
oday this authentic children’s the workplace, intolerance, violence, poverty
movement has gathered vast of thought, low priority given to arts based
experience in the fields of education, lack of spiritual awareness, etc.
education, child and woman's welfare and
But the biggest challenge was and
social work. Its founders and teachers worked
still is that the majority of people have lost
relentlessly to understand educational and
confidence in themselves. Over 1300 years
social challenges - such as the increasing
of invasions and of oppression of the India’s
gap between the wealthy and the poor,
indigenous population has bruised and
malnutrition, the neglect of physically,
derailed the whole culture.
mentally and emotionally challenged people,
corruption, greed, excessive materialism, There has always been an urgent
social and environmental degradation, need of a strong revival movement of
ignorance, feudalism, disconnection from our this lost confidence, and education is the
cultural roots, broken families and social fabric, strongest medium for change. With Nanhi
gender inequality, aping discarded western Dunya, a movement of Earth-Fellowship and
role models, competition, lack of dignity in interdependence has begun.

32
 Mother House - Nanhi Dunya 10 Inder Road

Small steps towards Diversity

A
fter India’s independence, Nanhi Dunya at that time inspired people
there was a new-found spirit to move forward in the direction of creating
to rebuild a nation, but on a universal outlook to build not only a
the other hand, there was also a marginal nation but a world of diversity. Nanhi Dunya
reaction to create narrow nationalism. A works to create a broad understanding of
narrow mind tends to conquer and consume, freedom. Its creative activities and generosity
but an open mind creates and offers. are integral part of its curriculum today.

Nanhi Dunya responded to

the challenges in much broader ways. “Constitutional freedom is not real
True freedom had to be attained; free freedom. Real freedom can only be achieved
from fear and nostalgia of the past, when each individual discovers one’s true
imitation of colonial ways of life, stifling Self and through awakened consciousness
fundamentalism etc. finds courage to give direction to one’s own
life and build a harmonious world”.
In creating freedom for others one
attains true liberation. It is not the expansion of - Ulfat ji
external territories but the internal realization
that can create a world of right relationships.

33
 Completing, Not Competing

U
lfat ji guided Nanhi Dunya to Nanhi Dunya’s community practises the
discover its own approach, principles of small schools and gently voices
character, purpose and a non-violent protest against educational
identity. Popular educational practices factories and challenges materialistic
are designed to instigate competition attitudes. The strength is in completing, not
and in most cases leads to destruction of competing.
individuality. Nanhi Dunya believes that
“A child is naturally curious, fearless
the process of Self-discovery liberates the
and wishes to touch everything. We must
individual from all limitations. Things
listen to children’s hearts. Their breathing
were never easy and Nanhi Dunya moves
tells us everything about them. Their eyes
against the winds.
can lead us to their soul. If you are still and
Inspired by Nanhi Dunya, many new can wait, you may really experience these
centres have emerged in the region. Nanhi wonderful beings. Play with them and make
Dunya welcomes volunteers from India friends. Schooling is a secondary concern”
and abroad to learn from its experiences. - Sadhana Maa

34
Memories in Pictures - Two

Mrs Wilks, Ulfat ji, Sri Durga Prasad Pandey ji, Acahrya ji

Play is a serious business

Ulfat ji and Sadhana ma with Mrs Ellen Roy Medical Camp

Wooden car, little travellers and Jayant ji Parents' meeting - education for life

35
Sri Raja Mahendra Pratap of Prem Dharma Sadhana Maa and her associates

Fathers are mothers too From traffic to Creative Centres

Sri Durga Prasad Pandey, student of Sri Rabindranath Thakur with Manava Bharati community, Mussoorie

36
 Nanhi Dunya
Approach to Education
The Nanhi Dunya offers child centred learning processes and
also devotes itself to enrich the entire school community.
While respecting the state curriculum,
Nanhi Dunya with its inclusive approach, is able to
innovate according to the needs and spirit of each child.

Nanhi Dunya Schools educational practice -

• Bringing to full flowering every child’s

physical, emotional, intellectual, social and
spiritual capacities

• Bridging the gap between wealthy and

economically deprived children

• Education towards community-wide Silence speaks - Speech class

cooperation and respect for manual labour

• Recognizing the artist in every child. Art as a

means of learning

• Encourage children to become co-creators of

the curriculum
Work is worship
• Emphasising the development of common sense
through intuitive movement and games, dance,
music and other creative disciplines

• Integrating children with special needs, such as

those with hearing and speech impediments,
autism, down syndrome, slow learners and Inclusive education - Tug of Life
other such children into main-stream schools.
Inclusive education will enable children to co-
exist with their differences

• Developing practical life skills, learning

resourcefulness and applied intelligence

• Helping replenish the Earth through ecological

awareness, participating in green activities and
learning from a nature, earth and community- Image thinking
based curriculum
37
John, German boy, Matt, Sophie with children

We are different therefore we are special

Learning from shadows

38
 The Nanhi Dunya Movement completed 75 years of service
to children and their families on the 17th November 2021.
The International (intercultural) movement of children and their friends,
founded in 1946, celebrated its Rainbow Platinum Jubilee
with a week-long rich cultural festival.

T
he Nanhi Dunya Platinum
Jubilee was celebrated with joy
and enthusiasm. The week-long
festival began on the 15th November with a
Kavi Sammelan - an inspiring evening of poetry
and sharing ideas. On the 16th November the
school community went for Prabhat Pheri - an
early morning walk to welcome the sunrise
Smt Kiran U Goyal- Chief Promoter followed by a Hawan - the fire ritual. In the early
evening a play ‘REDS & BLUES’ was staged for
the school community by Abhinav Goyal’s Aina
Theatre Company, directed by Kala Drapan's
Pt. Suwarn Rawat. The interactive play was
highly appreciated.

On the 17th November, a spectacular

dance performance ‘ONE EARTH’ with a medley
of world music was performed by 55 children,
Sri Vijay Goyal, Sri Tarun Vijay, Sri Ramesh Sharma directed by the highly talented Satvika Goyal.
The events were well received and many

39
Rising sun Khushi, Satvika Goyal, Mehek - Great Leaders

inspiring speeches brought back memories,

joyful tears and many new plans for the future
development of the movement. The children's choir
also sang ‘Chalo Chalein’ - lyrics & music composition
by Alok Ulfat and the adaptation of the famous song
‘We are the world’.
Observing history of Nanhi Dunya
A souvenir of Nanhi Dunya’s journey
consisting of pictures and articles was also released
by Sri Tarun Vijay, former Member of Parliament
and Chairman of the National Monuments
Authority and Sri Ramesh Sharma, a Gandhian
activist. This souvenir written by Alok Ulfat and
designed by Gunjan Sethi beautifully tells the story
about the movement’s history, pictures, vision and
future plans. Also an exhibition of images from the Hawan ceremony
history to the present times of Nanhi Dunya was
inaugurated by educationist Smt Chhaya Sharma
and Smt Shikha Malhotra.

On the 20th, a conference on ‘Environment’

was held to share concerns for the environment of
the Himalayas. The environmentalists, activists and
teachers led by Smt Ira Chauhan and Kumari Retu
Chatterjee, spoke about the challenges and the hope
Handloom products on sale
for a green future of the Doon Valley.

The event culminated with two plays

‘Khidki’ and ‘Ek Ruka Hua Faisla’ staged on the 21st
and ‘Khidki’ on 22nd November at Avikal Studio,
Inder Road by the youth theatre group ‘Eklavya’.

The festival was kept small due to Corona

restrictions. However, there are plans for an
elaborate celebration in the near future. May Nanhi Exhibition
Dunya blossom and continue to celebrate childhood
for the years to come.
40
Siddhi, Anant ji, Ramesh ji, Danuta, Ojasya, Deepak ji, Kavita ji, Alok ji, Swami Aman, Kiran ji, Anil ji Ojasya, flowers and Kiran Didi

O
jasya Soham Ulfat, the Nanhi Dunya has been on an
grandson of Sadhana Maa and extremely challenging journey. However, its
Ulfat ji, dedicated his first song little schools and welfare centers are always
‘Runnin' Along the Sky’ to Nanhi Dunya. The approachable. They encourage wholistic
14 year young singer of Garhwal is elegantly thinking and community development,
simple and has an innocent voice. The song creating opportunities for creativity, self-
was written and composed by his father motivation and self-reliance for individuals
Alok Ulfat. It is a mountain song inspired of various abilities. Nanhi Dunya remains a
by Dehradun's natural life that reflects love pioneer in innovative educational practices
for the valley and is sung in English. The and is the mother of alternative initiatives
song was recorded with guitars by Sangeet in the region. It respects micro-level
Charles, Vipul Mohriyal, and Programming practices.
& Sound Engineering by Shubham Sahota of
Plunex Studio.

The growing community

41
 Rainbow Bridge

Ashu Satvika Goyal ji Lighting the lamp for a brighter future Sri Ramesh Sharma ji

Ms. Danuta Nanhi Dunya Platinum Jubilee Book launch Sunflowers - Khushi, Ashu, Ewelina, Sanya

Sri Tarun Vijay, Smt Kiran Goyal Guests enjoying the marvelous event Smt Manjari Bakshi

Rejoicing Dancing Sanya

42
 Nanhi Dunya Centres

N
anhi Dunya literally
translated means the ‘little
world’. It intentionally
develops small human scale initiatives
and has no wishes to build large industrial
schools. Therefore, whenever possible a
new centre is created at the doorsteps of
children’s homes and communities.

The small student-teacher ratio in Small is beautiful

Nanhi Dunya enables the teachers to give

‘Small is beautiful’ has been the
full-hearted attention to each individual.
guiding principle for building the Nanhi
A unique process of personalized active
Dunya centres. It is in a human scale
learning has been made possible.
artistic environment where the individual
Mr. John B Thomson, a close friend blossoms fully. Here one gets an opportunity
of the movement said “What Prof. Lekh Raj to mirror each other, inquire and share their
& Mrs Sadhana Ulfat created many years findings, learn new skills and discover their
ago was an inspiration. They seem to know true selves by working together in everyday
that if one is going to make anything really life. Nanhi Dunya was built out of small
great, one has to make it small.” contributions of its friends.

He added “We have built a very big

complicated world. We can all fly to every
corner of the world in a few hours yet we
know that this world which we have created is
often impersonal. A world which is sometimes
beyond the measure of human beings. When
we build a small world, it is reachable, we
can reach other human beings and make new
friends. And so, we can build many small
In 1957 Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru,
worlds and in these small worlds everyone
the first Prime Minister of
India presented a cheque of
can find his or her space, every talent, every
Rs 1000 to Nanhi Dunya to
capacity, every aspiration, every memory,
extend his support and trust in
every intention can be realized. Nanhi Dunya
the movement.
is such a unique small world of possibilities.”

43
44
 Nanhi Dunya Creative School - Inder Road

N
anhi Dunya Inder Road, Camps, Study Center, Steiner Bhawan,
Mother House was Center of Research and Publication,
founded in 1946 in weaving and tailoring workshops, a full
Dehradun at Inder Road, and serves as range of theatre activities, gymnastics and
the headquarters of the movement. In 1947, Yogic activities, festivals, poetry evenings,
the very first Nanhi Dunya Bal Sabha with its talks and seminars, short film viewings,
new unconventional approaches thinking book readings, concerts, and a place for
was founded. Set up in the Dalanwala area, students, volunteers, visiting teachers to
it is a highly respected school. share their common concerns.

This centre has been a place The centre welcomes volunteers to

for meetings, dialogues, seminars, help in working with children and conducts
experimentation, creative workshops, various artistic activities like intuitive
performing arts residency workshops, movement, gymnastics, drawing, painting,
short-term teacher-training, youth sculpting, computer training, working
activities, homoeopathic dispensary, a with nature, environmental awareness,
guest house, children and staff housing. theatre performances and also designing
It is a soulful handmade space and new activities. Young interns are welcome.
has maintained its character since its
inception.

Today it runs an inclusive school

from kindergarten to the eighth class. The
children are looked after by a wonderful
group of teachers and volunteers. The
other activities include Children's Creative

45
 Nanhi Dunya School - Karanpur

T
he Nanhi Dunya Karanpur A remarkable event of this centre
school came into being to showed the spirit of inclusiveness when
care for refugee families that Sadhana ji accepted 26 children of parents
had come from newly created Pakistan. from KKM, a leprosy colony founded by
By listening to their plight Nanhi Dunya Agnes Kunze ji from Germany and Pierre
provided them with a space to meet and ji, from France. None of the children had
share urgent concerns, a place for mothers inherited leprosy and their parents had been
and infants, an activity centre for children, a fully cured, but those were the times when
counselling centre, a dispensary and a place society in general had serious reservations
to solve minor disputes in the community. about mingling with leper communities.
Nanhi Dunya was the first one to take the
In 1951 Ulfat ji borrowed funds and
bold step of enrolling these lovely children
rented land to create a temporary wooden
and facing the withdrawal of 72 out of the
structure that housed the activities. Later
total 250 then studying children. The gifted
in 1953 Sadhana Maa, realising that the
children of KKM, today, after having finished
loans were difficult to pay, sold her entire
higher education have found respected jobs
precious wedding jewellery and purchased
such as doctors, armed forces personnel,
that land.
Merchant Navy sailors & entrepreneurs, to
name a few, adding to hundreds of families
enjoying healthy lives in the society that
Nanhi Dunya has touched.

The Karanpur Branch now runs

a primary school and provides space for
artistic activities to the youth and local
theatre companies.

The first wooden house Future Plans are to build:

• Women's Welfare Projects

The initial building was made
with wooden planks but this humble • Working women’s hostel
building got burnt down and the cause is • Vocational training programs for
still unknown. With perseverance, a new parents of the children
building was made. On 24th May 1959 • Workshops and a seminar space for the
Dr K. L. Srimali, the then Honourable community
Education Minister, inaugurated the new
• An amphitheatre
building, further strengthening the school
activities.
46
 Nanhi Dunya Primary - Prem Nagar

P
rem Nagar primary School
was set-up in 1961 to support
the children of tea plantation
workers and refugees displaced from Pakistan.
Presently it runs a Kindergarten and a Primary
School and provides space for women to meet
and support one another.

Prem Nagar is densely populated School reception

and has a population of around 12 thousand.
With many growing children, the centre has
a possibility to start multiple after-school
activities.

Future plans: The center will strengthen

educational and vocational activities for adults
in the second part of the day.

Vocational Training Centre: Prem Nagar Mothers’ Group- Mahila Mandal

centre is in the heart of the market place and

we urgently need funds and resources to
build a vocational training unit for mothers
and an outlet for local crafts and organic food.
This income generating project will be a step
towards self-sufficiency.

With the help of government

departments and corporations we hope to School building
realise our aim of rejuvenating this branch.

Hopeful mothers’ group Displaced mothers and children - 1948

47
 Nanhi Dunya School - Chander Nagar

N
anhi Dunya Chander Nagar was
formed in 1966 with the aim of
providing education and care for
children, and conducting women's welfare activities.
Its focus at the inception was to serve the families
displaced from Pakistan and children from the slums.

Today it runs a school from nursery to

class Eight, with special attention given to the
needs of the underprivileged children. However
the school urgently needs an improvement of its Chander Nagar Campus
infrastructure to strengthen its activities.

Cultural exchange volunteers

Sri V P Jain, Smt Asha ji, Smt Kiran ji with

Mrs Sophie Ellison inaugurating Architectural Association
School Project, London at the Chander Nagar centre

Future plans:
Classrooms
• To set-up computer classes and library

• To begin a unit for self-help women’s group

by creating employment and also generating
income for the school to run its activities.

• To begin a kindergarten teacher training and

build facilities for training purpose.

• To build residential facilities for working

women to generate resources and build a
community for the school. Sadhana Maa giving - Teacher Training Course

48
 Nanhi Dunya
Rural Development Projects

Doon Valley, North India

A
fter India got its
independence, there were
hardly any schools in the rural
areas. Pre-Primary education was scarcely
available. Some children went to attend
schools far away at the age of 10-11 years.
Little children lacked opportunities and this
became a concern for the Nanhi Dunya
community, resulting in rural Bal Bari
- kindergartens near the homes of the Together we grow

children. The new centres began in

Doiwala Village, Kanwali Village, Johri
Village, Sahaspur Village, Selaqui
Village, Resham Majri, Mawana,
Bahasuma, and Bhagwanpur Village.

The Ulfats encouraged rural people to

begin their own community centres and
develop them according to their needs.
Nanhi Dunya created an ecosystem to
support these centres. Sadhana ji would
request the Pradhan (the Village head) to
provide a temporary space either in his own
backyard or any other space where the centre
could begin.

The local Bal Sevikas - cky lsfodk -

young aspiring teachers, mainly girls, were Joy of caring - Health check-up
49
 Morning Circle

given scholarships and they moved to the

Nanhi Dunya main branch for approximately
two months to learn about the basic
principles of education; physical health, child-
psychology and emotional development,
creative-learning processes, games and songs
to enhance the growth of children. Later
these young teachers would return to their Thank you Radda Barnen for the new classroom
own villages, and with Nanhi Dunya’s support
start their own little rural centres for children.
As these centres became self-reliant a strong
community was created for new welfare
activities. Through enriching experiences
innovative ways of teaching emerged, giving
the community a sense of self-respect and
strength for innovation for the future.

Small seeds sown during that

time developed into today's more stable Festivals and children make a school
Kindergartens, Primaries and Junior-
Highs. With the changing times many
kindergartens merged into other schools
or closed down as the villages transformed
into cities. The present rural centres
of Nanhi Dunya are Kanwali Village,
Sahaspur Village, Hastinapur Village
(autonomous status), and Bhagwanpur
Village. Many plans are underway
to develop new rural projects.
School of flowers

50
 Nanhi Dunya Junior High School - Vikas Nagar
Centre for Environmental Education

N
anhi Dunya Vikas Nagar
Junior High School was
founded in 1960 on a two
and a half acre plot of land. This centre was
formed to support the educational needs
of the children of tea garden workers.
This organic environmental project has
a garden and a fruit orchard. The centre
Vikas Nagar Community
grows vegetables, mango, guava, kinu,
chakotra, jackfruit, and grains like lentils,
wheat, sesame and mustard seeds etc.

The centre runs a nursery,

kindergarten and junior high school and
has a total of 170 children in the age group
3-16 years. The diverse community of
parents includes families from rural and
Towards Earth School
mountain regions. The school is recognised
by Uttarakhand Educational Board and
receives no government grants.

Nanhi Dunya Centre for

Environmental Education also offers a
Child, Community and Nature centred
curriculum for those who are interested
in alternative education. The integrated
interdisciplinary streams of learning through
Building classrooms
art connects the children with nature.

There are no fixed fees. Parents

contribute according to their individual
capacities. Teachers earn a small
honorarium and volunteers sponsor
themselves. The school also serves as a
community centre and provides a space for
art, culture and environmental workshops. Building project complete

51
 Future Plans for
building the Vikas Nagar Upper School

UPPER SCHOOL PLAN FUND RAISING PLAN

Over the years the school has The new school construction
grown from Kindergarten to class plan will be based on ecological principles
Eight, and there is an urgent need and community participation.
to extend the school to class Twelve
To construct a complete school
with affiliation to the Government
up-to class Twelve, we need to build
Educational Board.
twelve new class rooms, two science
The Government Board and ‘Life in laboratories, a media & communication
Learning’ approach will complement each- centre, an art space, sports facilities, a
other to create the new integrated school. library for parents and children, a teachers'
Over the 12 years of child’s education, the room, accommodation for 50 children,
community will be able to observe child’s dining spaces, toilets, staff houses. We also
full growth. It is also a step towards self- need a bus, a pickup truck for goods and a
reliance and building a strong progressive van for the teachers.
community. This school will also serve as a
We will work to raise the needed
resource centre for all the other branches
funds with the help of the government,
of Nanhi Dunya.
private corporations and friends in India
With the commencement of and abroad. A detailed fund-raising
the Child Enabling Fund, fully sponsored proposal and appeal is available on demand.
children will join the Nanhi Dunya Schools.

JOIN US TO MAKE THE CHANGE

Be a volunteer and help us in creating activities for children,
fund raising for the project, architectural designing, eco-friendly
construction work, landscaping, gardening, planning, networking,
filming and documentation.
Contact us:
(0091) 98214 17495 - Alok Ulfat - Project Director
(0091) 95572 80116 - Satvika Goyal - Project Coordinator
Email - [email protected]
53

Child Enable Fund

C
hild Enabling Fund nurtures children by providing
wholistic education and creative environment for
self-discovery through ‘Life in Learning’ approach. By
helping children realize their unlimited potential we ensure they will
be capable to master their own lives and support the community.

The school will be affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary

Education, supported by ‘Life in Learning’ activities to strengthen
their physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual capacities.

Children from underprivileged backgrounds are usually deprived of

progressive education of creative schools. Most government schools
provide free education but are unable to meet the inner needs of a
child due to various pressures.

We have experienced if given the opportunities children from

any background can learn to be independent, cultivate authentic
thinking, develop resourcefulness and accomplish practical life skills.
54
 Ancient Indian Culture
- the spirit of Universal Education

A
s we all know that Ancient Resilient India 'Bharat' has gently and
Indian Culture is the fruit unconditionally shared its wisdom with the
of millennia of wholistic world. Learning and unlearning go hand in
practices and infinitely deep questioning. We hand. Here, seeming chaos has hidden order.
see marvellous achievements in the fields of Seekers form all over the world come to
education of the Self and the Universe, Yog, Bharat for Self-seeking and Self-
Naturopathy, Ayurved, Vedic mathematics, realisation.
Yogic architecture, Metallurgy, Textiles,
Bharatiya communities had realised
Agriculture, Astronomy, Fine and Performing
that the Self is the Universe. They learnt
Arts, Dance forms - Folk and Classical,
that nature creates authentic forms.
Sciences - Metaphysical and Physical, Life
Therefore no two leaves are the same,
oriented Commerce, Social Science, Healing
nor do two animals of the same species
etc. As with nature the most lasting truths
resemble each other. Fluidity is nature's
here are also renewable. The Bharatiya seers
law, the Bharatiya education encourages
have expressed that even to say “don't be
flexibility and challenges rigidity and
rigid” is also a form of rigidity.
tendency of stereotyping. Science and
In Indian 'Bharatiya' technology, philosophy, literature, arts,
medicine and healing were not merely
philosophy nothing external
for limited materialistic gains, but for the
interferes with one’s relationship inner well-being of all existence - losZ HkoUrq
with the eternal. There is room to lqf[ku% - May all beings be healthy-
interpret the present relevance of 'The human being' is an endless
ancient knowledge and to make possibility and a great transformer. Life
it one’s own, with no compulsion is not an examination but a journey of
to convert or conform to a single celebrations. It develops cyclically, in
spiralling forms, and is forever flowing.
ideology. Here the environment and
The principles of reincarnation are
the individual’s innate tendencies practiced daily by many. We are each unique
'Sanskar' naturally encourage yet also a continuity of the Cosmos. Every
plurality. tiny thing we do affects the whole universe.

55
 Humans have a deep quest for
freedom. At the same time, conversely, we are
the most oppressive of species. That, which
we call religion needs continuous renewal or
it will confuse and mislead.

In educational processes we as
teachers must objectively reflect upon
challenges and the needs of both people
Metamorphosis and hope
and the planet. By rediscovering what it
In the past this knowledge revealed itself in is to be human, the learning processes
innumerable forms; life-renewing must strengthen the Will through the
architecture, spiritual texts, food as wonderful world of movement and rhythm.
‘Prasadam’ - sacred and medicinal, and Storytelling and imagination must spark
the processes of daily life. People have intuitive abilities. Compassionate observation
aspired to create art in their own unique and the need to serve in daily life will awaken
way and to discover timelessness within. a deep sense of responsibility.
The scriptures were based on questioning
and reveal an awakened consciousness.

Nonetheless, patterns do
repeat themselves and human beings
have a tendency to get stuck in
their compulsive behaviour, beliefs,
limited individual identities, and the
intractability of physical existence.
Childhood in the moment
The industrial world continues
relentlessly to create the illusion of In the past, Indian educational
permanence. Large industries run and cultural processes were systematically
stripped away by the oppressors. Culture
on profit oriented principles that
and history were manipulated to serve
promote endless consumption and their goals and their gain. After India’s
exercise control mindlessly. On the independence the suppression continued
by new race of indigenous oppressors.
other hand, with awareness and
Yet it is astonishing to see how the original
healing, one can stay connected with culture has continued to flourish through
the wide expanse of the Universe. innumerable eras, phases, catastrophes,

56
 external and internal invasions, turmoil, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudeva (a Yogi, Mystic
and conflicts. and Spiritual Scientist, founder of Isha
foundation and teacher of Ancient Yogic
Presently, the world has been
Science and Culture), Sri Sri Ravishankar’s
rediscovering the wisdom-filled Indian
Art of Living and Vandana Shiva (the
ways of learning and unlearning. We see
founder of Bijavidyapeeth and Navdanya),
that now ancient Indian wisdom is being
Ajarn Sulak Sivaraksa (a social thinker and
re-explored, valued and adopted by people
founder of Wongsanit Ashram), Hans van
around the world.
Willenswaard (a cultural worker and the
Nanhi Dunya has been enriched by founder of many initiatives) and many more.
the illuminated guides from past and present;
Nanhi Dunya has been practising
great seers and sages of Bharat, Rabindranath
the art of education and continues to
Thakur’s Shantiniketan, Mahatma Gandhi’s
draw wisdom from various educational
vocational education, Steiner Education, Prof
processes worldwide. Its wholistic
D J Van Bemmelen, the Camphill Movement
interdisciplinary findings aims to
and the visions of Swami Vivekanand, Sri
enable the development of new
Aurobindo, J. Krishnamurti, and in recent
ways of learning and to support the
times many ideas of Pär Ahlbom’s Intuitive
growth of the 'whole human being'.
Pedagogy, Satish Kumar’s Small School,
Pier Luigi Luisi (scientist, philosopher
- Alok Ulfat with contributions from
and the founder of Cortona-week),
Richard Ramsbotham and Gunjan Sethi.
Fritjof Capra (a deep ecologist, physicist
and the founder of Centre for Ecoliteracy)

- Alok Ulfat
Nanhi Dunya Inder Road
57
Circle of friends Nanhi Dunya

One Universe - Earth-Fellowship - Stand together for Diversity

58
 Saraswati Maa - Devi of Wisdom
by Sadhana Ulfat

M
aa Saraswati Devi ‘ljLorh She is flanked by a Swan and a
nsoh’ is the goddess of Peacock. The Swan (Hans) - gal, can swim
wisdom. She represents in and out of water symbolizing the human
grace, knowledge, creativity, music, art and ability to witness the consciousness within
many finer qualities. The name Saraswati and outside. Hans also has the ability of
comes from the Sanskrit root 'Saras' - separating milk from water, symbolizing
ljl, which means "that which is fluid and the power of positive discrimination
‘wati’ - orh means that which contains. (buddhi) - cqf). The peacock represents
The word Saraswati is also derived from grace. Both birds inspire us to be attentive
'Su ras' - lq jl – pure essence. As a mother and be free from arrogance.
she is seen as an eternal flow of inspiration,
Maa Saraswati is also known as
intuition and imagination.
'Gayatri' - xk;=h. Gayatri was attracted

59
by the brilliance of the Sun ‘Surya’ - lw;Z Saraswati Maa is also revered as
and created herself to become the Gayatri an eternal river - the river of the visible
Mantra. She invokes the power of positive and the invisible. Her flowing waters
discrimination. She being the Shakti - 'kfä
inspire us to move forward, stay
provides both gross and subtle strengths.
absorbed, attentive and playful. There
She is also known as Vakdevi or the are many stories of the river's origin
‘Devi of Speech’ vibration, language and
and how it appears and disappears.
words. Bharat has been a culture of oral
traditions. All sacred texts were orally Isn't it interesting that children
transmitted to us. Here great respect was are formed in a liquid environment of
given to speech, to modulations, poetry, the mother's womb and so they are
imagery and rhythms. naturally drawn to water. The spontaneous
movement of water always lights up their
She is also bestowed with the
imagination. Their energies flow in flexible
power of Shruti (listening) and
processes and a harmonious environment.
Smriti (intuitive memory). Alankar
For them it is easy to adapt, create, transform
- Aesthetics and eternal beauty.
and improvise. All centres for learning must
Humans are blessed with marvellous learn from the qualities of water to create
faculties of learning. Our curiosity, flexible and resilient processes of learning.
imagination and playfulness keeps us
engaged with life. Our physical being enjoys
all kinds of sensations and our minds long
for intellectual and creative nourishment.

While growing up we discover the

difference between the real and the unreal,
truth and untruths. We face all kinds of
challenges but if we have mastered the art
of breathing, listening and spontaneous
participation, we can face the challenges of
life with courage. She is also the Goddess
of Patience ‘/kS;Z’ and elegant simplicity.
Contemplating her being brings inner
healing and rejuvenation. Maa Saraswati
has always been a guiding force for learning
communities. With her blessings, we can
achieve self-realization ‘vkRe Kku’ - Atma
Gyan. There is no realisation greater than
Self-realisation. Elsa with Children

60
 ea=] 'yksd ,oa Lrks=
MANTR, SHLOK & STOTR

ॐ
Oṃ
ॐ czãka M dh /ofu gSA
ॐ dh /ofu gh l `f"V dk ewy gSA
Hkwr] orZeku vkSj Hkfo"; ॐ esa lekfgr gSA

Oṃ or āuṃ is the original vibration of the universe.

The sound 'om is the very root of all creation.
'Om is a harmonious sound of past, present and future.

Sohuṃ - Upanishad

vki gks rks eS a gw¡ - You are therefore I am

The mantra insipres one to regard all as oneself

ā no bhadrā kratavo yantu viśvata - Rig Veda

lHkh fn'kkvksa ls ikou fopkj gekjs ikl vk,¡

Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions

ekaṃ sadviprā bahudhā vadanti - Rig Veda

That which is the creator is ONE; seers express it as many names and forms
tks l`tu djrk gS og ,d gS] ge bls dbZ ukeksa vkSj :iksa esa O;ä djrs gSa
This Sutra quote is seen in over one hundred Upnishads (There are 108 Upnishads).

vasudhaiva kuṭumbakam - Maha Upanishad

lEiw.kZ i`Foh ,d ifjokj gS

The whole earth is one family

61
 Oṃ pūrṇamadaḥ pūrṇamidam pūrṇāt pūrṇamudacyate
pūrṇasya pūrṇamādāya pūrṇamevāvaśiṣyate
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ - Isavasyopanishad

ॐ] og iw.kZ gS] ;g Hkh iw.kZ gS]

iw.kZrk ls iw.kZ dh mRifÙk gksrh gS]
;fn iw.kZrk ls iw.kZrk fudky nks
rks tks 'ks"k jg tkrk gS oks Hkh iw.kZ gksrk gS]
ॐ] 'kkafr] 'kkafr] 'kkafrAA
Om, This is perfect, That is perfect.
From perfection originates perfection. If the perfect is taken away, the perfect remains
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ

oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ suvaḥ | tat savitur vareṇyaṃ |

bhargo devasya dhīmahi | dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt|| - Rig Veda

ॐA ge lw;Z dk /;ku djrs gS a] tks i`Foh] ç—fr vkSj czãkaM dks thou çnku djrk gSA ge çkFkZuk djrs gS a fd lw;Z
dk fnO; çdk'k gekjh cqf) dks tkx`r djs] rkfd ge thou dks mfpr fn'kk es a ys tk lds aA

With the sound Oṃ, we meditate on the supreme energy of the Sun that illumines all realms of
the earth, nature and the Cosmos. May the divine light of the sun illumine our intelligence
so we can give right direction to ourselves.

62
 Oṃ saha nāv avatu saha nau bhunaktu saha vīryaṃ karavāvahai |
tejasvi nāv adhītam astu mā vidviṣāvahai |
Oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ || - Upanishad

ॐA ge cPps o xq#tu lnso lqjf{kr jgsa] ge vkuafnr jgs a ,d lkFk ijkØe djs a] gekjh fo|k vkstLoh gksA
ge ,d nwljs ls }s"k uk djs aA ॐ 'kkafr 'kkafr 'kkafrAA

Oṃ, may we children and teachers always be safe, may we be joyful, may we labour together with courage, may our
learning be radient. Let us not be jealous of each other. oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ

Oṃ asato mā sadgamaya|
tamaso mā jyotirgamaya|
mṛtyormā amṛtaṃ gamaya|
Oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ || - Brhadaranyaka Upanishad

ॐ gesa vlR; ls lR; dh vksj ys pyks]

va/kdkj ls çdk'k dh vksj] e`R;q ls eq>s vejrk dh vksj ys pyks]
ॐ 'kkafr 'kkafr 'kkafrAA

Oṃ, Lead us from falsehood to truth, From darkness to light,

From death to immortality,
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ

63
 sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ sarve santu nirāmayāḥ|
sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu mā kaścidduḥkhabhāg bhavet|
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ|| - Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

ॐ lHkh vkuafnr gks a] lHkh jksx eqä gksos a] lalkj ds lHkh çkf.k;ksa dk thou eaxye; gks] dksbZ d"V u HkksxsA
ॐ 'kkafr 'kkafr 'kkafrAA
Oṃ, May All be Joyful and Prosperous, May All be Free from Illness.
May All See what is Auspicious, May no one Suffer. (praying for all existence - both living and non-living beings)
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ

Oṃ dyau: Śāntirantarikṣam̐ śānti:

Pr̥ thvī śāntirāpa: Śāntirōṣadhaya: Śānti: |
Vanaspataya: Śāntirviśvē dēvā: Śāntirbrahma śānti:
Sarvam̐ śānti:, Śāntirēva śānti:, Sā mā śāntirēdhi|
Oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ|| - Yajurved

ॐ gs ijekRek Lo:i] 'kkafr dhft,A ok;q esa 'kkafr gks] varfj{k esa 'kkafr gks] i`Foh ij 'kkafr gks] ty esa 'kkafr gks] vkS"kf/k;ksa
esa 'kkafr gks] ouLifr;ksa esa 'kkafr gks] fo'o esa 'kkafr gks] lHkh nsorkx.kksa esa 'kkafr gks] czã esa 'kkafr gks]
lc esa 'kkafr gks] pkjksa vkSj 'kkafr gks] gs ijes'oj 'kkafr gks] 'kkafr gks] 'kkafr gksA
ॐ 'kkafr 'kkafr 'kkafrAA

Oṃ, May there be Peace be in Space; May there be Peace on Earth; May there be Peace be in the Waters; May there be
Peace in Herbs; May there be Peace in Plants; May Peace be with the Devas; May there be Peace in the Universe;
May there be peace in All and peace All around; May the Divine bless us with Peace.
oṃ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ

64
 INSPIRATIONAL BEINGS

Shiva the Adiyogi Saptarshi Sri Krishn Sri Gautam Budhh Swami Mahaveer

Devi Gargi Vachaknavi Bharat Muni Acharya Chanakya Rshi Patanjali Adishankaracharya

Guru Nanak Dev ji Devi Savitribai Phule ji Guru Sri Ramakrishna ji Sarada Ma Swami Vivekanada

Sri Aurobindo Gandhi ji Sri Ramanamaharshi Sri S Radhakrishnan J Krishnamurti

Avatar Mehar Baba Maharshi Mahesh Sri A P J Abdul Kalam Sri Sri Ravishankar Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev

65
 A W A K E N I N G

Sant Kabir Das

Thakur Rabindranath

Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high
Where knowledge is free
Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls
Where words come out from the depth of truth
Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection
Where the clear stream of reason
has not lost its way into the dreary desert sand of dead habit
Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever-widening thought and action
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake.

66
 Life in Learning
vkuks Hkæk% Øroks ;arq fo’or%
Let noble thoughts come to us from all directions

'Life in learning' engages individuals and learning communities through

deep observation of rhythms of nature. The approach encourages inclusiveness
and respects diversity in all its forms and strongly believes that we don't live
in the Universe but we are the Universe. Minerals, plants, animals, humans,
the spiritual realm and all that is unknown to us altogether make up the earth-
family and give us 'Earth-Fellowship'.

Learning environments must be evolutionary spaces for children and

grown-ups, free from conditioning. In these joyful places, the entire community
learns about themselves and the Universe through creative processes, various
disciplines, innovative engagements and festivals. The approach involves artistic
processes to encourage learning from the Will, innovative thinking, compassion
to build right relationships with beings and things. This renewable approach
of teaching, learning and unlearning aims to support the growth of skilled,
imaginative and courageous individuals who are self-motivated, self-directed
and have the ability to create conflict-free purposes in life.

Each child is unique and enjoys learning according to their own interests.
'Life in Learning' provides opportunities to engage learners fully, to question
freely, express with liberty, learn, unlearn, discover the new, transform the old,
create and celebrate.

Cultivating the highest sense of freedom, responsibility and aesthetics

will be at the root of 'Life in Learning'. We hope by deep inquiry, sharing
experiences and empowering each-other to create a wholistic culture of ‘ever-
renewing learning processes’.

Let's begin from the beginning.

-Alok Ulfat - 1990

67
 Children of Nanhi Dunya performing at Avikal Studio directed by Claudia

Life in Learning
thoar f’k{kk ’kSyh
by Alok Ulfat

The 'Life in Learning' approach The ‘Life in learning’ process of

“thoar f’k{kk ’kSyh” is intended to be teaching, learning and unlearning provides a
a universal educational process of wide range of interdisciplinary, community-
developing the right relationship with based, childhood-centred activities to gain
oneself, things, beings, community and practical knowledge and skills as well as
the environment. The ‘intercultural the ability to engage with life to the fullest.
education for diversity and Earth- By strengthening physical capacities,
Fellowship’ will offer a new perspective fulfilling emotional, intellectual and
and help in the development of imaginative, spiritual needs, it will enhance the child’s
sensible, resourceful and positively unlimited creative potential. Engaged
engaged individuals. creative practices with natural rhythms will
help the child to connect with the source
By freeing the individual from
within and to relate to the natural world.
all possible limitations, it proposes to
develop clarity, heightened common sense, The LIL approach acknowledges
confidence and a high sense of dignity. the individuality of each child and does not

68
enforce a single method of teaching for all with mud, gardening and cooking,
children. ‘Life in Learning’ recognizes that learning about yogic and wholistic
each child has vast hidden energies and sciences and alternative technologies etc.
constantly evolving faculties. It encourages ‘Life in Learning’ works through
the individual to discover through various branches of art to encourage
intuition, common sense and natural independent thinking, multi-dimensional
learning processes without being bound interpretation, encourages people to express
by prescribed curricula. The curriculum themselves freely and to take responsibility
is used as an indication only and has room of the Self and the enviroment.
for improvisations. LIL will encourage
Art awakens intuition and sense for
children to add to the curriculum.
aesthetics. It develops eyes for inner and
The activities of ‘Life in Learning’ outer space, colour and form. It enables
will involve the whole child. Along with us to see the invisible. It can strengthen
essential subjects it will strengthen various the sense for freedom, the capacity to
faculties such as reverence for nature, transform and the courage to bring social
self-initiative, development of intuitive change. Stories are food for the soul.
awareness, a strong sense of perception, Art and music are healers.
creative visioning, compassionate social
‘Life in Learning’ is kindled by many
qualities, respecting local resources
mantras including the Rig Veda mantr -
and material, developing manual
vkuks Hkæk% Øroks ;arq fo’or% which means
capacities, working with deep ecology,
‘Let noble thoughts come to us from all
understanding soil and soul, building

69
directions’. This spirit inspires continuous Alok Ulfat has an MA in English literature,
renewal of the content and encourages from India. ‘Teacher Training’ and ‘Speech
learning from the future. and Drama’ from Emerson College England,
based on the principles of Dr. Rudolf Steiner. He
‘Life in Learning’ will develop
has served at Theatre in Education Company,
processes to enhance social capacities,
National School of Drama, New Delhi, India
develop the art of relationship and
community building through play. Various (renowned government institution researching
branches of life will work in unison to and training in Cultural and Performing Arts
create a wholistic social structure for the education), and Film and Television Institute of
school community. India, Pune (renowned institution for training
in Literary and Performing Arts for Cinema).
The open-ended process of ‘Life
For over three decades, Alok’s unique community
in Learning’ is being developed from
based psycho-spiritual approach to the artistic
observation of the society, 'classroom beyond
development of individuals took him to teach
walls' and workshop experiences, parents'
in various esteemed schools, universities, and
and teachers' observations, contemporary
discoveries around the world, references centres for further learning including Michael
from ancient Indian philosophies and Hall School, Emerson College UK, Right Livelihood
Nanhi Dunya’s own practices in the field of Summer School at Chulalongkorn University
education, social work, human development Bangkok, Solvik Skolan Sweden and many more
and environmental education. schools in Europe, Canada, South east Asia and
India. He has served for development projects of
'Life in Learning' experiments respond
YMCA and Initiatives in the slums for over two
to contemporary questions and this keeps
decades.
the process alive and evolving. Nanhi Dunya
schools face economic challenges and difficult He presents talks on Indian culture,
social circumstances. The school community education, 'Diversity and Earth-Fellowship'. He
learns to improvise and transforms has been instrumental in creating opportunities
these challenges to possibilities. New for individuals to study abroad, volunteer
relationships and learning processes emerge. placement and hosting theatre groups and
artists from abroad in India.
It is visible that when ‘Life in
Learning’, will fully blossom it will give new Individuals interested in the approach
impetus, character and direction to the of 'Life in Learning' can join us by
Nanhi Dunya centres. volunteering on academic level,
‘Life in Learning’ approach to education, creating resources, ideas and flexible
is perceived and is being developed by Alok lesson plans and teaching in Nanhi
Ulfat and his team of committed friends. Dunya schools.
Contact- [email protected]

70
 Rainbow Bridge
Nanhi Dunya and Rudolf Steiner
In 1969 Ulfat ji invited Professor Van
Bemmelen and his wonderful team to Nanhi
Dunya to conduct the first teacher training
course based on the methods of Dr Rudolf
Steiner for a special group of students from
India. This opened new horizons for Nanhi
Dunya movement. Later in 1972, Smt Sadhana
Ulfat went to study at Emerson College,
followed by Smt Kiran Goyal in the year
1989. Similarly, over the last 60 years many
Anthroposophists, students and teachers
Dr Rudolf Steiner born in 1861 from Waldorf schools from all over the world

N
anhi Dunya was introduced have visited and volunteered at Nanhi Dunya
to Waldorf education by Schools.
Major T Ramachandran, a Through this friendship the Waldorf
pupil of Gandhi ji who travelled extensively fraternity has developed a great connection
around the world giving lectures on with Nanhi Dunya community. Among
Bhagawat Geeta. In 1967 Ulfat ji went many teachers and Anthroposophists who
to Emerson College in England to study have visited Nanhi Dunya were Francis and
Anthroposophy, where he learnt about Elizabeth Edmunds - founders of Emerson
Rudolf Steiner's teaching methods. College, Prof D J Van Bemmelen - founder of
Den Hague Waldorf school in the Netherlands,
Arne Klingborg co-founder Rudolf Steiner
Seminar, Christine Hebert, Margaret Shillan,
Jennifer Kenyon, John B Thomson, Nana
Goebel, Ivar and Johanna Heckscher - founders
of many initiatives, Erick Norline - founder of
Slava theatre, Danielle Gaillemin, Hans van
Willanswaard, Richard Ramsbotham, Ong
Kungwai, Anselma Remmers, Svenja Ermrich,
Michael Melchior, Halena Kringe, Jos Van
Hall, Mary Rijckenburg, Michael Damien,
Dilnawaz Bana, Aban Bana, and the list is
fabulously long.
Major T Ramachandran

71
 Nanhi Dunya is inspired by Steiner relationships for the teacher-training section of
education. For over five decades it has also been Goetheanum. Alok has worked at the Brighton
instrumental in creating strong grounds for the Waldorf School, Michael Hall School UK, Solvik
Waldorf movement to flourish in India. It was Skolan in Sweden and various centres across
the Nanhi Dunya care group which became the Europe.
India Care-Group later on and initiated many
He has also conducted several
Waldorf schools in India. The Nanhi Dunya
workshops in Malaysia; Nania Waldorf Kinder
Care-Group was an outcome of Nanhi Dunya's
Garden, kindergarten teacher-training course
friendship with the Waldorf movement over
from various Malaysian Waldorf schools,
many decades.
workshop for teachers of Penang Waldorf
Alok Ulfat has been representing school. He continues to be Nanhi Dunya's
Nanhi Dunya at various Waldorf platforms. ambassador, linking it with schools and
He completed courses in Teacher Training and communities around the world.
Speech & Drama in 1989 at Emerson College,
With 75 years of Nanhi Dunya, 100
travelled many times to Waldorf schools in
years of Waldorf education and Lekh Raj
England, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark,
Ulfat’s 100th anniversary we celebrate our
Sweden observing initiatives, giving talks and
wonderful relationship. May the Rainbow
classes. He also gave workshops to volunteers
Bridge give way to friends from all over the
at Parzival School in Karlsruhe, Germany
planet to meet and celebrate life.
and talks on Indian education and east-west

1st Teacher Training course given by Prof D J Van Bemmelen and his collegues

72
 Nanhi Dunya & Emerson College

Building rainbow bridges

between people, communities
and continents. The colourful
bridges give paths of hope and
joy. There is a mysterious sense
of oneness in diversity.
- Lekh Raj Ulfat

E
merson College was attended by was also visited by John B Thomson, Margaret
Prof Ulfat in 1967- 68, Sadhana Shillan, Annie Blampied, Richard Ramsbotham,
Ulfat in 1972-73, Alok Ulfat from and supported by Ted Roberts, Margli and Paul
1986 to 1989, Kiran Goyal in 1988-89. Mathews, Alfhild and John Wilkes, Thomas
and Funmi Wilkes, Rachel and Peter Horsefall,
Emerson College was founded by
Angela and Georg Locher, Michael and Roswitha
Francis Edmunds in 1962 as an education
Spence and many more.
centre for young adults. He felt that
people were seeking a more wholistic Sameer Mohan, Ajay Singh and Seema
way of expressing themselves, creatively, Maini from India are some of the students
intellectually and spiritually, free from who went to Emerson through Nanhi Dunya's
doctrine or convention. Situated on Pixton connection, and are now working in various
Hill, Forest Row in East Sussex, UK, it fields in India and USA.
was named after Ralph Waldo Emerson,
Alok Ulfat, being an ex-student of
American poet and transcendentalist.
Emerson has given talks on many occasions
For the past 60 years there has been an
at the College on educational practices in
international community of students,
India. He has also conducted a workshop for
teachers, and researchers living and studying
the students of Teacher Training course on
on the site inspired by the philosophy and
intuitive movement, theatre and exercises
teachings of Dr. Rudolf Steiner.
to strengthen the development of the
The founders of Emerson College, senses of the children at different stages of
Mrs Elizabeth and Mr. Francis Edmunds visited development. The relationship between
Nanhi Dunya in the year 1971. Nanhi Dunya Emerson and Nanhi Dunya continues to this day.

73
Ulfat ji performing at Emerson - 1967 Alok Ulfat working with Teacher-Training students - 2005

Class of '67 at Pixton House

Student reunion at Emerson College

74
 Nanhi Dunya & Michael Hall School

Performing with puppets of 'Taming of the Shrew' made by upper school children with Alok Ulfat

N
anhi Dunya has been connected Michael Hall was founded in the year 1925.
to Michael Hall School since 1967. It is an independent Steiner Waldorf school on
Prof Ulfat ji, Sadhana Ulfat ji, Kiran the edge of Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. Here
Goyal ji, Alok Ulfat ji and Ajay Singh ji had the students enjoy a creative educational experience in
opportunity to participate in the school activities. a unique setting. The School supports the growth of
Many children and teachers from the Michael Hall the child into a free thinking adult who can act with
school have also volunteered at Nanhi Dunya Schools imagination, rigour and a sense of purpose in the
in India. modern world.

In over fifty years of friendship of Michael Alok Ulfat recalls "It is a wonderful school
Hall and Nanhi Dunya, many compassionate people and I had a chance to attend Margaret Shillan's
played a remarkable role to keep the friendship class in 1972-73. I am surprised that I remember
growing and building bridges of warmth and creative everything about the year so vividly. The school
exchanges. did not have so many buildings then but had
everything we needed. I enjoyed how colours,
Mr Francis and Elizabeth Edmunds,
singing and playing were the means to teach all
Mr François and Madame Daniele Gaillemin, Ms.
the subjects. And this is why that year made such a
Margaret Shillan, Mrs. Diana Westlake, Mr Paul King,
deep impression on me. In the late 80s during my
Mr Eric Charles Byford, Ms. Virginia Westlake
teacher-training years, I had a chance to observe
are to name a few who built a strong friendship with
the classes and participated in the life of the school
Nanhi Dunya.

75
over three years. I also volunteered to work at the
Broadstone Hostel for a year. That year we did
gardening, cleaning, creating plays, supervising
homework, making festivals, storytelling and,
building a hut with the children. It was a fully
engaging year. I also learnt from art classes at the
school followed by my many visits to assist and act
in Madame Daniele Gaillimin's play productions; If
you are Glad I will be Frank, Conference of the Birds,
Taming of the Shrew and The Little Prince. Assisting
Madame Daniele I also went to Portugal with the
upper school students conducting many activities
on puppets, theatre, solar cooking and building with
local natural material"

Kiran Goyal ji, Satvika ji and Vijay Goyal ji

also visited Michael hall to stage Ramayan with
the school children. A month long event included
learning traditional dances, Indian culture, songs Walking in Forest Row with a puppet made by
and Indian cooking. Michael Hall upper school children with Alok and
Shruti Ulfat

This long friendship has created

richness of heart and many wonderful
cultural exchanges between the
children of England and India. May this
wonderful relationship with Steiner
schools continue to flower.

Preparing Ramayan with Kiran Goyal ji

Daniele Gaillemin with Nanhi Dunya children, India The Ramayan cast and crew at MH

76
 ‘Soham’ - You are therefore I am - 1952

Timeless pictures of the past performances - Artistic communication

77
 Nanhi Dunya Rangshala

T
he RANGSHALA - Home
of Colour encompassing
NATYASHALA, Home of Drama
and NRITYASHALA, Home of Dance, was born
as a result of the recognition of creative needs.
Founded by Alok Ulfat and Kiran U. Goyal in the
summer of ‘87 is an extended branch of Nanhi
Dunya ‘The international Movement for Children
and their Friends’.

Nanhi Dunya Rangshala is also

associated with Art festivals in India and
abroad. It has staged many wonderful plays
in the past, which have been well acclaimed.
Mati - Daniel - Moving on
Rangshala has staged parts of Ramayan in
England, Holland and Sweden. Its artists have
(International Cultural Exchange Project),
participated in festivals in Poland and Ukraine.
Greenwave Festival, Youth beyond Boundaries
The Rangshala nurtures artistic abilities Expedition, International Circus Ensemble, Art
of children to encourage dynamism as opposed Exhibitions, Painting Extravaganzas, Musical
to passive learning. Ballets and Plays, winter and summer camps.

Children are welcome to engage in the The play Prithvi written and
areas of drama, music, painting, dance, creative directed by Alok Ulfat was highly
writing, puppetry, experiments with masks, appreciated at the Bharat Rang Mahotsav
objects, images, clay modelling, computer held at the National School of Drama
designing, new concepts, improvising with under the aegis of the Ministry of Culture.
mime and intuitive movement, Yog and martial
Nanhi Dunya regularly invites
arts, unconventional music improvisations
ex-students of National School of Drama,
and experiments with handicrafts and much
Theatre in Education Company, Bhartendu
more.
Natya Academy, Lucknow, Madhya Pradesh
Over the years, the Rangshala has School of Drama and many international
gone from success to success, justifying the companies to conduct theatre, clowning and
purpose for its formation. Its activities have dance activities with Nanhi Dunya Community.
diversified and the Rangshala has presented
Kissa-e-Television, Snow-white
Children’s Festivals, Rainbow Festivals
and the Seven Dwarfs, Baba Ka Gaon Baba

78
First Mother Christmas - Nativity play

Paani Aayaa Gaon Mein play - a play in hindustani Popo and the Frog King

79
ka Sapna, David and the Monster, Dr Jhatka
(Mime) & Andher Nagari Chaupat Raja, Pariyon Ke
Desh Mein, Geedarhon Ka Raja, Rakhi Ki Maryada,
The Shoe maker (mime), Veer Shivaji,
Paani Aayaa Gaon Mein, Caucasian Chalk Circle,
Charandas Chor, Shakuntalam, stories from Grimm’s
Fairy Tales, Panchtantra, Jatak Tales, and many more
wonderful productions have been staged.

Future Projects
Baal Rangshala actors
With the expansion of the activities in the
areas of children and youth theatre it is necessary to
create an independent, self-sustaining Nanhi Dunya
repertory company with the aim of developing the
talents of children and youth by learning Indian and
international art forms. For this endeavour we shall be
approaching state and central government ministry
and agencies.

Local and international artists, directors and

cultural workers are invited on a regular basis in order
to advance the initiative.

Nanhi Dunya is associated with over 20

art, cultural, educational, environmental initiatives
across the globe. These initiatives have been a
constant source of inspiration for Nanhi Dunya
Movement. Rang Himalaya is an outcome of these
collaborations.
Preparing eagle backdrop for a play with Wendla

Rupesh Tillu with Adya Clowns can see The vegetarian Lion Fenja

80
81

Associations
RANG HIMALAYA FESTIVAL
an Intercultural festival to celebrate Diversity & Earth-Fellowship

Kutumbakam’, Rang Himalaya envisages

a world with softer boundaries
(if boundaries are at all a must). To co-
exist there is a need for interdependence,
self-discipline and compassion. These are
the seeds of Rang Himalaya. Rang means
color, symbolizing vibrancy, diversity and
joy. The festival is conceived in Dehradun
at the foothills of the Himalaya from where
it inherited its name Rang Himalaya. Rang
Himalaya is an independent entity and has

R
its roots in the Nanhi Dunya Movement.
ang Himalaya, is the
‘Intercultural festival to From the early 1950s, the Ulfat
celebrate Diversity and family along with the community of Nanhi
Earth-Fellowship’. It aims to recognize Dunya held small inter-faith gatherings
the uniqueness in all living beings and called ‘Sarvadharm Prarthana’. This event
strengthen intercultural relationships. grew into what is celebrated as Rang
Rang Himalaya was conceived by Alok Ulfat Himalaya today.
and co-founded by Satvika Goyal in the year
2013 in Dehradun. The festival is created In present times ’Sarvadharm
with the support of Nanhi Dunya ‘The Prarthana’ (inter-faith prayer meetings) is a
International (inter-cultural) Movement special event of the Rang Himalaya Festival.
for Children & their Friends’ and Avikal Individuals from different religious groups
‘Initiative for Life and Active Learning’. come together and share prayers from their
own belief while respecting the others’
The festival empowers youth,
expression of faith.
children and others by engaging them in
creative endeavours and sparks cultural Other events of the festival include:
and environmental awareness. It is a festival
• Prayers for Diversity (Sarvadharm Prarthana)
of inclusiveness and transformation. Every • Dance for Diversity
year this festival brings together around • Drums for Diversity
3000 participants who experience the joy • Drama for Diversity
• Draw for Diversity
of being different and unique.
• Design for Diversity
• Discourse for Diversity
The festival is committed towards
• Dine for Diversity
building an inclusive yet diverse • Diversity in Motion
Earth family. Derived from ‘Vasudev • Beyond Frames
 If we can sing together,
we can change together

82
 Hon. Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat, 8th CM of UK with Alok & Satvika

Shri TRIVENDRA SINGH RAWAT UTTARAKHAND SECRETARIAT

DEHRADUN - 248001
(O) 0135 2755177, 01352650433

India, owing to its unique philosophical and spiritual characteristics is a source

of inspiration for the world for centuries. It is this unique combination that makes Mark
Twain describe India as the cradle of human race, the birthplace of human speech, the
mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grand mother of tradition.
The spirit of Indianness famously known as Bharatiyata – is about celebrating all that
India stands for and has the universal nature.

Rang Himalaya - The Intercultural Festival for Diversity and Earth-Fellowship is a

unique event and embodies the inclusive spirit of India to live and celebrate its beauty.

I am pleased to know that Rang Himalaya festival is publishing a souvenir to

celebrate the occasion. During its Journey of the last seven years Rang Himalaya has
reached children youth and elders of varied backgrounds in the region and region.

I wish Rang Himalaya festival organisers, Nanhi Dunya Rangshala, Avikal

‘Initiative for Life and Active Learning’ all the best for their efforts to bring harmony
among the people by celebrating the spirit of India. May this festival grow further and
attract wider participation in the future.

Trivendra Singh Rawat

Chief Minister of Uttarakhand

83
 84

They also get an opportunity to do physical

activities, like building, cleaning, restoring,
decoration, hiking, white water rafting,
swimming, climbing, cycling and much more.

The Yatra strengthens observation,

a sense of responsibility, otherness, team
and initiative building with renewed hope.
By meetings with inspiring individuals and
Rang Yatra through remarkable external and inward

A
journey one develops new perspectives.
vikal Rang Yatra was
Substantial changes begin to occur within
born in the year 1991 out
the participants.
of the concern that the
youth needs to get deeper experience of the
Rang Manthan
alternative practices and rural life at the

R
grassroot level. Rang Yatra now has become ang Manthan (churning of
an integral part of the Rang Himalaya colours) is an event that
Festival. The pilgrimage culture has existed brings people of different
in India for many millennia, inspired us to age groups from diverse backgrounds to
create Rang Yatra (pilgrimage of colors live together, communicate, share common
which for us means shared journey within concerns and learn about many alternative
while engaging with the world outside). practices that bring ecological balance
It engages participants in a transformational to the planet and celebrate life. They
process through questioning and being also engage in reflective walks, painting,
together in nature and alternative singing, daily manual work, community
communities. cooking and eating together.

During Rang Yatra the young Here, the participants learn about
people visit places of inspiration, temples, the various cultures, the spirit of India and
organic farms and communities engaged in about world leaders who have dedicated
wholistic living. Participants get a chance their lives to deep ecology, organic
to visit local markets, centres for the elderly agriculture, sustainable architecture,
and for individulas with special needs inclusiveness, transdisciplinary learning,
and to work for different initiatives. Yog, community living, social sciences and
meditation, artistic activities, painting, alternative economics.
crafts, theatre, filming, music performances,
Rang Himalaya
festivals, processions for a cause, writing Email: [email protected]
for news publications and intellectual Ph: 0091 95572 80116

exchanges go hand in hand in the yatra.

Rang Himalaya
Facebook
85

Avikal
‘Initiative for Life & Active Learning’

A
vikal 'Initiative for life Over three decades, Avikal has
and Active Learning’ was been successfully creating an independent
founded in the year 1990 by approach to encourage individuals to
Alok Ulfat. It was born from his soul searching, explore their unlimited potential. Avikal’s
travelling, deep observation of life and active wide range of inter-connected activities
participation in various cultures of the world. provide immersive opportunities for
individuals to discover their unlimited
Avikal Initiative works in the field
possibilities.
of community development, wholistic
education, performing and associated Avikal works in close association
arts, film and music production, human with Nanhi Dunya to co-create artistic
development and ecology. Avikal is connected activities. Avikal also does research
with independent researchers, seekers and and development work for the
communities across the world. Nanhi Dunya movement.

Ever inspiring Ritu's team Clowns love children love clowns

Dulaari Dhamaal team Delhi

 86

Avikal conducts workshops on requirements and may be designed to last

theatre, art, environment and active from a few hours to a few weeks or more.
learning for all age groups. The short
Avikal has worked for the Film and
and long term innovative workshops are
created to develop self-confidence, self- Television Institute of India; Theatre
motivation and self-awareness through in Education Company - National
innovative activities. These workshops School of Drama; Emerson College,
are created also with the hope of raising Theatre Act, Clowns without Borders;
questions that are relevant for life of the Bonn International School; Germany;
individual and community. Chulalongkorn University, Thailand;
Avikal provides services for: Right Livelihood Summer School;
Penang Waldorf School- Malaysia;
• School children
• Teacher training Cortona Week, Italy; Michael Hall School,
• Youth groups England; Ligueil Village Secondary
• Theatre groups School; Montifray College France; Rang
• Puppet theatre group
Himalaya Festival and more.
• Actors aspiring to work
for Cinema
• Aspiring writers and directors To book our workshops:
• Low income groups Call 0091 98214 17495
• Rural and tribal communities
• Otherly abled children and adults
• Corporate and other interest groups

Workshops and activities are Alok Ulfat Centre for

designed for the participants as per their Performing Arts YouTube

Working in Germany at Bonn International School

87

'Acting for Life' Workshops

We are one in silence, Thailand Kindergarten teacher-training, Malaysia

Kasiga school workshop, Dehradun Workshop at Banjara dance studio, Delhi

Right Livelihood Summer School, Bangkok University, Thailand Kya Yaar?

Workshop, Little Raina studio, Mumbai Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

 88

Clowns, Mumbai Avikal Rang Mandal at Bharat Rang Mahotsav, Delhi

Charandas Chor at Kasiga School, Dehradun

Prithvi - play 'the song of the known and the unknown'

Creative workshops, Malaysia

89

Brave Festival
- by Satvika Goyal

B
rave International Festival
Poland and Brave Kids
were founded by Grzegorz
Bral. Grzegorz is also the director of Song
of the Goat Theatre. Brave has developed
a strong bond with Nanhi Dunya
Movement. Bral is a world renowned
actor, director, teacher and a creative
initiate. He has visited Nanhi Dunya in
Dehradun, India.

Nanhi Dunya has made a strong

connection with Brave Kids festival that brings
children together from all over the world in
an atmosphere of friendship and respect for
each other’s cultures. The festival takes the
children through artistic experiences and
provides them with tools to help realize their
dreams. This stage encourages young people
from underprivileged backgrounds and is
created with the help of mentors and
activists. Brave Kids also hopes to spark
discussions to help address the inequalities
facing children around the world. Ashu
Satvika Goyal is a social activist, an
Artistic Director of Nanhi Dunya Cultural Grzegorz Bral with Nanhi Dunya Children

Initiatives and Co-founder of Rang Himalaya

Festival. She has many new plans to further
the relationship with Brave Festival.

Nanhi Dunya shares common

aims with Brave Kids to nurture cross-
cultural understanding amongst the
next generation by connecting young
individuals from different cultures
through shared creative projects.
 MINDFUL HEARTFUL COLOURFUL

Intercultural World From ND village school to Brave Festival

Sing & play together to change Satvika Goyal with Brave future

Bright Nanhi Dunya at Brave Festival, Poland

 Smt Sadhana Ulfat
An introduction – Tessa Abramovitz

Upright in stature, slender and

strong, she was often seen striding along,
dressed in a cotton saree, laughing and
sharing. Her eyes had the depth of the
ocean. Inspired by the sea, she often said
"Be like the ocean. One may add or take away
gallons of water from the ocean, it remains
unchanged, vast and bountiful. Be vast and
generous” she would say.

Born on the 15th of April 1925 in

the family of seven sisters and a brother,
in Kasur, now in Pakistan. Her education
began at a local school. She obtained her
higher education at the Kanya Maha-
Vidyalaya in Jalandhar and in Dehradun.
She was an active student and loved sports.

1947 saw the partition of a

wonderful Bharat into India and
Sadhana Maa
Pakistan. Many families got displaced
and many managed to come to Dehradun.
Nanhi Dunya community reached

S
adhana Ulfat ji, was a out with all its capacity to serve the
courageous woman who gave vulnerable families. As a schoolgirl she
up her possessions for those in travelled alone from Dehradun to the
need - women, children, the otherly abled, then troubled Pakistan in search of her
and the poor. A spirited and upright woman, sister, to escort her home amidst severe
dedicated to the path of social upliftment violence, risking her own life. This
from the age of fourteen, Sadhana Maa also quality of fearlessness and commitment
known as Badi Didi was a soft-spoken, to doing what needs to be done, even
warm, and dignified person, a woman with a against strong conventions, shows clearly
vision, with hope, and also the one who cared. through the life of Sadhana Maa.

91
 Sadhana ji - Train of thoughts

Sadhana Ji, identifying with the and prepared themselves to lead fulfilling
vision of Prof. Ulfat began her lifelong lives. Working with women became a
journey to work for the welfare of people strong impulse in Nanhi Dunya and resulted
and never looked back. She began in the in many projects with and for women: adult
early 50s without pre-conceived notions education, teacher training, mother and
about social work or education but she child health care centres, crèches for the
knew that she wanted to serve the needs of children of working women etc.
the communities relentlessly.
A marriage arranged into a
In one instance when she was coming wealthy and comfort driven family for
home, Sadhana ji heard a woman crying for Sadhana ji meant that her work with Nanhi
help, she found the woman locked up in a Dunya would end. It was impossible to see
room, kept there by her family. She broke Nanhi Dunya without her. Realising her
through the wall and helped her to escape. worth, her indispensable contribution, the
She took her home and, in this way, a Rescue school trustees just in time approached
Home for women was started. Here they her father to request for her wedding with
lived and discovered their own potential Ulfat ji.

92
 She found it highly satisfying to
work with simple rural folk. Spending
considerable time serving the poorest as
it gave her deep sense of purpose. Recent
hurried urbanization of the rural areas
disturbed her; as for her the villages were
the true essence of India.

In 1972, she had the opportunity to

study at Emerson College and complete her
teacher training course. She was joined by
Alok, her son, who attended the Michael
Hall School. She later travelled through
Europe along with Alok observing Steiner
and other schools. On coming again to
India, she began working at Nanhi Dunya
from new findings and rich experiences in
Sadhana Maa - Ulfat ji
Europe. She developed many new initiatives
and encouraged aspiring young people to
Her parents asked for her wish. She come forward and work for community
happily chose to marry Lekh Raj Ulfat ji development, social work and education.
and stayed with Nanhi Dunya till her last
She strongly felt that children
breath. Together they were complete and,
need highly creative teachers.
in this wholeness, the inspiration of the two
While attending a conference on
began to reach out. They complimented
alternative education at Rajiv Gandhi
each other and the vision to serve 'self-fully'
Foundation, she most profoundly
(selflessly) became a reality. By 'self-fully'
said in a single line “Plans to change
she meant, to work with one's total being
education is a great idea. But where
with full commitment.
are the real teachers?” She worked
With her guidance and service, Nanhi and trained teachers during the last
Dunya has grown into a network of nursery thirty years of her life and developed
and junior high schools, welfare centres, many innovative ways of learning.
schools for the abled, otherly abled and for
She developed social workers
hearing impaired, that run many teacher
and teacher training courses for working
training activities. Her devotion, ways
women, home-makers, condensed courses
of working and spirit to relate with each
for older women and nursery teacher-
individual of the community were highly
training for aspiring Baal Badi teachers.
valued by social welfare workers in India
and abroad.

93
 She would often say “Academic to her vision. To celebrate life, in all
degrees don’t essentially make great teachers. its hues and all its beauty and pain,
The best teachers are those who are curious was what she often talked about. Her
and remain students forever. A teacher knows intense love for children, women, and youth
how to breathe and has great humour” has created eternal memory in the hearts
of many. Her warmth and dignity touched a
She felt “small children are
large number of lives worldwide.
naturally curious, fearless and wish to
move and touch everything with their
limbs. We must listen to children’s hearts.
Their breathing tells us everything about
them. Their eyes can lead us to their
soul. If you are still and can wait, you
may really experience these wonderful
beings. Play with them and make friends.
Schooling in conventional sense is a
secondary concern”

Sadhana ji also wrote songs,

stories and poetry for children. Pakshiyon
ke Raja - if{k;ksa ds jktk, Nanhe Munno
Ke Geet - uUgsa eqUuksa ds xhr, Aao Ghar
Banayein - vkvks ?kj cuk,¡] Jhansi Ki Rani -
>k¡lh dh jkuh, are some of her known works.
She worked uncompromisingly to uplift the
lives of women and also created informal Sadhana Maa, Kiran ji, Alok ji And Ashu

ways of training the teachers.

She was deeply immersed in
Sadhana Ulfat was also actively spiritual life. She was an early riser and all
involved since 1950s with initiatives days were same for her and time was eternal.
like The Crime Prevention Society of She was always ready for the unexpected.
India, Bharat Sevak Samaj, Pre-Primary She felt "I am fortunate to be born on the
education, education for the children in need spiritual land of Bharat and Maa Saraswati.
of special care, The Indian Council for Child It frees me from all bondings and connects me
Welfare, All India Federation of Educational with the cosmos. I sit in silence to reflect the
Associations and The National Institute of universe within and offer my humble findings
Public Cooperation and Child Development. to my Nanhi Dunya community. Atma Vidya
(knowledge of the true Self) is the highest
Sadhana Maa believed “life
form of realisation and we must gently work
is an ongoing celebration” - Utsav
towards it."
- mRlo. This principle was integral

94
 She felt that India has a big Amidst Vedic chants, gongs, bells, flowers,
responsibility to look after its immediate herbs, incense, and tears, Alok gave flame
neighbours. Being an experienced mother to her pyre.
she felt compassionate for all.

Once Alok, her son asked Sadhana

Maa out of curiosity. “How long would you
live” and she smiled and said, “around two
years”. None of us believed this but this is
what happened.

Two years later she knew her

mission was accomplished and the time
had come to move on... to the life beyond.
She had chosen a Sunday. It was Ekadashi,
a peaceful phase in the lunar journey,
Ever serene Sadhana Maa
according to Hindu calender. She was not
alone, she was surrounded by her loved
"A day later, the ashes were taken
ones, as she laid on the bed, gently drifting
to Haridwar. We searched for a quiet place
away. Kiran Didi lifted the Diya (earthen
away from the busy ghats along the banks
oil lamp) in front of her eyes and with
of the eternal Ganga River to perform the
the glowing light, she closed her eyes
sacred immersion. We crossed the river.
forever. Smt Harbans Sadhana Ulfat left
There were no temples there but immense
her physical body on November 25th, 2001,
peace. Nature is sacred. The river calmly
at 3:07 pm, to join in the cosmic celebration.
flowed at the banks of the forest with
That night was filled by prayers and silence.
thousands of migratory birds. The Ganga
The next morning, she was carried so still, yet rushing below, reflected the mist,
out in the open, dressed in a beautiful which filled the air in the early morning sun.
saree. Sorrowing friends, teachers, family, I, in the presence of his Guru Om ji gently
and children gathered to bid her the last immersed Maa’s ashes into the river. The
farewell. Under the tall trees, prayers from elements drifted swiftly, spiralling away"
different religions were offered. Children expresses Alok ji.
adorned her body with flowers, chanting
On the 13th day, at the Nanhi Dunya
‘Happy-Happy, Bacchey-Bacchey’, a chorus
motherhouse, a festival was created in her
devised for children by Ulfat ji.
memory. Many friends, teachers, parents,
The gathering at the cremation and children gathered to share their
grounds included women and children. memories of her. A ‘pooja’ prayer ceremony,

95
was held in the morning. Followed by a
‘Priti Bhoj’ a meal of harmony for the entire
community, where the children dressed in
white served the food. Children also drew
pictures and wrote letters with prayers for
Sadhana ma, just like Tibetan prayer flags.

Sadhana maa had enough time to

pass on her responsibilities to the chosen
members of the community. Nanhi Dunya
was in good hands, Kiran Ulfat Goyal would
be the new Chief Promoter & Executive
and will work with the trustees to take the
movement forward with renewed energy
and commitment. Alok Ulfat took the
responsibility to build upon the spirit of
Nanhi Dunya and maintain its sacredness.
Sadhana ma highly respected his authentic
vision and trusted his plans for Nanhi
Dunya, and wished he would take Nanhi
Dunya to the children of the world. Alok
ji, as the Chief Education Coordinator is
engaged to give new directions to its future
development.

Sadhana Ma is not physically present

with us today but her dreams, vision and
wishes to serve humanity continue to
inspire us all. May we continue to celebrate
Jeevan Utsav (festival for life).

Be calm, be still, stay in silence,

Go further, go deeper.
Within you lies the fullness of
thousand festivals.
- Sadhana Maa

Sadhana Maa and Ashu Satvika

96
 Shri Lekh Raj Ulfat
Atul Chatterjee, Asha Lata Srivastav, Ajay Singh, Alok Ulfat

Ulfat ji

B
orn in 1920, at the kurta-pyjama and black achkan, at times
confluence of two rivers beyond space and time, Ulfat ji exemplified
in the township of Dumeli, a strong character. He had a rich voice, was
now in Pakistan, Ulfat Ji’s education outspoken and immensely alive with joy and
began at home and in a local school. laughter as he always said, "Keep the child
He obtained his higher education in alive in you."
Rawalpindi and at Lahore University. As a
Remembered by close associates
young man, he was of an enquiring nature
as an experimentalist, fearless and a
and curious about everything around him.
fascinating storyteller, his imagination
He had a strong sense of independence and
was vivid, and memory sharp, he would
relied only upon himself.
describe events and people of long ago
Of upright stature, long arms, with extraordinary clarity. Even claiming
thoughtful eyes, often dressed in white to know his previous incarnation.

97
 He was spontaneous in action had to escape to Dehradun before India’s
with a generous heart and had a firm independence. In the year 1942, he came
belief in unorthodox cultural values. He and made his place in the Doon Valley. In
encouraged the spirit of experiment and his early days, he worked for Manav Bharti
discovery. In the quest for freedom, he School, which also ran a teacher training
strongly felt - program. He polished his teaching
skills with Dr D.P. Pandey, who was a
"We cannot ride our chariots student of Sri Rabindranath Thakur
on borrowed golden wheels. and had met Gandhi Ji, Honourable
It is better to find the right Presidents of India Dr Rajendra Prasad
relationships than imitate." and Dr Radhakrishnan.

'Cooperation and NOT competition'

A conscientious student, he and 'People before Profit' were his
developed varied interests; ayurvedic mantras for schools. He was not happy
and homoeopathic medicine, philosophy, with the popular English medium
history and literature, especially poetry education initiated by the colonial and
among others. He was a linguist with missionary school systems of those days.
mastery over five languages. As early He felt that it did not teach conscious
as in his tenth grade, he added a poetic reasoning and, in most cases, created
surname to himself- ‘Ulfat’ giving it, its clerks and not masters of one’s own
own meaning - ‘Love in action. destiny. He strongly felt that these
imported philosophies disconnected
Ulfat ji believed in Universal
the individuals from their indigenous
Ideas, and religion for him was a
roots and values. He had observed
service to the universe and its families.
that Bharatiya cultural education
Minerals, plants, animals and humans
was rooted in the local life and had a
for him were all part of a cosmic family.
universal spirit.
He felt that religion was just a very small
part of life and its purpose is to help He wanted to encourage nature
life to unite on earth and neither more based learning (natural intuitive
nor less. He used to say ‘Jo dhaaran learning) processes. After years of
kartaa hai wohi dharm hai’ that which his engagement with education, he
holds together and causes universal realised that Urban driven education
harmony is Dharma. There are no conflicts is extravagant, competitive and
in spiritual practices. ruthless. However he encouraged
sustainable development, as it was in
While still in college he joined
harmony with indigenous traditional
the non violent freedom struggle and
practises.

98
Ulfat ji also realized - Ulfat ji's life was deeply driven
by his spiritual quest. He developed a
"Constitutional freedom is not
serious concern for the problem of juvenile
the real freedom. Real freedom can only
delinquents, which sowed the idea of an
be achieved when one discovers one’s
inclusive school. He started many special
full potential and can impart direction
activities for special needs at Nanhi Dunya
to oneself, out of free will and choices”.
centres which resulted in the formation
He gradually turned his Nanhi Dunya 'Badhir Vidyalaya' school for
revolutionary ideas into those of the deaf, a centre for those with speech and
evolutionary nature. He transformed his hearing impediments. Also a new centre for
fight for freedom into life for freedom. those in need of special care was founded,
His continuous social interactions and that received children with physical,
engaged spirituality led him to take many emotional and psychological challenges. He
responsibilities. For three decades he tirelessly questioned and explored creative
struggled with the poverty of refugees ways of learning.
from Pakistan and founded three Nanhi
Dunya welfare centres for them.

Around the same time, he got

involved with trade unions, worker groups
of tea estates of Dehradun and contributed
immensely towards labour welfare. In the
year 1944, his concerns for prisoners led
him to engage with their lives. He constantly
worked and suggested reforms in the Penal
system and ceaselessly wrote to focus Making a doll - Heart of communication
attention to their plight.
Ulfat ji taught himself to work with
Due to the cold weather of Mussoorie,
children purely through affection and
Ulfat ji started to stay longer in Dehradun.
concern, and later he trained to be a teacher.
In 1946, Ulfat ji founded ‘Nanhi Dunya’ and
His conviction was “only a person with
made it an international (Intercultural)
a parent’s heart makes a remarkable
movement for children and their friends.
teacher.” He developed a spontaneous
In 1952, he was joined by his capacity to create wonder-filled lessons,
wife Kumari Harbans Malhotra who later ideas and philosophies on daily basis. He
married to be Smt Harbans Sadhana Ulfat mostly worked with aspiring adults who
now remembered as Sadhana Ma. Together wanted to teach and had no formal training.
they strove for the expansion of activities He continuously learnt from his students
and evolution of the movement. while working in the school life. Many of

99
these enthusiasts who worked and learnt
at Nanhi Dunya schools, later with the in
training became fully equipped teachers.

Today, Nanhi Dunya is associated

with alternative educational movements
worldwide.

Ulfat ji’s friendship with the

educational movements abroad has brought
about a tremendous exchange of thought
Ulfat ji with Ivar Heckscher and Mati - Daniel
and activities. He began to find alternative
movements in the west and questioned In 1967, Prof. Ulfat went to
conventional industrial practices in Emerson college England, where with the
education. guidance of the late Francis Edmunds he
He was the source of simple ideas studied Anthroposophy that deepened his
with a mantra that- understanding in the field of creative and
curative education. He continued to travel
“The ordinary has the potential of extensively in India as well as abroad and
the extraordinary”. made friends all over the globe.
Despite the scarcity of physical Till his very last, he offered
infrastructure, he had constantly been productive ideas and contributed to fresh
pioneering various activities at the grassroot projects. Ulfat ji felt that -
level on health, environment, music, art,
culture, education, teacher training and "We must work together to create
employment possibilities within the wholistic learning processes for children
movement for the special needs to name a without compromising on indigenous
few. He created inexpensive processes of values and understanding. We must work
teaching that were effective in producing with material, spiritual and cultural
positive results. sciences to change the rigid systems
and create progressive environment.
Ulfat Ji has written songs, stories, The traditions that create conflict
poetry and edited a monthly children’s have to be revisited. The strength is in
magazine. He has also edited two weekly inclusiveness and not in isolation."
journals - ‘Nai Zindagi’ and 'Prem Dharm'
and Nanhi Dunya monthly magazine in In the 80’s he started to spend
Hindustani. a majority of his time in Delhi as he got
elected to serve 'The Indian Council

100
for Child Welfare' (ICCW). He was ‘Nehru Fellow’. However, for him offering
elected unanimously twice as the Vice encouragement to others was more important
President and later the Secretary-General than the formal recognitions for himself.
of the council. ICCW is the prestigious After he left the physical world, Nanhi Dunya
Child welfare organization that also initiated 'Ulfat Fellow' award in his memory
gives bravery awards to children on the to recognise and honour those individuals who
occasion of Republic Day of India among dedicate their lives to the welfare of children.
its many activities. Through ICCW he
was associated with the Honorable
Presidents of India - Sri Gyani Zail
Singh, Sri Shankar Dayal Sharma,
Sri Ramaswamy Venkataraman, The
Honorable Prime Ministers of India Smt
Indira Gandhi, Sri Chandrashekhar, Sri
P V Narasimha Rao, Sri Rajiv Gandhi,
Sri Vishwanath Pratap Singh, and many
other individuals responsible for the Ulfat ji, the boatman
welfare of children worldwide.

He has been honoured with numerous All his life he advocated that the
awards by various governmental and other human race couldn’t survive without a healthy
prestigious organizations for his services natural environment. He said-
towards children and social welfare. In 1989
“I would like to see Dehradun develop
he was recognized as 'Doon Ratna' and
into a well-balanced city with beautiful
greenery. It should remain the centre for
wholistic learning and nature-based living,
where people of all cultures live in perfect
harmony and are open to changing themselves
spontaneously with time".

He also felt “We must preserve

the valley. I love old markets, forests and
agricultural fields. I just hope they don’t
destroy the basmati rice fields and tea gardens.
I hope our schools and centres for further
learning become non-competitive – a valley of
Child initiating Ulfat ji wisdom with deep love for the earth and art.
With Ganga river on one side and Yamuna river

101
on the other, we are blessed to be in Dehradun. eyes and you will see”, and indeed we see
I hope Alok and Kiran will become the custodians a vision - a vision of him towering over us
of education, environment and cultural life of the like the lighthouse, guiding us at every
region.” - 1988. step as we forge ahead paving our way
through the storms and challenges of
His faith in the unknown and unseen
life, with a vow to fulfil and to do what he
was immense that kept him inspired. Ulfat ji
has left undone.
initiated 14 centres in India and presently there
are 10 centres in Dehradun running over 37
welfare activities attended by 1200 beneficiaries.
Nanhi Dunya has committed friends worldwide.
It was due to him that Nanhi Dunya was able to
connect with the rest of the world and remains
an inspiration for local initiatives. The movement
has built a strong foundation today and has a
promising future. Ulfat ji is remembered with
deep fondness by people he met and shall live
within their hearts.

In 1991, Ulfat Ji left for the spiritual

world. He would often say, “Close your

1981 England

102
 i.kZ
w rk ns nks
gs v[k.M ds tUe nkrk
gs v}Sr] gs fo/kkrk] gs lw;kZ/kkjh
l`f"V ds l`tu djus okys] rwus gekjk fuekZ.k D;ks a fd;kA
D;ks a nh rwus ges a Hkw[k] I;klk 'kjhj] Fkds gq, iSj vkSj cstku ckgs a
D;ks a fn;k Lianu djrk ân;
?kVrh c<+ rh lk¡ls vkSj fopfyr eu
dku tks lqu ugha ikrs] t qcka tks Hkk"kk es a vleFkZ
a
vkSj fnekx tks lksp ugha ikrk gS
vk¡[ksa va/kh] vkokt xw¡xh] my>s fopkjA
ijEijkvksa /keksZ a vkSj fu;eks a dks cukus okyh rkdrksa
;s D;k cuk fn;k gS gesa \
;s ekufld fodykaxrk] ;s Vw V rh bPNk 'kfä]
;s fdl pØo;qg esa Q¡lk fn;k gS gesaA
gs bZ'oj] D;k rw Hkh vlgk; fucZy vkSj Øwj gS \
tks fujarj c<+ rh çy; dks ns[k jgk gS
Vw V rs fnyksa dks] Vw V rs ioZrksa dks vkdk'k dks ns[k jgk gS
D;k rw Hkh feF;k gS] tks eks{k ds vuar ekSu esa foyhu gks dj jg x;k gS\
yxrk gS rw /keZ dh nqdkuksa es a]
xzFa kks a] rLohjks a] fdrkcks a ds cks> rys nck iM+k gS
fles aV ds eafnjks a dh uho es a fpuk iM+k gSA
;k ykmMLihdjks a dh rkjks a es a my>k iM+k gSA
;fn rw okdbZ es a gS tks rq>s ekuk gS]
eerk iw.kZ ek¡ vkSj ijekRek ls tkuk gS]
rks nsnks] dqN yEgks a ds fy, ges a iw.kZrk nsnksA
nsnks] ges a çse nsnks
nsnks] ges a lq[k nsnks
nsnks] dYiuk nsnks
nsnks] bPNk 'kfä nsnks
nsnks] ges a ÅtkZ nsnks
nsnks] gesa cy nsnks
nsnks] gesa O;ogkj nsnks
nsnks] ges a laLdkj nsnks
gesa fuLokFkZ cuk dj iw.kZrk nsnksA

i`Foh ukVd dk lgxku & vkyksd mYQr —r & 1994

103
 Honourable Board of Trustees

Nanhi Dunya community in the 50s with Mahant Indresh ji Nanhi Dunya community in the 60s

Shri Ved Prakash Jain, Shri Om Kapoor, Col. Ravindra Kumar Mehrotra (Retd) & Smt. Kiran U.
Smt. Sadhana Ulfat, Smt. Kiran U. Goyal & Shri Alok Goyal - Board of Trustee with members Vijay ji, Uma ji
& Deepa ji

Smt. Purnima, Dr. B. K. Endlay, Shri Alok Ulfat, Shri Ramesh Sharma, Shri V P Jain,
Smt. Chhaya Sharma, Smt. Kiran U Goyal, Shri Vijay Goyal

104
D I G N I T A R I E S A N D A S S O C I A T E S - PA S T & P R E S E N T

“I believe, to create a joyful world for children we all need to join our
hands, hearts and energies. If all professionals, government dignitaries,
social scientists, artists, scientists and seekers commit to the welfare of
children, we can give them a healthy environment and a bright future.”
- Lekh Raj Ulfat

with Hon. 7th President of India S Giani Zail Singh

Ulfat ji with Hon. 3rd Prime Minister Smt Indira Gandhi

with Hon. 9th President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma

Children with Hon. Smt Indira Gandhi Baba Muni with Ulfat ji

105
Hon. Ex-President Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma Hon. 8th President of India Sri R Venkataraman

Hon. 6th Prime Minister Sri Rajiv Gandhi with Pt. Lekh Raj Ulfat, then Vice President ICCW

Ulfat ji at Emerson College, England 1967 Bimla ji, Ulfat ji, Lesley, Sri Paripurnanand Verma ji

Ulfat ji at May Fair, Emerson College Ulfat ji, Bhai ji, Sri Radharaman ji

106
 with Hon. Shri Venkaiah Naidu ji, Ex-Vice President of India

Hon. Shri Trivendra Singh Rawat, 8th Chief Minister of Uttarakhand

Hon. Shri Prem Chandra Agarwal Hon. Shri Anil Baijal, Lt. Governor of Delhi

107
Hon. Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, 2nd Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and
Governor of Maharashtra

Hon. Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon. Shri Madan Kaushik,

serving Culture Minister of India Ex-Cabinet Minister of Uttarakhand

Hon. Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Hon. Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, 5th CM of Uttarakhand
Ex-Cultural Minister of India and Ex-Education Union Minister

108
 Hon. Governer of Maharashtra Shri Bhagat Singh Kaushiyari, Shri Ramesh Sippy,
Shri Satish Sharma and Smt. Rekha Bhardwaj presenting a Garhwal Post Award to
Shri Alok Ulfat for exceptional achievement in Theatre for Social Change

Hon. Shri Nityanand Swami ji, 1st Chief Minister of UK with Smt
Sadhana Ulfat, Chief Promoter Nanhi Dunya

Hon. Late Shri Prakash Pant, Ajarn Hans van Willenswaard with
Ex-Cabinet Minister Uttarakhand Sri Akbar Khan Sahib,
Ex-Borard of Trustee and Patron
109
Hon. Shri Surjeet Singh Barnala, 1st Governor of UK with the Smt Hon. Smt Margaret Alva,
Sadhana Ulfat, The Chief Promoter of Nanhi Dunya 4th Governor of UK with Smt. Kiran Goyal

Hon. Shri Sudarshan Agarwal,

2nd Governor of UK presenting
Doon Ratna Award to Shri Alok
Ulfat, Chief Education Coordinator
Nanhi Dunya, in presence of
Hon. Shri Nityanand Swami first
Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, in
2007.

The Doon Ratna Award was founded

by Dr R K Verma. Throughout his
life, he continued to encourage
individuals dedicated to nation
building. Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat was
also awarded Doon Ratna, in 1990.

110
Padma Vibhushan awardee and Ex-Member of Parliament of India, Hon. Dr Karan Singh receiving
Nanhi Dunya literature on its Golden Jubilee

Mr. Joseph Jacques Jean Chrétien Mr. Jack Wilson McConnell,

20th Prime Minister of Canada First Minister of Scotland

111
Satvika Goyal meeting Hon. Shri A P J Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India. Satvika represented
Nanvdanya India at the Earth Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Shri Abdul Kalam welcomed the
Indian delegation of young children on their arrival from the Earth Summit.

112
संत कबीर दास Sant Kabir Das
tUe 1398 lEor~ 1455 Birth 1398 Samwat 1455

iksFkh if<+ if<+ tx eqvk] iafMr Hk;k u dks;A Sant Kabir Das ji was one of the
<kbZ vk[kj çse dk] i<+s lks iafMr gks;AA most influential saints of the
15th and 16th centuries. He was
xq: xksfoUn nksÅ [kM+s] dkds ykxwa ika;A brought up in a family of weavers
near the city of Banaras. His
cfygkjh xq: vius xksfoUn fn;ks crk;AA
teachings were based on critique
of major dogmatic religious
dkadj ikFkj tksfj ds efLtn ybZ cuk;A traditions. Kabir during his life
rk pf< eqYyk ckax ns D;k cfgjk gqvk [kqnk;AA believed in the religious harmony
and became popular among all
ekyk Qs jr tqx Hk;k] fQjk u eu dk QsjA communities of India. His bhajans
dj dk eudk Mkj ns] eu dk eudk QsjAA are preserved in the Guru Granth
Sahib, bijak and panch Vani.
dchjk rsjh >ksiM+h xydfV;u ds iklA Today, his writings are translated
tSlh djuh&oSlh Hkjuh] rw D;ksa Hk;s mnklAA and sung worldwide, and that
makes him timeless.
ftu [kkstk fru ikb;k] xgjs ikuh iSBA
Kabir believed in the formless
eSa ciqjk cwMu Mjk] jgk fdukjs cSBAA
supreme divine forces. The
language of his poetry was simple
fuand fu;js jkf[k,] vk¡ xu dqVh Nok;A Hindi and was widely understood
fcu ikuh] lkcqu fcuk] fueZy djs lqHkk;AA by the simple folks.

/khjs&/khjs js euk] /khjs lc dqN gks;A Kabir’s childhood stories deeply

ekyh lhaps lkS ?kM+k] vk, Qy gks;AA inspire educational initiatives and
children of Bharat.
djr&djr vH;kl ds] tM+efr gksr lqtkuA
jljh vkor tkr rsa] fly ij ijr fulkuAA

113
C O M P L E T E M E S S A G E S & B L E S S I N G S
F O R N A N H I D U N Y A

The one with the curvy trunk,

Mighty body form,
Qualities like a million suns.
Dev Sri Ganesh, always complete all work
without any hindrances.

Ganapati or Bhagwan Ganesh is considered auspicious in cultures of Bharat and is

worshipped before the beginning of every event, project or celebration.
115
116
 Smt Kiran Ulfat Goyal being
felicitated by Hon Governor
117 Sardar Gurmit Singh ji
118
119
120
121
122
Shri Om Birla

123
G Kishan Reddy

124
 Hon. Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji, The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand with Satvika Goyal and children

Meeting with the Honourable Chief Minister

Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami ji was a special part of Nanhi Dunya Platinum
Jubilee celebration. Honourable Chief Minister, with his kind personality
made a deep impression on the children of Nanhi Dunya Community.

Hon. Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand with Nanhi Dunya Rangshala

125
126
Shri Bhupendra Patel

127
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma

128
129
Shri Manoj Sinha

130
i=kad ------------------------------- fnukad-------------------------------

'kqHkdkeuk lUns'k
eq>s ;g tkudkj gkfnZd çlUurk gks jgh gS] fd uUgh nqfu;k cPpksa ,oa muds fgrsf"k;ksa dk
vUrjkZ"Vªh; vkUnksyu viuh çfrc)rk vkSj [kq'kh ds 75 o"kZ jsucks IysfVue tqcyh ds :i esa euk
jgh gS- cPpksa ds 'kqHkfpUrdksa dks laj{kdksa Lo;alsodks vfHkHkkodks f'kf{kdksa vksj I;kjs cPpksa dks esjh
gkfnZd 'kqHkdkeuk,saA fdlh Hkh laLFkku ds bfrgkl esa gj ehy dk iRFkj ihNs eqM+dj ns[kus dk
volj gksrk gSA eSa orZeku vkSj vrhr ds mu lHkh yksxksa dks viuh c/kkbZ vkSj 'kqHkdkeuk,sa nsrk
gw¡ ftUgksus bl vkUnksyu dh çxfr esa ;ksxnku fn;k gSA vk'kkoknh vksj çfrHkk'kkyh ;qok lkfRodk
xks;y vUrjkZ"Vªh; czso fdM~l QsLVhoy esa uUgh nqfu;k ds çfrHkkxh cPpksa ds lkFk dbZ ckj eq>s feyhA
uUgh nqfu;k ds LFkkiuk fnol ij eq>s cPpksa dh vUrjkZ"Vªh; çLrqfr ns[kus dk 'kqHkvolj çkIr gqvkA

eq>s iw.kZfo'okl gS] fd og vius O;äfrRo vkSj —frRo ds ek/;e ls uUgh nqfu;k dks
lQyrk ds mPpre lksiku ij ys tk,xhA

bl volj ij lksfofu;j ds lQy çdk'ku gsrq eSa viuh gkfnZd 'kqHkdkeuk,a çsf"kr djrk gwaA

enu dkSf'kd
fo/kk;d
çns'k v/;{k
Hkkjrh; turk ikVhZ
mÙkjk[k.M

132
133
 (Dr. Sadanand Date)

I am happy to know that 'Nanhi Dunya' is celebrating its 'Rainbow Platinum Jubilee'
and also bringing out a Souvenir to mark the occasion.

'Nanhi Dunya' has achieved outstanding success in past several decades in the field
of welfare of children, women and youth. It has demonstrated a high degree of commitment
towards serving underprivileged children leading to wellbeing of society as a whole.

I would like to compliment to all those associated with 'Nanhi Dunya' family for their
commendable work in providing an excellent education to underprivileged children. I pray
and wish that 'Nanhi Dunya' would have many more decades of fruitful service towards
dignity and holistic development of children and other individuals with special needs.

I wish 'Nanhi Dunya' family continued success for their future endeavors.

(Dr. Sadanand Date)

134
135
Tarun Vijay

136
 बाबा हठयोगी जी
BABA HATHYOGI
CHANDIGHAT, HARIDWAR

ckck gB;ksxh Lokeh jkenso ,oa ckck gFk;ksfx th

uUgha nqfu;k vkanksyu dks 75 o"kZ ds cky o lekt lsok ds dk;Z esa lrr tqVs jgus ds fy,] baæèkuq"kh; IySfVue
t;arh ds volj ij gkfnZd 'kqHkdkeuk,a nsrk gw¡ A

Jh ys[kjkt mYQr vkSj Jherh lkèkuk mYQr ds fn[kk, bl ekxZ dks vkSj bl vkLFkk dks eSa lnk ljkgrk jgk
gw¡A eS a vfr çlUu gwa fd mudk lkSaik gqvk LoIu Jherh fdju o Jh vkyksd] vkSj lkFk es a Jh fot; xks;y th
us tqM+dj iwjs eu ls lkdkj fd;k gSA

eSa uUgha nqfu;k ds lHkh cksMZ vkQ VªLVht dks Hkh iwjs eu ls cèkkbZ nsrk gw¡ vkSj vkHkkjh gw¡ ftUgksaus uUgha nqfu;k
ds olqèkSo dqVqacde~ ds fopkj dks lkdkj djus esa iwjk lg;ksx fn;k gS vkSj ns jgs gSaA

eSa ns[k jgk gw¡ fd vc vkus okyh ih<+h vk'kq lfRodk o vkstL; cgqr gh mRlkg ok cqf)erk ls fodflr gks jgs
gS a vkSj Hkfo"; esa lekt ds mRFkku ds fy, lg;ksx nsaxs] ;g esjk vk'khokZn gSA

eS a ;s Hkh vk'kk djrk gw¡ fd uUgha nqfu;k u dsoy mÙkjk[kaM dk ekxZn'kZu djsxh vfirq iwjs Hkkjro"kZ vkSj foÜo
dks ekuork dh jkg ij py l'kä lekt cukus dk ekxZ ç'kLr djsxhA

ckck gB;ksxh

lfpo fnxEcj v[kkM+k

paMh?kkV gfj}kj

Baba Hathyogi is a realized being and Mahant of Shri Dogamber Akhada, Gaurishankar Gaushala (Shelter for Cows), and Temple
Chandighat. Every year, he meets thousands of followers and inspires them to live a life of Dharma and protect abandoned
cows. He also plays an important role in the Clean Ganga Movement and Yoga Movement. He is presently contributing to the
development of spiritual centers in Haridwar and other places in India.

137
138
Rekha Sharma

139
140
141
142
 MANJUL KUMAR JOSHI
IAS (Retd)

It gives me immense satisfaction to greet you and the Nanhi Dunya family on its "Rainbow
Platinum Jubilee". This organization is doing excillent service for the underprivileged strata
of society. The distinguished founder of this organization, Shri. Ulfat was a visionary, a
philanthropist and a social reformer educationist. The organization has since moved from
strength to strength.

I have had an opportunity to know Nanhi Dunya through Smt. Kiran U. Goyal, who is an
equally worthy daughter and successor of Professor Ulfat. I found her totally immersed in
the upkeep and steady progress of Nanhi Dunya. Her enthusiasm and hard work deserves
sincere acknowledgement and appreciation. I wish all the luck to her and all those who
are working with her. I congratulate Nanhi Dunya on its Rainbow Platinum Jubilee. I am
honoured to write this message for the Souvenir of this event.

I remain sincerely yours,

Manjul Kumar Joshi

HARISH CHANDRA
1st National Gallantry Awardee – 1957

It is outstanding that the movement which was founded in 1946 by Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat ji
and his wife Sadhana Ulfat ji is still serving economically weaker sections of the society.

Professor Ulfat ji was the General Secretary of ICCW. I was connected to Shri Lekh Raj
Ulfat working for the same social cause through involvement in the Indian Council for
Child Welfare. He promoted the development of children in India globally for many
years through his immense dedication. You have maintained peaceful, sustainable and
integrated environment for children till date.

At the time of “RAINBOW PLATINUM JUBLIEE” celebrations, I convey my heartiest blessings

and wishes for the brightest future of “NANHI DUNYA”.

I pray that God blesses you to complete your glorious future aims.

Regards

Harish Chander - Social Activist

143
 COMMANDER PAWANJIT SINGH

Congratulations and best wishes for your noble cause. You’ve started small, but I strongly believe
that under your stewardship 'Nanhi Dunya' will eventually transform into a meadow of flowers
shining all over and contributing to the growth of our beautiful Nation. Knowing you and your
great determination in life, I believe that there’s nothing on Earth that can hinder the progress and
success of this service towards the society.

Best wishes.

Warm Regards

Commander Pawanjit Singh

Indian Navy

S. K. KHANNA

It is heartwarming to learn that you are bringing out a Souvenir to commemorate "Rainbow
Platinum Jubilee" of Nanhi Dunya,a movement started by Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat ji, who
despite being the elder treated me like a friend. Ulfat ji had tremendous courage and
steely determination.

Nanhi Dunya Movement in its present form wouldn't have been possible without his
strong will...

eSa vdsyk gh pyk Fkk tkfuc&,&eatf़y exj

yksx lkFk vkrs x, vkSj dkjok¡ curk x;k

I pray for great success for "Rainbow Platinum Jubilee" celebrations with a prayer that
Nanhi Dunya be leading light for all our children.

S. K. Khanna
Faridabad

144
 Anselma Remmers
T H E N E T H E R L A N D S

Dear family of Nanhi Dunya

With this collection of pictures we want to express our love,

admiration and respect for all of you for the great work you
are doing. We are sending you congratulations for the 75th
birthday of Nanhi Dunya! So many years of social work, done
Handmade school board of Nanhi Dunya
by so many dedicated people.

I remember my first time in Nanhi Dunya, that was in 1985.

I was there, together with my brother Jeroom. We met
Mr. Ulfat, a wise man, who could think for the future. He
foresaw what is needed in the world and he dedicated his
Children of Nanhi Dunya Vikas Nagar
life for the care of children. He received us in his office in
Delhi, and later at 10 Inder Road in Dehradun. We also met
dear Sadhana Ulfat ji, who co-founded many activities with
Mr. Ulfat. She was such a good educator, a true teacher, and
at the same time a mother for all the children and teachers at
Nanhi Dunya. I will never forget those days.

In 1990, I visited Nanhi Dunya again and met Mr. and Mrs.
Ulfat, Kiran, Vijay and Ashu as a lovely little child. They also
have visited the Netherlands a few times and shared their
Kiran, Anselma & Marieke
experiences and culture with school communities. I continued
visiting India in 1997, 2013 with my daughter Marieke, alone in
2015 and in 2018 come with my husband Bram. In each visit, I
met wonderful and happy children of Nanhi Dunya with their
sprinkling eyes full of joy. They performed dances, singing,
theatre, presented artworks and played games with us. On
many occasions I worked with dedicated teachers on how to
work and make creative activities for children.

It was inspiring to see the buildings being painted and being

changed, by the hands of Alok and his friends. In Vikas Nagar,
a whole new hall with new furniture was built above the
school. Thanks to Vijay’s and Kiran’s great work who were
guiding and looking after so many things.
Marieke with new friends

145
Our wishes for Nanhi Dunya are that it will develop towards
what is needed in this time and in the future. We wish that
Nanhi Dunya will continue to be a movement for children to
learn and play. An inspiring place for youth and adults to find
meaningful life. May we protect our environment and work
to build a unified world - a place of peace and love, full of Anselma & Bram with Karanpur children
rainbow colours, connecting the world.

Bram Kluen
Marieke Vingerhoets
Anselma Remmers

Anselma at Dalanwala school

Marieke, Vince & Ama

Anselma is a Waldorf teacher and has been working with the development
of Waldorf education in the Netherlands and overseas. She has initiated
many activities and teacher training courses in India and Nepal.
Anselma and Bram

146
 COL. RAVINDRA KUMAR MEHROTRA
NANHI DUNYA TRUSTEE

Col. Ravindra Kumar Mehrotra

I have known Nanhi Dunya for over 35 years and after my retirement, I have been
closely associated with it since 1995. I feel proud to say that Nanhi Dunya founded by
Ulfat ji, Sadhana ji, and now continues to expand with Kiran, Vijay, Alok ,Satvika and their
wonderful community members. All of them selflessly serving and nurturing Nanhi Dunya
as an initiative with global repute especially for individuals with special needs and the
underprivileged.

I feel highly honoured to be a member of this intercultural movement. I was

very happy when the children of Nanhi Dunya participated in Brave Festival in Poland
and Ukraine. They gave inspirational performances and brought joy to the festival.
I also had the opportunity to take the school children to meet the 11th Prime minister Hon
H. D. Deve Gowda on Nanhi Dunya’s Golden Jubilee celebration. I hope we take another
wonderful journey to Delhi soon.

Me and Deepa ji are very happy that Nanhi Dunya is celebrating Rainbow Platinum
Jubilee this year. We send our blessings and Best Wishes to whole Nanhi Dunya community;
all staff members and students for their ‘heart-work’ and sincerity.

With fond regards

Col. Ravindra Kumar Mehrotra (Retd)

Board of Trustee Nanhi Dunya

1st June 2022

147
 ALOK KUMAR JAIN
P R I T A M C A S T L E

All staff members of our group join me in extending our Heartiest

Congratulations on the occasion of celebration of the RAINBOW PLATINUM
JUBILEE' of Nanhi Dunya.
Indeed it has been a long journey for the organisation which is
devoted to the service of children especially underprivileged and Children
in need of special caro.
We are very happy to be associated with you and consider it our
privilege to be a part of this organisation. It is matter of great honour for
us that we are able to supplement the ongoing efforts of Nanhi Dunya
family towards this noble cause.
We pray to God that he continues to give strength and provide
guidance to staff and management so that they can further this noble
cause in bigger way each day.

With Best Wishes

Alok Kumar Jain

Financial Advisor and Chartered Accountant of Nanhi Dunya

148
 Shri VED PRAKASH JAIN SAHIB
SOCIAL WORKER & PRACTITIONER OF NON-VIOLENCE
NANHI DUNYA TRUSTEE

I came to know about Nanhi Dunya in 1961 through a pamphlet.

I immediately decided to support this cause for children.
I went and met Ulfat ji and Didi ji, and they introduced me
to Nanhi Dunya. I knew that their efforts were sincere and
needed support.

As by profession I was an accountant therefore I was offered

to take care of Nanhi Dunya’s accounts. I learnt many new
things, and serving little children gave me a purpose. With
time I soon realized that I was involved with different aspects
of the movement. I would visit the schools with Didi ji and
was asked to give special attention to Prem Nagar branch. Shri Ved Prakash Jain

Here, I came to know many wonderful souls like the Board of Trustees Shri Paripurnanand
Verma, Shri Om Kapoor ji , Shri Akbar khan ji and many friends like Shri Yashwant Singh ji,
Shri Narender ji, Shri Yajnavalkya Dutta ji - Editor and owner of Frontier Mail and many more
devotees.

Ulfat ji was a simple hearted person. He remained engaged in the development of new India, and
would mix with local communities to strengthen the social fabric. He trusted people but some
individuals took advantage of his simplicity and broke his trust. But this never wavered his faith in
humanity. He continued to work for the good cause. I always stood by him.

There are energies which shaped Dehradun, and Nanhi Dunya is one such initiative. What Ulfat
ji and Sandhana Didi had envisioned, Nanhi Dunya is gone ahead of those parameters. Today
it stands strong and tall with endless plans to reach to the needy. What I always admired is
that Nanhi Dunya is authentic and is striving to find its own identity.

We may find violence on our way but we shall keep working in silence. The negative will
transform. 'kkar jgks] c<+rs pyks] tks cqjk gS oks cny tk,xkA

lkfFk;ksa ge uUgha nqfu;k¡ dh lsok esa tquwu ls tqVs jgs]

tks jg x;k oks iwjk dj yhft,xkA

Ved Prakash Jain

Shri V.P. Jain is Board of Trustees. Shri Ved Prakash Jain has committed his whole life in helping in the development of Nanhi
Dunya. He is 91 years young and has cured his own cancer through Pranayama and Ayurvedic lifestyle. He is always present
at all Nanhi Dunya significant events.
149
 Dr. B.K. ENDLAY
DOCTOR, SOCIAL HEALER & PHILANTHROPIST
NANHI DUNYA TRUSTEE

Dr. B.K. Endlay

I am glad to learn that Nanhi Dunya is going to publish a Souvenir. I am associated with Nanhi Dunya
since 1967 when I was posted as medical officer in-charge Civil Hospital Vikas Nagar Dehradun.
Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat started Nanhi Dunya with a unique concept of making children creative in
studies and in life. Ulfat ji and Sadhana ji left no stone unturned in giving children coming from
humble and challenged backgrounds a world class education, by inviting artists, cultural workers,
educationists, social workers, and volunteers from overseas. Mutual exchange programmes enrich
the school community. In this way Nanhi Dunya offers learning beyond the curriculum.

Ulfat ji as an ideal teacher with powerful presence and a very good friend of children. Now there
are many branches of Nanhi Dunya, preparing good individuals for present and future. I pray to
mother goddess that Nanhi Dunya, the center for universal friendship expands further.

I am grateful to Mrs Kiran Ulfat Goyal, Chief Promoter of Nanhi Dunya for taking ahead the
organization with love and care.

With best wishes to Nanhi Dunya and its staff members.

Dr. B.K. Endlay

Member of Board of Trustee, Nanhi Dunya

Post Graduate from All India Institute of Hygiene & Public Health, Kolkata University, Life member
at I.M.A, A.P.I (Uttarakhand & Dehradun), A.M.S, C.G.P & Red Cross Society, Ex Sr, Vice President
U.P.I.M.A, served in Provincial Medical & Health at Dehardun, Meerut, Bareilly, Mussoorie, Hathras
and more. Retd. Sr. Medical Superintendent Doon Hospital, Dehradun

150
 Prof. TIRLOCHAN SINGH BHASIN
PROFESSEOR MUSICIAN & SOUL SEEKER

Prof. Tirlochan Singh Bhasin Bhoomi, Tirlochan ji, Gautam, Ravi, Anu

I am very happy to learn that Nanhi Dunya, "The International Movement of Children &
Their Friends", is celebrating its "Rainbow Platinum Jubilee". I have seen its humble beginnings
more than 75 years ago and its grown into a wide spread movement, dedicated to education,
welfare of child and women, development of youth, hearing and speech impaired and children
in need of special care. It's open to new ideas and wholistic living in the latest dimension. It is
connected worldwide and continues to expand its sacred work.

I must say that you are trending a beautiful journey, and may your fragrance
spread worldwide. Please never ever feel despaired when problems pile up. Your
achievements are astounding and you have a long way to go. Whenever you feel low,
call on me. We are your friends. I assure you that we would always be there to help you.
I remember the following lines from a poem of Robert Frost:

"The woods are lovely, dark and deep

But I have promises to keep
And miles to go before I sleep
And miles to go before I sleep."

Prof. Tirlochan Singh Bhasin

Educationist

151
 Shri VIJAY KUMAR GOYAL
NATIONAL VOLLEYBALL COACH & SOCIAL WORKER

नन्हीं दुनिया के प्रति मेरी आस्था

आशावादी विचारों के धनी, श्रद्धे य उल्फत जी एवं मातृ शक्ति साधना माँ के समाज व बाल सेवा के प्रति समर्पण को दे खकर ही
मैं नन्हीं दुनिया से जुड़ गया।

यह मेरा सौभाग्य है कि उनका सान्निध्य तो मुझे प्राप्त हुआ ही, साथ ही उन जैसे सरल व्यक्तित्व के साथ बुद्धिजीवियों और
महानुभावों से, कई जगह जाने व मिलने का अवसर भी मिला। सरल स्वभाव, चेहरे पर मीठी मुस्कान द्वारा ही वे दोनों ही मानवीय सम्बन्धों
को बना लेते थे । वे बच्चों की अंतरात्मा से प्यार करते थे। हर कार्य को निष्ठापूर्वक करना ही उनके जीवन की प्रगति का कारण था।
वह अपने सिद्धांतो के प्रति समझौता नहीं करते थे। स्वयं पर विश्वास और सत्य की राह अपनाने पर कठिन उतार-चढ़ाव आते रहे और वह
मुक्त विचारधारा के साथ उन्हें चुनौती समझकर नयी सम्भावनाओं में परिवर्ति त करते रहे। उनके महान व्यक्तित्व एवं कृतित्व से प्रभावित
होकर मैं तन, मन, धन से नन्हीं दुनिया के प्रति समर्पित हो गया।

उल्फत जी व साधना माँ, अत्यंत संवेदनशील थे और बच्चों में ईश्वर दे खते थे। उन्होंने कठिन परिस्थितियों में भी कभी हार नहीं
मानी। मैंने देखा कि विशिष्ट व्यक्तियों की सभाओं में भी उनकी आस्था व समाज के पुननिर्माण के प्रति उनका समर्पण उन्हें कीर्ति प्रदान
करता रहा।

मेरे पारिवारिक संबंध होने के कारण, मैं उनके जीवन के संघर्ष व सफलताओं का साक्षी व सहभागी रहा हूँ । नन्हीं दुनिया एक ऐसा
आं दोलन है, जिसमें बच्चे अपने सपनों को मूर्त रूप से प्रत्यक्ष होते दे खते हैं, और ये एक मौलिक उपलब्धि है ।

इं द्रधनुषीय हीरक जयंती (Rainbow Platinum Jubilee) नन्हीं दुनिया के इतिहास का एक ऐसा मील का पत्थर है जो बच्चों
के प्रति प्यार व सद्भाव का द्योतक है। आइए हम सभी इस उत्सव को सहृदय मनाएँ । उगते सूर्य की तरह नन्हीं दुनिया का तेज सदैव
बढ़ता रहे ।

सदैव बच्चों का हितैषी एवं मित्र

विजय कुमार गोयल

राष्ट्रीय वॉलीबॉल प्रशिक्षक व समाज सेवी

नेताजी सुभाष राष्ट्रीय क्रीड़ा संस्थान पटियाला से वॉलीबॉल खेल में राष्ट्रीय प्रशिक्षक उपाधिपत्र प्राप्त किया। ओ.एन.जी.सी. के ऑन शोर एवं ऑफ शोर तेल उत्पादन

परियोजना में सेवार्थ , राष्ट्रीय स्तर पर वॉलीबॉल खिलाड़ी , भारत सरकार पेट्रोलियम और प्राकृतिक गैस मंत्रालय द्वारा व्यक्तिगत श्रेणी के अंतर्गत सुरक्षा के क्षेत्र में

अनुकरणीय योगदान के लिए तेल उद्योग सुरक्षा पुरस्कार से सम्मानित श्री विजय कुमार गोयल कई दशकों से नन्हीं दुनिया से जुड़े हुए हैं।

152
 Shri YOGENDRA KUMAR YOGI
NANHI DUNYA, HASTINAPUR

मेरा जीवन पिरचय एवं नन्हीं दु िनया के प्रित लगाव

मेरा नाम योगेंद्र कुमार योगी है मेरा जन्म 10 अगस्त सन 1954 को ग्राम खेड़ी सराय, त० जानसठ िजला मुजफ्फरनगर, उत्तर
प्रदेश में एक जमींदार पिरवार में हुआ था । मेरे िपता का नाम श्री धमर्पाल िसं ह एवं माता का नाम श्रीमती प्रकाशवती है। मेरे बाबा
का नाम नंबरदार चौधरी रामजीलाल था जो अपने क्षेत्र के गणमान्य व्यिक्तयों में से एक थे। मेरे िपता क्षेत्रीय युवा कल्याण अिधकारी
थे और हिस्तनापुर िजला मेरठ में तैनात थे। सन् 1962 से ही हम उनके साथ हिस्तनापुर में आकर रहने लग गए थे।

मेरी प्रारंिभक िशक्षा नन्हीं दुिनया मवाना (मेरठ) से प्रारंभ हुई थी। नन्हीं दुिनया मवाना श्रद्धे य उल्फत जी का ही लगाया हुआ
पौधा था। वे मेरे प्रथम गुरु थे। वह सदैव हमारे मागर्दशर्न हेतु आते रहते थे। मुझे आज भी याद है िक नन्हीं दुिनया के संस्थापक श्री
उल्फत जी कहािनयों और किवताओं के माध्यम से बड़े ही रोचक तरीके से बच्चों को मानवता का पाठ पढ़ाया करते थे। खेल-खेल में
िकसी भी िवषय पर बच्चों को प्रोत्सािहत करने का उनका अलग ही अंदाज था।

उच्च िशक्षा प्राप्त करने के पश्चात् मै कृिष िवद्यालय हिस्तनापुर मेरठ में कायर्रत हो गया तभी मेरे मन में एक हूक जागी िक
मैं क्यों ना छोटे-छोटे बच्चों की सेवा में अपने जीवन को समिपर् त कर दू ँ। उल्फत जी से मैं अत्यिधक प्रभािवत था अतः 2 जुलाई
1980 को उल्फत जी ने हिस्तनापुर में नन्हीं दुिनया के इस छोटे से पौधे को रोप िदया। उनका यह वरदान आज एक िवशाल वृक्ष बन
कर सभी वगर् एवं संप्रदाय के बच्चो को छाँव प्रदान कर रहा है। साधना माँ और उल्फत जी ने सदैव हमारा उत्साह वधर्न िकया।
साधना माँ ने मुझे जो ममत्व िदया, वह जन्म देने वाली माँ से भी अिधक है।

मेरी धमर्पत्नी श्रीमित अिनता कुमारी एक िशक्षािवद् हैं जो 1980 से ही मेरे कंधे से कंधा िमला कर नन्हीं दुिनया के प्रित
पूणर् रूप से समिपर् त है। श्रद्धे य श्रीमित एवम् श्री उल्फत जी के जाने के पश्चात् िकरन दीदी तथा िवजय गोयल जी के संरक्षण में यह
िदन-प्रितिदन प्रगित करती जा रही है। मुझे अत्यिधक प्रसन्नता है िक साित्वका गोयल बच्चों को कलात्मक वा सृजनात्मक गितिविधयो
के माध्यम से प्रेिरत करती रहती है। उनकी ही प्रेरणा से बच्चों ने ‘Goi Peace Foundation’ जापान द्वारा आयोिजत अन्तरार्ष्ट्रीय
िनबंध प्रितयोिगता में भाग ले कर नन्हीं दुिनयाँ का नाम रौशन िकया है।

यह हम सब के िलए गौरव की बात है िक हम आज नन्हीं दुिनया के 75 वें वषर् को "इं द्रधनुषीय हीरक जयंती" के रूप में
मना रहे हैं। मुझे िवश्वास है िक िकरन दीदी ऐसे ही हम सभी पर अपना स्नेह बनाएं रखेंगी।

योगेन्द्र कुमार योगी

नन्हीं दुिनयाँ, हिस्तनापुर

153
 Smt. CHHAYA SHARMA
NANHI DUNYA TRUSTEE

नन्हीं दुिनया एक छिव...

नन्हीं दुिनया में सघन वृक्षों के झुरमुट में प्रकृित की गोद में िशक्षा प्राप्त करते छात्रों को देखकर शांित िनकेतन की
अनायास ही याद आ जाती है। नन्हीं दुिनया में बच्चों का शारीिरक, मानिसक, नैितक व चािरित्रक िवकास होता है बच्चों
के सवार्ंगीण िवकास के साथ िवश्व बंधुत्व एवम् राष्ट्रीयता की भावना का स्वतः ही िवकास हो जाता है चाहे उनकी
सांस्कृितक व आिथर् क पृष्ठभूिम कुछ भी हो उल्फत युगल अंतरार्ष्ट्रीयवाद पर िवश्वास करते थे। िकसी भी सभ्यता व
संस्कृित को वे एकाकी नहीं देखना चाहते थे। मानवता की वकालत करते हुए, वह चाहते थे िक नन्हीं दुिनया जैसे िवद्यालय
आकाश के नीचे सभी जगह खुलें। िशक्षा का उद्देश्य मनुष्य को तैयार करना है। प्रोफेसर उल्फत जी अपने अंदाज में ऐसी
िशक्षा शैली िवकिसत करना चाहते थे। वे मानते थे िक प्रकृित सवर्श्रेष्ठ िशक्षक है। ये कमर्भूिम की दुिनया है, यहां कमर्
सभी को करना है। ईश्वर िसफर् लकीरें देते हैं, रंग हमें ही भरना होता है। श्रीमित साधना एवं प्रो. उल्फत जी ने िजस
उद्देश्य के िलए नन्हीं दुिनया प्रारंभ की, वह थी बच्चों की सेवा।

साित्वका गोयल के नेतृत्व में अंतरार्ष्ट्रीय मंच पर नन्हीं दुिनया के प्रितभाशाली बच्चों ने शैिक्षक एवं सांस्कृितक
कायर्क्रमों द्वारा भारतीय संस्कृित को प्रस्तुत कर, नन्हीं दुिनया का नाम िवश्व पटल पर अंिकत कर एक नई िमसाल कायम
की। वह बधाई की पात्र हैं। िवजय गोयल, आलोक उल्फत एवं समस्त सदस्यों के सहयोग से यह िदन प्रितिदन सुदृढ़
होती जा रही है।

मुझे िवश्वास है िक नन्हीं दुिनया अंतरार्ष्ट्रीय आं दोलन "वसुधैव कुटुंबकम' की भावना से िनरंतर प्रगित करती रहेगी।

छाया शमार्
बोडर् ऑफ ट्रस्टी

िववाह से पूवर् बी.एड. महािवद्यालय कोटा में प्रोफेसर के रूप में िशक्षा जगत की सेवा की। तदपुरांत केन्द्रीय िवद्यालय में
२५ वषर् तक िशक्षण कायर् िकया।

154
 Jh jes'k pan 'kekZ
Shri RAMESH CHAND SHARMA
NANHI DUNYA TRUSTEE

vknj.kh; Jh ys[kjkt mY Qr
+ th ,oa ekrk Jherh lk/kuk
mY Qr
+ th dh ;kn vkuk ,d lgt çfØ;k gSA tks Hkh muds laidZ es a
vk;k] ftuls Hkh mudk feyuk gqvk] muls laokn dk ekSdk cuk] vxj
,d ckj Hkh ,slk gqvk rks mudh fouezrk] xgjkbZ] viukiu] lgtrk]
ljyrk] Li"Vrk] lfØ;rk] lknxh] eLrh] tquwu dk çHkko lkQ lkQ
fn[kkbZ nsrk FkkA ml {k.k iy le; dks Hkqykuk vklku ugh a gSA mldh
xgjh Nki lkeus okys ds fnyks fnekx ij Nk tkrh FkhA ,sls yksxks a dk
vHkko vkt utj vk jgk gSA

[k qykiu] lcdks Lohdkj djus dh {kerk] fo'okl dh ftank felky]

I;kj ds I;kÅ / ijc] cnyko dh rM+i] fuekZ.k dh pkg] fdlh Hkh
fLFkfr es a ixMa Mh] jkg ryk'kus dh fgEer] dq N u;k djus ds fy,
lcdq N nko ij yxkus dh dyk] ckr ckr es a dFkk fdLls dfork dh
jpuk] ftanxh thus dk vkuan] Hkkoh ih<+h dh fpark] vafre ckyeu
rd igqpa us dh pkg] gj psgjs ij gal h [kq'kh dk liuk] uUgha nq fu;k
dk l`tu ftlds ru eu jkse jks e es a clk gks og naifÙk gS ys[ kjkt
mY Qr+ ,oa lk/kuk mY QrA+

vxyh ih<+h Hkh bl nhid dks mTtoy] jkS'ku] tx exkrs j[kus ds fy, lrr ç;kljr gSA /kU;okn o vk'khokZnA

uUgh a nqfu;k ds vfojy cky egk Rs lo e s a ge vkfn;k x s h] vxLR; e fq u] _f"k okYehfd] ukfpdsrk] ekrk ;'kk ns k]
lunhiuh eqfu] Hkä çºykn] _f"k fo'okfe=] _f"k osnO;kl] _f"k czãx qIr] vkfn'kadjk] /kzoq ] _f"k pjd] _f"k
'kwl:r] _f"k ikf.kfu] _f"k vk;ZHkêk] eS=h] jSnkl] jfonkl] gfjnkl] r qylhnkl] lar dchjnkl] ehjk ckbZ] Jh x # q
ukud nso] xkxhZ] egf"kZ iratfy] vfgY;kckbZ gk y s dj] lfo=hckbZ Qw ys] Qkfrek 'ks[k] jke—".k ijegal] Lokeh
foosdkuan] Jh vjfoan] jchUæukFk Bkdq j] Lokeh n;kuan ljLorh] M‚ loZiYyh jk/kk—"uu] ftíw —".kefw rZ] fouksck
Hkkos] voqy ifdj tSuyq kCnhu] (A. P. J.) vCn qy dyke dks ge lân; J); Lej.k djrs gSAa

balku dk tUe vklku gS exj balku cuuk vyx ckr gSA balku dk l`tu] fuekZ .k] x<+ uk] laokjuk] cukuk o
lsok djuk ,d dyk le>-lksp dk liuk gSA bl cky egksRlo ij leLr uUgh a nq fu;k ifjokj dks 'kqHkdkeukvks a
lfgr lknj t; txrA

jes'k pan 'kekZ

uUgh a nqfu;k¡ ck sMZ vksQ V Lª Vh

je 's k th xka/kh 'kkafr çfr"Bku e s a dk;Zjr o ns'k fons'k e s a xka/kh th l s ç sfjr dk;Z djr s jgs gAS a
og xka/kh LVMh lfdZy ds v/;{k FksA vkReniZ.k vkSj ;qok dY;k.k if=dkvks a ds iwoZ laiknd] og dbZ lkekftd
dY;k.k igyks a ds lkFk lfØ; :i ls 'kkfey jgs gS a tSls fgalk ds f[kykQ ;qok vfHk;ku] r#.k 'kkafr lsuk]
ckaXykns'k] fcgkj] vksfM'kk] mÙkjk[kaM] vka/kz çns'k] xqtjkr esa çk—frd vkink jkgr dk;Z vkSj pacy ?kkVh ds MdS rks a
dk vkReleiZ.kA og tEew&d'ehj tSls dbZ v'kkar jkT;ks a es a fofHkUu 'kkafr vfHk;kuks a es a Hkh 'kkfey jgs gS aA mUgksu
a s
'kkafr vkSj vfgalk ij v/;;u ds æa ] f'kfoj vk;ksftr fd, gS aA og xka/kh 'kkafr QkmaMs'ku ds lkFk dke djrs gS a
vkSj gekjs le; ds lPps xka/khoknh gS aA jes'k th t; çdk'k ukjk;.k vkSj fouksck Hkkos ds f'k"; jgs gS aA og jax
fgeky; ds ekxZn'kZd gS a vkSj viuh –f"V vkSj jpukRed ;ksxnku ds lkFk R;ksgkj dk iks"k.k djrs gS aA
155
156
 Satish Kumar ji with Satvika
Satish Kumar is an Indian British activist. A Jain monk, nuclear disarmament advocate and pacifist. Now living in England,
Kumar is founder and Director of Programmes of the Schumacher College international center for ecological studies, and
is Editor Emeritus of Resurgence & Ecologist magazine. He walked over 8,000 miles for two and a half years together with
his friend E. P. Menon, for peace, from New Delhi to Moscow, Paris, London, and Washington, D.C., the capitals of the world's
earliest nuclear-armed countries. He insists that reverence for nature should be at the heart of every political and social debate.
Satish Kumar is undoubtedly one of the most influential environmental world leaders and Nanhi Dunya is blessed with his
guardianship. Alok has been his pupil for the past 37 years.

157
158
 A J A R N S U L A K S I VA R A K S A
S I A M

Learn to bring your heart and your thoughts together

- Sulak Sivaraksa

It was such a pleasure for me to visit Nanhi Dunya, after I

met with fellow Right Livelihood Laureate Vandana Shiva at Bija
Vidyapeeth farm in Dehra Dun. Alok Ulfat introduced me to this
lovely community of “children and their friends”. I met Sadhana
Maa who was unwell. She stood at the threshold. I prayed for her.

SInce then, I have been enjoying Alok's presence and his Avikal
performers who would present a wonderful chorus before my
speech. Twice in Mumbai and once in Dehradun.

Alok conducted extraordinarily engaging workshops for the

participants of our CURLS summer school in Bangkok and in rural
Thailand. Gunjan Rajive and Satvika assisted in the workshops with
authentic contributions. They kindly visited Wongsanit Ashram.
WE ALL LEARNT INFINITELY FROM EACH OTHER AND WE ENJOY
RECIPROCAL BLESSINGS across persons, countries, cultures and
generations.

We became what we call in the context of Engaged Buddhism

“kaliyanamitras”: good friends who dare to speak the truth and
stand with each other.

I wish that Nanhi Dunya will continue its essential contribution

to society for many more years to come.

Warm congratulations for the 75th Anniversary of Nanhi Dunya

Sulak Sivaraksa, Siam

Sulak Sivaraksa is a Buddhist spiritual leader, an author, social transformer, a mentor and a humanitarian who has been
awarded with Right Livelihood Award for his contributions in social criticism and grassroots upliftment, that uses spiritual
models to advocate for sustainable change to better the lives of poor, rural communities in Siam (Thailand) and inspiring
students worldwide.

159
H A N S VA N W I L L E N S WA A R D
C U L T U R A L W O R K E R & I N I T I A T O R

CONGRATULATIONS on the 75th Anniversary of

NANHI DUNYA. It is hard to believe that a place that
is so young at heart and always full of the energy of
happy children, is already 75 years old.

I am honored to consider myself an old friend. I met

Professor Lekh Raj Ulfat at Emerson College in 1982.
He convinced me that I should spend the little savings
I could make during college life, on a trip to India to
visit him at Dehra Dun. The day came true that I arrived late by night in a autorickshaw, around the
corner, at the gate near the kitchen. From that moment I started experiencing a synthesis of two
English narratives, but in a fully Indian cast: the worlds of Dickens and that of Alice in Wonderland.

Prof. Ulfat was a wonderous man, full of pride and charisma. However, tempered by a humility
symbolized by his “one paisa in a matchbox” campaign – which never came off the ground. If all
people of the world would send him one paisa in a matchbox, Nanhi Dunya would be rich …

I met Sadhana Ji, Kiran and Vijay and later, at the Indian Council of Child Welfare in Delhi, a young
man with magic and turbulent ideas, Alok. Baba and Chungu were the guardians of the “little world”
– Nanhi Dunya that was co-created day by day in the rhythm of the children attending classes and
playing with joy.

Once during a Christmas Eve at Emerson College Ulfat lit two candles in the decorated tree, for
two persons that passed away that year: Major T Ramachandra and Prof D J Van Bemmelen, both
friends who had helped Prof. Ulfat to develop his dream that emerged from improvised storytelling
for children under a tree – following resettlement in Dehra Dun from Pakistan – to a contemporary
school community with ideas and practices far ahead of mainstream education.

As a symbol of my deep gratitude for the Ulfat family, all the teachers and co-workers, the children,
their parents and friends, for sharing their “wonderworld” with me, I still keep the white woolen
blanket that was offered to me, around the ceremonial fire of the 50th anniversary celebrations.
I use it to warm myself during chilly nights and moments of fright. It is the warmth of Love and
Compassion which I carry with me thanks to the enormous joint efforts of the Nanhi Dunya
“commons”. Now perpetuating into the future with 75 year old wisdom.

Thank you deeply, also on behalf of my wife Wallapa, and enjoy the Anniversary Party.

Hans van Willenswaard

Thailand / the Netherlands

Hans currently works at the Earth Trusteeship Platform, School for Wellbeing Studies and Research.
He is co- founder of Innovation Network International (INI), Right Livelihood College Bangkok.
Advisor to Nanhi Dunya Movement, India. He is seeking the middle path to global transformation.

160
 Shri Kuldip Shiva

Congratulations Nanhi Dunya for the Rainbow Platinum Jubilee.

Nanhi Dunya, is a beautiful initiative and has emerged as a caring community for children and their families for
their wholistic upbringing.

We got connected to Nanhi Dunya through our Bija Vidyapeeth Earth University - Navdanya Biodiversity Farm,
where Alok had come to conduct performing arts sessions and participate in the courses given by Vandana Shiva,
Satish Kumar and many other spiritual and ecological conscious leaders.

I have attended various functions at Nanhi Dunya, and it was very elevating to see small children participating in
artistic activities in a pleasant environment. It was very riveting to see smiling children of different backgrounds
and abilities perform together. I could not see any shortcomings in children with special needs. Nanhi Dunya may
look like a little world but for small children it is the whole world. The nutrition for this world is provided by
the efficient team of teachers and volunteers of Nanhi Dunya with guidance of Kiran and Alok. I must congratulate
the Ulfat’s for carrying out this magnificent organization for so many years.

Nanhi Dunya gives hope to those who may not find hope anywhere else. Seeing positive qualities in all and spreading
happiness is an exceptional role played by Nanhi Dunya. In present day circumstances and environment, this kind
of invigorating work brings hope and strength to people. Today Nanhi Dunya has become a centre to assist the
needy people and helps them in securing a good future for themselves. Here they learn to stand independently
and become leaders who can think good for others rather than just for themselves.

Alok with his exceptional understanding of performing arts and the ability to connect with the audience has made
him a good teacher. He has a special knack to spread positive messages. He also conducted the children camp
organized by the Bija Vidyapeeth in 2002. He has the ability create wonderful plays which engage the mind of the
audience through strong heart forces. I am glad he is fully engaged with the development of Nanhi Dunya. Satvika
Goyal as early as age 13, went to Johannesburg for the earth submit where she represented Bija Vidyapeeth (Earth
University) and India.

161
It has been a great pleasure to be associated with Nanhi Dunya. In my own humble way, I on behalf of Navdanya
and Bija Vidyapeeth, convey our sincere gratitude and best wishes to the Nanhi Dunya movement to flourish
further and continue to contribute to build a better world through wholistic practices in education and human
development.

Wing Commander Kuldip Shiva is dedicated

environmentalist of Uttarakhand and engaged with
many social & environmental initiatives. He plays a
Kuldip Shiva central role in running Navdanya - Bija Vidyapeeth -
Earth University.

Dr. Vandana Shiva, founder Navdanya & Bija Vidyapeeeth Ashu Satvika - Art & Environment Workshop

Nanhi Dunya Rangshala Youth group with Shri Satish Kumar & Shri Kuldip Shiva Shri Kuldip Shiva at work

Nanhi Dunya Rangshala Youth group learning from organic life Navdanya Earth University

162
163
 Margaret Shillan
Seeking stories in colors, guiding her students through compassion
S U S S E X E N G L A N D

Sharing a joyful moment at Nanhi Dunya Margaret Shillan with Sadhana Ulfat

I first met Lekh Raj Ulfat in 1967 when we were both students at Emerson College in
England. That started a life long friendship with the whole family and many visits to Nanhi Dunya,
which I always feel is a really special place full of inspiration. My blessings and thoughts for this
special occasion.

Margaret Shillan

Margaret Shillan lives in Brighton, England. She completed her Teacher-Training at Emerson College, served as a
class-teacher at Michael Hall school and continued to be a teacher at Emerson College. She is an accomplished artist
and has curated many art and painting exhibitions over five decades. Her students are leading many initiatives
across the world. Her philanthropic spirit continues to care for anyone who she comes in contact with. She was Alok's
class-teacher at Michael Hall school and later taught Alok and Kiran at Emerson College.

Margaret Shillan painting with the Actors of the play Prithvi

164
 O N G K U N G W A I
M A L A Y S I A

Junko & Ong Kung Wai

Alok and I crossed paths as fellow learners at Emerson College, Sussex, UK in 1984. For
Alok it was a return as an adult to where he followed Lekh and Sadhana Ulfat, as a child,
when they went for Anthroposophical studies in 1972-73. Alok brought along stories from
Nanhi Dunya and enrolled me in his quest to do something for Nanhi Dunya. Together with
others, we organised a fund raising variety performance event which managed to avail
speech trainers for Nanhi Dunya school for the deaf. I then designed my Rural Development
work study program to be in India instead of Latin America. It was a privilege in 1986 to
meet Prof. Lekh Ulfat. Busy as he was, also had time to converse life’s musing with a young
intern. There was Chungu, the cook, Pinky, the bright eyed girl and Sadhana, the Mother of
all. Busy handling visitors, admin work, always on her feet and last to eat.

My task was to set up a vegetable garden at Inder Road. My few months at Nanhi
Dunya was more a time exploring India with Alok, a young man wondering why his parents
need to be so devoted to serve the poor and struggling with, ‘Is that what is also expected
of me?’ Sadhana was generous to host me with such warmth, as a son, as with the many
children in her charge at Nanhi Dunya. I left India in Feb 1987, much humbled and schooled
about what it takes to serve humanity.

Our paths did not cross again until 2015 when I was invited to join the Right Livelihood
Summer School team in Thailand. Here, I witnessed Alok in his element, engaging participants
to Contemplate, Breath In and Act Out who they see themselves as on a Right Livelihood
pathway. I took an interest in his work. We managed a stopover weekend workshop in
Penang, Malaysia after the Right Livelihood Summer School in 2016. He came with Ashu.
They met Junko (my partner). We had fun.

There is scope for Alok’s approach in drama and communications to be part of a

teachers’ training program. Action that reveals intent and insight into children’s behaviour

165
as messages without words to respond accordingly. A week-long workshop ensued in
2017. The try out led to the decision to include Alok’s 'Life in Learning' workshop as one of 9
modules in the Early Childhood Education Malaysia’s (ECEM) training program.

Alok recently informed he is preparing to devote more time at Nanhi Dunya with
a mission to turn Nanhi Dunya schools to be more self-sustaining centres of excellence.
Where teachers can receive a rightful livelihood as deserving as the education service they
provide to the community. Many of which have since prosper well. It is a task I am familiar
with, as member of the Board of Directors at Penang Waldorf school in Seberang Perai,
Penang, from 2020, its 10th anniversary.

Congratulations Nanhi Dunya! 75 years on … more than a lifetime in service. The

foundations Lekh, Sadhana and friends have established are indeed enduring. It may or
may not have been expected of Alok but now it is his mission. I left an unfinished task.
Reconnected, let us pick up on building a rainbow bridge between Dehra Dun and Seberang
Perai, join hands and hearts to continue creating a world of celebration for children and
prepare them for the daunting challenge to come in time of climate change.

Ong Kung Wai

Director
Life Spirit Sdn Bhd
Penang Waldorf Education
Steiner Education Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Alok with Nania KG children. Junko on the right Nania KG teachers with Alok, Satvika, Junko & Kung Wai

Ong Kung Wai is a master of observation and communication. He is an activist, trainer and consultant for organic
agriculture development. He assists his wife, Junko Suzumoto, to operate Nania Kindergarten. He is also advisor
to a number of Waldorf/Steiner Education initiatives in Malaysia and Director of Steiner Education Malaysia,
a collaboration platform for Research, Promotion and Training in Holistic Education and Human Development
inspired by Rudolf Steiner. He works as freelance trainer and consultant, and serves as Director of Organic
Alliance Malaysia, Coordinator of Certification Alliance (CertAll), Malaysian delegation member of the ASEAN
Expert Working Group for Organic Agriculture.

166
 P R A S H A N T PA N G I A R
VISUAL ARTIST AUTHOR C U R AT O R MENTOR

I send Nanhi Dunya community my warmest wishes for marvellous

achievements over 75 years. Observation is one of the key
principles of learning. Art, images, symbols, movement and rhythm
are essentials of wholistic education. May Nanhi Dunya’s resilient
approach continue to strengthen the imagination of children.

I have known Shri Prashant Panjiar ji for over 4 decades. It was when he and his friends Shri Kalyan Mukherjee ji
and Shri Brijraj Singh ji were compiling a book on the life of Bandit Malkhan Singh and his company. His silence
and pictures have always inspired me. He has been there whenever I needed his guidance in my journey as an
amateur photographer and more. He and his wife Smt. Ragini Deshpande ji have supported me in my growth and
have visited Nanhi Dunya. To celebrate Nanhi Dunya’s journey, he has sent these wonderful pictures taken by him.
We are deeply honoured. - Alok Ulfat

Shri Prashant Panjiar is one of India’s leading photo-practitioners, recgonised worldwide. He has served as a
photojournalist and editor in mainstream media such as Patriot newspaper, India Today and the Outlook. He has
also worked with leading international and national publications - Time Magazine, Focus, New York Times, etc. He
specialises in reportage, editorial, a photo editor and curator. As a documentary photographer he works on issues
of health, education and livelihood for many non-profit organisations across the world. Panjiar has served on the
jury of several photography. He is actively involved in mentoring younger photographers.

Truth is a pathless land - J Krishnamurti Picture by Prashant Pangiar

167
 Pictures by Prashant Pangiar

Innocent Lives

Aimful, Mindful, Heartful, Colorful

I am joyful Freedom

Confidence in Balance Warmth and Beauty of Motherhood

BHUMESH BHARTI
VISUAL ARTIST TEACHER MENTOR

Into the Sunrise

uUgha nqfu;k, uke uUgha gS] ijUrq] bl nqfu;k dk fny vikj gSA
fo'kky ân; j[kus okys yksxksa dh bl nqfu;k esa eq>s lnk çse o lEeku feyk gSA
uUgha nqfu;k ds cPps cM+s gks dj ,d ubZ l`tukRed nqfu;k cukus esa l{ke gq, gSaA

75 o"kksaZ ls MVs jguk vius vki esa ,d vncq) dk;Z gSA

eSa lHkh ;ks)kvksa dks uUgha nqfu;k¡ ds 75 o"kZ lEiUu gksus ij fd gkfnZd 'kqHk dkeuk,¡ nsrk gw ¡ A

Bhumesh Bharti ji a photographer, teacher and mentor. Presently works as a freelance photographer, and is also
much sought after as a teacher of photography. He has worked for every prestigious organisation of Uttarakhand.
In the last three decades he has been a part of every governmemntal, educational and cultural events of the region.

Bharti ji has also been encouraging the art of photography among the youngsters. He founded in 2012 a group
called “Coloured Leaf Photography” that has attracted as its members nearly 1000 photography enthusiasts. He
co-founded “Dehra Dun Photography Club” in 2017. Bharti has also won numerous important awards for his
contribution to the field of photography. Bhumesh ji has great sensibilty to capture moments and make them
timeless.

Labour, Life and Childhood Joy of Togtherness

 Lived Culture - Nanhi Dunya
Editorial by Ashok P Misra

There are very few institutions Just a couple of generations ago,

with that extra dimension in the highly almost every home was a centre of folk
materialistic direction education has culture, music and dance. Children received
taken. Dehradun is fortunate in having one this living tradition from their elders in joint
such unique institution that incorporates families. Many went on to join the various
this culture in its curriculum - Nanhi streams of classical music and dance, and
Dunya, ‘The International (Intercultural) most were familiar with the folk customs
Movement of Children and their Friends'. It of their family background. Unfortunately,
is now celebrating its 75 years of existence, with rapid social change associated with
continuing down a path of integrated urbanisation, and adoption of the nuclear
education laid by its founder, Prof Lekh family norm, this inter-generational transfer
Raj Ulfat, and his wife, H Sadhana Ulfat. has greatly shrunk.
The present day inheritors of this onerous
The celebrations of Indian festivals
responsibility are their offspring, Kiran Ulfat
that take place at Nanhi Dunya are a reminder
Goyal and Alok Ulfat.
of how elegant and graceful these used
Nanhi Dunya strives to integrate the to be - In contrast to the commercialised,
differently-abled and the less privileged into event managed versions of the present. It
mainstream education. The well-known is no surprise, therefore, that the influence
Alok Ulfat has added a heavy dose of theatre of Nanhi Dunya has spread to many foreign
activism, which has produced a large number lands. Citizens of these nations visit to savour
of successful directors, actors, writers and the flavour of a composite culture, and learn
activists, who have gone on to contribute in the nuances of teaching and learning in 'Nanhi
multiple ways to the performing arts. Helmed Dunya's many centres scattered around the
adeptly by Kiran Ulfat Goyal, the movement Doon Valley. More power to this movement,
constantly reminds visitors of the lived and may It go on to celebrate its centenary,
tradition of culture that produces creative with Its usual enthusiasm. !!
human beings.

Satish Sharma, Publisher and Editor, Garhwal Post, November 15, 2021

170
 Jill Christie
U N I T E D K I N G D O M

I have known Nanhi Dunya for many years and much enjoyed teaching senior
students. The atmosphere created by the dedicated staff and children is always cheerful,
loving and creative. I was so impressed by the liberal attention given to arts subjects in
particular; music, dance, drama and of course, painting and drawing. These subjects, which
I believe are crucial to the fullest development of the child, were a delight to witness and
a joy to all concerned. They are too often neglected in educational institutions all around
the world, (including my country of Great Britain) and I congratulate Nanhi Dunya for
encouraging the children. I support two pupils at the school and have found it extremely
worthwhile to do so. Their pictures and photos, together with personal messages that are
forwarded to me, give me great pleasure. I watch the development of "my" two, a brother
and sister, with great interest. Well done Nanhi Dunya, for all the enlightened happiness
that is fostered by your existence, and long may it last.

When I was in my teens I met Habib Tanvir at the Edinburgh Festival and became
very involved in Indian theatre and indeed, all things Indian. I first visited in l960 and
returned thereafter on many happy occasions. I met Alok in 1980s attending one of the
theatre workshops at Bija Vidyapeeth, and swiftly got to know Kiran, Ashu and began to
love Nanhi Dunya and its wonderful work with underprivileged children, which continues
to this day. I much enjoyed my teaching there, and my daughter Anna Tanvir, has over
the years, been greatly involved in music at the school both as performer and teacher. For
both of us, Nanhi Dunya holds a warm and special place in our thoughts and memories, as
a source of inspiration and affection.

Jill Christie

She is an experienced teacher and has been mentoring students in India and the UK. Jill has been a
supportive and caring friend of Nanhi Dunya for nearly 20 years and her wisdom and humour have
helped in the evolution of the movement.

171
172
 RICHARD RAMSBOTHAM
T E A C H E R , W R I T E R & T H E AT R E D I R E C T O R

In my early 20s I once tried to ring Alok in Canada, and mistakenly rang his number in India
instead. His father, Lekh Raj Ulfat answered, and from his tired voice I immediately realised my
error. “Oh dear”, I said, “I was trying to ring Alok in Canada… I hope this isn’t a bad time for you.”
“It’s 3 o’clock in the morning”, he answered. Though I’d never met him I had immense respect for
him and was mortified at what had happened. I can still hear his words as if he was speaking them
now: “You mean to say you were trying to ring Canada and you got India?!!” “Yes”, I said, “I’m
terribly terribly sorry…. please forgive me… its incredibly stupid of me…” and more such hopeless
English apologies.” At which he simply said: “Don’t worry. It’s an honour to know that you’re
thinking of us.”
I’ve never forgotten this – nor ever will. 
Such a spirit its hard to imagine in England – and it's the spirit I’ve always felt breathing
from Nanhi Dunya ever since. I later had the joy to be there, with Alok and Kiran; my daughter
Sophie also spent several months there working with the children and helping with a building
project; and when this true spirit triumphs over the all the ‘lockdowns’ I hope that either I or one
or both of my sons will return to Nanhi Dunya. My elder son Christopher has already been greatly
inspired by Alok by taking part in his online actor training courses. 
So Nanhi Dunya is part of our life – and has been for over 35 years. More than that its a
beacon – that shines out strongest in India of course – but also to thousands of others throughout
the world. 
Its spirit is, I believe, unquenchable – and its a privilege to be able to wish it many
CONGRATULATIONS AND JOYS on its 75TH BIRTHDAY - the length of a full and amazing lifetime!
And as the truths of reincarnation have long been known of in India, I wish Nanhi Dunya many
extraordinary further lives too – as it transforms and metamorphoses and teaches and heals and
changes people’s lives.
In thanks and friendship and joyful wonderment. 

Richard Ramsbotham

Richard Ramsbotham went to Cambridge University (1980-1983) and then Emerson College (1985-6)
where he met Alok. He writes, performs and puts on plays and events. He is the author of 'Who Wrote
Bacon?' and 'An Exact Mystery' and has translated Rudolf Steiner's 4 Mystery Dramas. ('Four Modern
Mystery Dramas' - Rudolf Steiner Press 2023). He is the co- founder of Fourfold Living Arts which links
173
research into pressing social and cultural issues with the performing arts.
 Annie Blampied
E M E R S O N C O L L E G E , E N G L A N D

I met Alok Ulfat in 1987 when we were both students at Emerson College in Forest
Row, Sussex. We were studying Steiner Waldorf Education. Alok was always so full of vitality
and enthusiasm for creative ways of working together. Myself and my fellow students, and the
teachers were all inspired by the stories he told about Nanhi Dunya, an educational movement
his parents founded before India’s Independence, with centres for the most disadvantaged
children of Dehradun. I was touched by Alok's father's vision that without education you cannot
have true freedom. The stories heard from colleagues who visited Nanhi Dunya, over many
years, about the creative and artistic endeavours of Nanhi Dunya became legendary here in
the UK. Alok Ulfat's sister, Kiran Goyal and his niece, Ashu Satvika Goyal also visited us in later
years, sharing their culture, religion, and precious dance and songs from Nanhi Dunya.

It was a pilgrimage for me, finally, to become a guest at Nanhi Dunya, and witness for
myself the inclusive ways of teaching, working with children from all backgrounds and abilities
or differences to learn together. I was a teacher myself and it touched the heart of my own ways
of working. My visit to Nanhi Dunya lives on in my heart with very happy memories.

To all at Nanhi Dunya, my love and blessings are with you all! Congratulations on your
amazing and loving 75 years of wonderful work. To the graduates from Nanhi Dunya, the world
needs your ideals and creative offerings. Go for it!

Annie

Annie Blampied-Radojcin is a One Spirit Interfaith lady Priest/ Minister, with over twenty years'
experience in Steiner Waldorf Education. She is currently the Chair of Trustees of Emerson College where
she met Alok and Kiran many years ago. She is the founder and leader of a training course in spiritual and
emotional support for end-of life care.
www.emerson.org.uk/quietude

174
 Daniele Gaillemin
M ICHAE L HAL L SC HOOL . T EACHER. MENT OR. DIRECTOR - ENGLAND

I remember enjoying visiting Nanhi Dunya and contributing to activities in the school. It
was always so inspiring to work with the children and some teachers. My son Josh also had an
opportunity to do voluntary work at Nanhi Dunya. He also had a wonderful time and made a
strong bond with Alok and Ashu. The relationship of my family and Ulfat family became because
of our common concerns about creative education. Later we welcomed Kiran, Vijay and Ashu to
come and stage Ramayana for class five, which made a memorable Indian evening for Michael Hall
children.

Over the years, Alok assisted in many of my plays at Michael Hall school and continued
the creative work at Nanhi Dunya. I too visited Nanhi Dunya, as much as I could to work with the
children, teachers and aspiring actors of Avikal Theatre Company and Nanhi Dunya Rangshala.

I feel that in the coming years many wonderful friends will continue this warm relationship
between Michael Hall and Nanhi Dunya.

I hope to come and visit you again.

I have you all in my heart, and my love to you all

Daniele Gaillemin

Daniele Gaillemin is a senior teacher at Michael Hall School. She has been directing plays,
cultural events, teaching French, working with music and is fully engaged with the development
of Michael Hall School. She has mentored countless students and is always available for them.
François Gaillemin, her husband and their three children have been great friends of Nanhi Dunya.

175
 Jenny Kenyon
WALES
In January 1979, sponsored by Emerson college where I went
through the Waldorf education training, I arrived in Dehradun to
become one of a long line of foreign volunteers to be inspired by, and
to have their lives changed by volunteering at Nanhi Dunya. I lived
with the family, which also contained two brothers, Baba and deaf and
mute Chungu, two wonderful characters taken in by the Ulfats when
they ran away from enslavement from a buffalo herd owner.

As a foreigner, I couldn’t entirely understand the Indian class system,

but when Mrs Ulfat told me that she chose Mr Ulfat as her husband,
and despite being of a different caste, her parents had simply said
"but we worship Brahmins, we don’t marry them", I realised that the
Ulfats were doing more than educational and social work, they were also breaking barriers and
helping move India into a modern Indian age.

What impressed and inspired me was the dedication of the entire family to work towards
the betterment of the lives of poor children and their education, and the education of children
of disadvantaged by deafness, the health of their families, the protection of young ladies who
had been ejected from their families, and the rescue and care of abandoned little girls who’s
adoption they organised. I was never entirely sure what projects Nanhi Dunya actually ran as Mr
Ulfat had so many ambitions for his social work, I couldn’t tell from what he told me what was
actually happening, and what he dreamt would happen!

I felt that Mrs Ulfat was a true saint, she had a wonderful gift for soothing troubled people,
volunteers, teachers, and children alike. I guessed Nanhi Dunya must be struggling financially
when I noticed her gold bangles disappearing from her arm.

I doubt as a newly trained teacher, that I was able to give to Nanhi Dunya as much as
I received, it was eighteen months of very rich experiences, for which I will always be grateful,
some sublime, and others very difficult, the summer climate for one, (the recent heatwave in
England is nothing!) but then one learns most from living through difficulties.

I realise in retrospect, the work of Nanhi Dunya isn’t only about the education and social
advancement of poor and vulnerable people in India, but also about opening the hearts and
minds of the foreign volunteers who went to live there for a while from many different countries.

It’s good to see Kiran and Alok carrying on the work of their parents, and even the third
generation Satvika is involved.

Love

Jenny

Jenny Kenyon completed her teacher training at Emerson College followed by a year at Nanhi Dunya
schools. Jenny a Buddhist practitioner and spiritual seeker works for social transformation through
various activities and initiatives. Through her love for India, she has a made a home in many hearts.

176
 S h r i R A G H U B I R YA D AV
ACTOR, SINGER & COMPOSER

okg jh uUgh a nqfu;k¡] uUgh a gksdj Hkh bruh cM+hA

ftanxh Hkj ftl Q़ tk़ dh ryk'k es a HkVdrk jgk]
lc dqN ;gha fey x;kA vxj bZ ' oj us nwljk tUe fn;k
rks eS a blh uUgh a nqfu;k¡ es a vkuk pkgw¡ xkA

Orondo donex] ujly] ujdV] gj laxkjh ,d gh ck¡l dh fcjknjh dk iks/kk gS ] fiNys rhu lkyks a
ls ryk'k dj jgk Fkk] vkt eq>s uUgh a nqfu;k¡ esa fey x;k] bldh eS a ck¡ljq h cukÅ¡ xk] ftlls #gkfu
vokt feyrh gSA

eq>s vkSj thus dk cgkuk fey x;k] esjs lkjs usd deks aZ dh nqvk
bl uUgh a nqfu;k¡ dks feys ftlus bruk [k़ wclwjr vglkl djk;kA

j?kqchj ;kno
Raghubir Yadav is a one of the finest actors and an authentic singer of Indian Cinema and theatre. An alumni of
National School Drama who has inspired a generation of artists worldwide.

uUgh a nqfu;k¡ ds ckn eq>s fons'k tkus dh t:jr ugha gSA ;gha lc dqN fey x;kA ;kj] nksLr] I;kj]
vady] cwvk] HkS;k vkSj nhfn;k¡A ;gh ftanxh gS eq>s vkSj D;k pkfg,A

vfcj
Abir is a young actor and violinist who came to perform at Nanhi Dunya Rangshala

177 Raghubir Yadav ji, Roshni ji & Abir Kiran ji honouring Roshni ji, Abir & Raghubir Yadav ji after
at Nanhi Dunya the performance of Play 'Piano' at Nanhi Dunya Rangshala
 Smt. Sanjana Kapoor
ACTOR & T H E AT R E PRACTITIONER

I am so glad, I made it to such an inspirational

initiative - Nanhi Dunya and Avikal magical place. I
hope your dreams grow from strength to strength
and inspire many more people. How magical to mix
education and Theatre in such a special way.

All I can say is thank you

The Nanhi Dunya Rangshala and Avikal Theatre company performed at the Prithvi Horniman Circle
in the beginning of this millennium followed by performance at the Prithvi platform and finally
made it inside the most amazing Prithvi Theatre of Mumbai, with Play - Dulaari Dhamaal. Sanjana
Kapoor is the co-founder of Junoon and one of the promoters of Prithvi Theatre. She visited
Nanhi Dunya and interacted with the students and gave a brief workshop for the Rangshala members.
She is compassionate and generously connected with everyone. An elegant relationship with her
has flowered organically over two decades and Nanhi Dunya looks forward to meeting her again.
Sanjana Kapoor is the daughter of Smt. Jennifer Kendal and legendry actor Shri Shashi Kapoor.

Sanjana Kapoor with Kiran Goyal, Satvika, Anuraag Chauhan, Cherry Sharma & children 178
 Archana Puran Singh
A C T O R , B H A R A T

Archana Puran Singh Ayushmaan, Aryaman, Mrs. Puran Singh, Archana, Parmeet & Mr. Sethi

Dear Nanhi Dunya Family,

I am delighted to know that Nanhi Dunya has completed 75 glorious years working for alternative
education, inclusive schooling, youth and women welfare. Providing selfless service to children with
special needs and to the economically deprived section of society is an invaluable task and Nanhi
Dunya Movement's achievements in this sphere have been more than remarkable.

I remember visiting Nanhi Dunya in 1995 with my husband Parmeet, where we saw a wonderful
environmental-theme play called 'Prithvi' which had been acted so very effectively by over 30 actors.
I particularly recall how it had been very imaginatively designed and staged with only candle light,
making it so unique and memorable. I have heard Nanhi Dunya Rangshala continues to create powerful
performances and that there is tremendous potential in the ensemble; I look forward to seeing more
of its wonderful work.

Being an artiste myself and working in the performing arts, I highly commend schools that give children
a fair chance to explore their creative potential. Nanhi Dunya has been a pioneer in artistic education
and I am sure the school community will continue their great work with sustained devotion. I wish you
all strength to achieve your future aims.

Children are our future and I pray that Nanhi Dunya's centres reach out to many more children in our
country and provide them the invaluable opportunities and platforms that they have been doing since
so many decades.

Wishing you all the very best,

Archana Puran Singh

Archana Puran Singh is known as a fine actor in the Hindi cinema with decades of experience and memorable
performances. She is highly regarded for her frequently appearance on TV comedy shows with her
spontaneous comic sense, deep observations and graceful presence. She has wonderful marriage with actor
Parmeet Sethi since 1992 and is a mother of 2 faboulous sons.

179
 Amish Tripathi with Hon. Prime Minister Shri Modi ji Amitabh Bachchan ji with Amish Tripathi

Amish Tripathi is a contemporary Indian author, diplomat and columnist. He is known best for his books Shiva Trilogy
and Ram Chandra Series. His has authored Immortals of Meluha, Secret of the Nagas, Oath of the Vayuputras, Ram: Scion
of Ikshvaku, Sita: Warrior of Mithila, Raavan: Enemy of Aryavarta, War of Lanka, Legend of Suheldev: The King Who
Saved India, Immortal India: Young India, Timeless Civilisation and Dharma: Decoding the Epics for a Meaningful Life.
His contribution in the renaissance of the knowledge of Indic cultural heritage is unmatched.

180
 Diana Dirnberger
A U S T R I A

Heartiest Congratulations to Nanhi Dunya community on the occasion of 'Rainbow

Platinum Jubilee'

I was extremely happy to visit your School and it was heartening to watch children filled
with joy and enthusiasm. I came across the visitors book in which I read the words my
daughter Lisa had written during her visit in 2002, expressing her immense love for Nanhi
Dunya. I was overwhelmed with joy and it was such an exciting moment which even
brought tears to my eyes.

I met few extremely talented children who were self-motivated and had an urge to move
forward in life. The beautiful Kindergarten, which was filled with colors and so much of
creativity everywhere, allowed me to bring out the inner child inside me. I could feel the
warmth in the environment, as Nanhi Dunya was so welcoming and it means no less than
family to me.

While I was visiting India I was so uncertain due to the pandemic, still I planned a sudden
visit to Nanhi Dunya. I landed and met Mrs. Kiran and her husband Vijay ji. They welcomed
me and their great hospitality is just unforgettable. I would cherish the memories I
collected from Nanhi Dunya lifelong.

Lots of love and blessings to Nanhi Dunya

Diana Dirnberger

181
 Smt. Kumkum Chavde
U N I T E D K I N G D O M

There is a saying that goes something like this, “From little acorns mighty oaks grow”. This is certainly
true in Shri Ulfat’s Ji's case.

In a modest house in Dalanwala an idea floated: “look after little children in the daytime and let the
mother work to help with household expenses, something never done before, and call it Nanhi Dunya,
a mini world, an early learning center”. Thank you Ulfat Ji.

This was 75 years ago! Second World War was still on and you created Nanhi Dunya. We celebrate your
work. I am very proud to say that I was also among the early pupils of Nanhi Dunya. Here is for another
75 years and many more Nanhi Dunyas.

I was very delighted to meet Satvika.

Thank you,

love

Kumkum Chavde
Alumani Nanhi Dunya

182
 Sue & Ken Martin
U N I T E D K I N G D O M

We would love to support your souvenir to commemorate 75 years for your wonderful
school and children. We have visited Nanhi Dunya many times and have always enjoyed the
experience. Me and my wife have visited you many times and with group of friends from
Europe and Plymouth university on culture exchange program. Congratulations to all your
lovely teachers and all your support staff.

As part of our work, we have been visiting Bija Vidyapeeth, the organic farm and
international college that was set up by two very famous writers and academics, Vandana Shiva
and Satish Kumar. We met Alok a few times when he organised some very inspiring sessions at
Bija Vidyapeeth and introduced us to Nanhi Dunya. Since then we have been regular visitors to
Nanhi Dunya schools. We hope to see you in 2023.

With much Love and blessings.

Sue and Ken Martin

Ken Martin worked for the University of Plymouth as a lecturer. Later worked as the college principal in the UK.

183
 RICHARD DIMBLEBY
U N I T E D K I N G D O M

Richard planting a tree at Vikas Nagar School

Lovely to hear from you that you are celebrating Rainbow Platinum Jubilee of Nanhi
Dunya. I am very happy to send a message. Congratulations on your 75 years of enabling
so many children to develop their potential. Your commitment to helping young people is
undiminished. I know you and your colleagues’ energy to make such a difference is a special
gift. Look forward to the next 75 years!

We often think of Nanhi Dunya and loved coming there, meeting children and seeing all
the wonderful work you are doing.

Look forward to the next 75 years!

Gill & Richard Dimbleby

Richard was a lecturer in English and Communication, then a college Principal and Gill was a teacher of
French and Spanish.

Lesley Boocock
T H E N E T H E R L A N D S
"Hello everyone from Nanhi Dunya, What a wonderful moment…!
75th anniversary! Congratulations! Well done! Here is to the next
75-years. I feel fortunate that I have volunteered in Nanhi Dunya in
May 1978. It inspired me to follow diverse traditions and cultures.

In gratitude and appreciation,

Secr. United Religions Initiatiives Netherlands,

Lesley Boocock Global Trustee URI Multiregion
 Michael Melchior
SWITZERLAND

Michael Michael, Helena, Clara & Alok Michael & Daniela

Dear friends, here are my warmest and most beloved congratulations!

In 1985 at Emerson College in East Sussex, England, I met a young Indian fellow who
shared with me courses, housing and the love for Francis Edmunds, founder and great lecturer
of this college which is based on Rudolf Steiner's Waldorf Education. Mr. Edmunds had been a
good friend of Prof. Ulfat, the founder of your wonderful place. And the Indian co-student was
Alok Ulfat, Prof. Ulfat‘s son.

For three great years Alok and I had shared so much together, so many experiences, a Real
brotherhood. And I started to become a part of you, Nanhi Dunya, this wonderful place in India,
adoring your beauty and your striving for a united human world. But it took me almost another
20 years to experience you in reality.

For the birth of Alok‘s son I finally visited this wonderful place, experiencing a great and
incredible welcome. I saw the fantastic work of your staff and was impressed by the diversity of
the children, the teaching methods and the successes by watching a great play performed by all
students. It all appeared to me very modern, very humble, very rooted. Some years ago Alok
came to Zurich in Switzerland to visit me and my big and fully equipped school. He worked with
my teenage students, showing them the amazing life of Nanhi Dunya, the wonderful grace of your
work there and your challenging struggle with daily survival.

Nanhi Dunya, I love you, and I also give my deepest love to Alok, my brother. Wishing all
the best to friends living and working for this very inspiring place. Have a great celebration of
your Platinum Jubilee and may the light and the shelter of all the Gods be with you,

Michael Melchior

Michael Melchior graduated as a teacher from Emerson College and has been committed to
education, human development and special education. He lives with Daniela in Zurich.

185
 Svenja Büntjen
S P A I N

Dearest community of Nanhi Dunya

My deepest respect and warmest congratulations on Nanhi Dunya's special jubilee. My personal
experiences have taught me how difficult, but at the same how rewarding it is, to build and to maintain a
school community.

Nanhi Dunya offers to all children a place where they can feel safe, can develop according to their own
needs, and for many, it is simply a home. Everyone involved, working, visiting or just listening to the story
of Nanhi Dunya has the opportunity to learn and grow. Nanhi Dunya offers a lot of wisdom, an education
for life, and tools for personal development. Nanhi Dunya further needs strong freinds to support and give
fresh directions, to maintain and transform ideas and to bring warmth into the world.

I met Alok at Emerson College, England, when both of us were enthusiastic students of Education course
and felt ready to change the world. Together we toured through Germany giving lectures for Nanhi Dunya.
We slept on overcrowded train floors, on top of huge backpacks filled with Indian products for sale.

Later, I also had the opportunity to work in Nanhi Dunya and to experience its realty. I was young and full
of ideas. I remember due to limited space sometimes I slept in one of the classrooms. Of course it had to
happen that one morning I woke up late surrounded by a huge group of young children staring at me in
my pyjamas. This memory should be a vital one for me later in my life as I had learnt in Nanhi Dunya there
is no such a thing as a private and non private life. Both lives are components of only one life. Today, I
smile on many old images and memories and Iam also filled with contentment that the flame of that time
has not vanished. My longtime friendship with Alok and his family as well as my time in Nanhi Dunya have
been important doors on my path.

Nanhi Dunya is a place that serves humanity, that allows children to be children and most of all it has
the beauty and power to connect people, their ideas and visions. In this regard it has been a bridge for
many years to many people. Respect to the founding family, to all the loyal people that have supported
the project over many years and to all those who in the future will do so. My best wishes for the future
endeavours,

Svenja Büntjen

Svenja Büntjen studied at and graduated from Emerson College and Freie Hochschule Goetheanum, she is a
former Waldorf teacher and a founding member of the KATÙ Waldorf School in Costa Rica. She is currently
working in teacher formations as an advisor and most of her time is dedicated to KATÙ.
 Nana Göebel
F R E U N D E D E R E R Z I E H U N G S K U N S T
R U D O L F S T E I N E R S

Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat and his wife Sadhana Ulfat established the chain of Nanhi Dunya (Little World)
Schools in Dehra Dun in 1946, in the famous educational Doon Valley of Garhwal Mountains at the
foothills of Himalayas. They developed interest in Rudolf Steiner modern and at the same time
spiritual pedagogy, in the middle of the last century.

To this day, Nanhi Dunya schools are recognised for the inclusive education, engaging children with
special needs with otherly abled children. Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat came to know about Waldorf Education
more intimately after studying Waldorf Education for a whole year at Emerson College in the UK in
1967/68 and followed by his wife Sadhana Ulfat. After their studies in England, Lekh Raj Ulfat and
his wife Sadhana expanded the Nanhi Dunya schools by introducing Steiner’s impulse in school life.
At that time, Nanhi Dunya School was the only school in India to integrate elements of Waldorf
Education.

We admire that Nanhi Dunya has been addressing the social challenges in India in the field of
education for 75 years and has made a genuine contribution to bridging the social life of the society.
We wish Nanhi Dunya a successful and bright future.

Nana Göebel

1955, Waldorf school Pforzheim, 1974-79 study of classical archaeology, Egyptology and ancient history. In 1976 she helped
found the Friends of Waldorf Education and has been serving on the board since 1978. 1979-83 international youth work
at the Goetheanum; Since 1996, executive board member of the Friends of Waldorf Education. Since 2008 she has been a
member of Hague Circle International Council for Steiner Waldorf Education. Nana Goebel continues her highly valuable
work with utmost sincerity and commitment and is a close friend of the Nanhi Dunya Movement.

187
 Christine Hebbert
T H E N E T H E R L A N D S

Dear Kiran,.

I remember you and Alok and your parents. The last time I saw you was in England, when you were
at Emerson for studies. I have happy memories of the time I and Daan Van Bemmelen spent in
Nanhi Dunya. I am sure your parents must be very happy that you are now running Nanhi Dunya
and its activities. Nanhi Dunya is their the creation of their whole life.

Herewith, I send you my congratulations for your 'Rainbow Platinum Jubilee ‘many good wishes
and blessings. In 1969 I spent engaging time in Nanhi Dunya, and I got to know Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat
and Smt. Sadhna Ulfat very well. I hold dear memories of these two very special people. Thanks to
them Nanhi Dunya came into being. May Nanhi Dunya prospers and grows further as it journeys
into the future..

With warm greetings.

Christine Hebert
Holand

188
 COL. NEERAJ MEHRA

Dear Nanhi Dunya Community and Satvika,,

It’s a great feeling that Nanhi Dunya “The International Movement of Children & their Friends’’ is
celebrating its Rainbow Platinum Jubilee.

It appears to be only yesterday, that I sat as a 2 year old toddler, at the feet of the legendary
storyteller Late Professor Lekh Raj Ulfat, mesmerized by the wonderful stories he would tell
us. Little did I realize that his stories not only taught me Indian values but also awakened my
imagination.

How time flies! Today his daughter and granddaughter are taking his legacy ahead.

I also had the opportunity to interact with the inmates of this wonderful organization during my
stay at the Indian Military Academy in 1977 -78, wherein I visited Nanhi Dunya every Sunday. I have
some very fond memories of my time spent with Ulfat ji, Sadhna ji, Kiran and, last but not the least,
the adorable brothers Chungu and Baba. May their community flourish.

I wish and pray to the Almighty that this organization grows from strength to strength.

Jai Hind

Col. Neeraj Mehra (Retd)

Nanhi Dunya Alumni

Alumni of IMA , Dehradun.Commissioned in The GRENADIERS 1978. Served in Siachen 1984. Alumini
of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington (1988-89). Served in UN Mission in Cambodia as a Military
Observer.1992-93. Served in Counter Insurgency Areas ( 4 tenures ). Awarded Chief of Army Staff
Commendation Card for operations in Kupwara (1994). Commanded an Infantry Battalion in Operation Vijay
( Kargil War ) at Yaldor. Later, commanded the unit at Kargil.

189
 C O L . S A N J AY A G A R WA L , S M ( R T D . )

I remember coming to Nanhi Dunya, on a very early

morning on 2nd October 1987. I came to join the lovely community
of children on a walk to see the sunrise. I being a friend of Alok
became a part of many activities that took place in the centers.
It was immense learning experience while growing up around
Nanhi Dunya. Every time we walked in Nanhi Dunya we were
met with joyful Lekh Raj Ulfat ji, who would say something very
deep and that made a huge impact on me. Sadhana Maa’s stories
and meals were simple but very nourishing. Kiran didi’s singing
and performances by her troop, during festivals especially Holi
vtrue selves. Once in the quest of exploring ourselves Alok and I
shaved our heads to experience monkhood.

Nanhi Dunya has always been a home for many. It gave

us opportunities to meet friends from all over the world, giving us cross culture experience and
broadening our perspectives. Alok and I grew up together and when he went to study at Emerson
College England, my roads also opened to join him there, but my destiny took me to serve the nation
and I joined the Army.

Now when I look back, I see a wonderful childhood and a youth which was fully engaged in
many social activities and adventures. Alok has been sharing with me his experiences and plans for
Nanhi Dunya and we have spent countless hours reflecting on its development.

My wife Vandana is a teacher at the British School and on behalf of the school community she
would gift stationary, story books and colors for Nanhi Dunya children. We always feel great to humbly
contribute.

Nanhi Dunya enables children and adults from challenged circumstances to become self-reliant
and to live a wholistic life. Seventy-five years have been meaningful. It is time to reconnect and pay
back to Nanhi Dunya community. Hope many friends will step forward to support the cause of child
welfare.

Jai Hind

Col Sanjay Agarwal

Col Sanjay Agarwal has served the Indian Army for over 30 years. Received Gallantry award in 1993. Commended
for distinguish service having led and scaled the mountain expedition in Kinnaur 22.222 ft. He has done para
jumps and cycling as a young boy. He was also awarded Governors Gold medal in 1985 for being the best NCC
cadet, in UP State.

190
 DR. ATUL SHARMA
dfo] ofj"B y [s kd] funs'Z kd & jaxeap] LoIu –"Vk

brus lgt Fks] nk'kZfud ys[kjkt mYQ+ r

ckr lu ~ 1960 dh jgh gk x s hA gekj s ?kj ,d fojkV O;fäRo vk;sA ge mu
nk'kZfud O;fäRo dk s mYQ+r pkpk dgr s gh ugh ekur s Hkh Fk sA firk th dh otg
l s ;g lkfgR; vk jS lkekftd dk;ksZ a dk ds Uæ ekuk tkrk FkkA gekj s firk th
çfl) Lora=rk lsukuh ,oa fgUnh dh jk"V hª ; /kkjk ds çe [q k dfo FksA gekjk ?kj
Vhu dh Nr dk Fkk vkSj yku es a ctjh fcNh jgrh FkhA ogha ew< +k vkSj pkjikbZ
ij mYQ+r pkpk th ls firk th dh yEch ppkZ gksrh FkhA eksVs Ýs e dk p'ek]
yEck dq rkZ iktkek igus vkSj vis{kk—r yEcs ckyks ckys mYQ+r pkpk th cgqr
vkdf"kZr djrs Fks ge cPpk s a dks] ckrs xEHkhj gksrh vkSj chp chp es a gels Hkh
ppkZ gks tkrh vkSj os gedks cPpks a dh dfork;s a lqukrsA

;s nksuks HkkbZ nwu ?kkVh dh igpku jgs gSAa lqcg ls 'kke ogh xqtjrh] D;ksfa d ?kj ij çeq[k yksx vkrs gh jgrsA
os vDlj ;s laLej.k lqukrsA ,d lqcg os vk;s] fnu p<+ rs lkFk gh ,d ds ckn ,d gfLr;ka vkus yxhA rks igys
mu nksuks HkkbZ;ks a ds ifjfpr yksxks a es a Økafrdkjh fojs æa ikaMs th vk;s] mUgs a ge ekSlk th dgrs FksA fQj flyflyk
'k :
q gks x;kA cæhijq ls rkÅ th pkS/kjh lR;sUæ flga vk x;sA vkSj fQj vk;s jktusrk egkohj R;kxh vkSj ujnso
'kkL=h th vkSj ekLVj jke Lo:i th vkSj rks vkSj 'kkafr çiUu 'kekZ th vkSj ifji.w kkZuan iSU;w yh th lfPpnkuUn
iSU;w yh th ukjk;.k nÙk Ma xoky th vkSj ,sls cgq r ls yksx tks nu w ?kkVh dh uho gSA vc mUgs a u;h ih<+h dks
tkuuk viuh uho dks tkuuk gksxkA

mYQ+ r pkpk th dks fpark gks x;h dh NksVs ls dejs es a njh fcNkdj cSB rks tk;sxs ij Hkks tu dh O;oLFkk dS ls
gksxh\ os gekjh vEek th ds ikl igq¡ps vkSj fpark O;ä dhA ogka rkbZ th yTtk jkuh pkS/kjh vkSj ekSlh th
vYdk ikaMs Hkks tu çca/ku es a yxh a FkhA ehfV x
a dk lapkyu firk th us fd;k vkSj eq[; oäk Fks & uUgh nqfu;k
vkUnksyu ds çoZrd Jh ys[kjkt mYQ+r thA mUgksua s tks ckr dgh Fkh og vkt Hkh lcls T;knk lkef;d gSA mUgksua s
dgk Fkk fd &
"cM+h e'khu çxfr dk iSekuk ugha gS] iSekuk gS fd bekjrs a ugh a bUlku cus "A
mUgks ua s esjs firk th Jhjke 'kekZ çs e th dh çfl) dfork Hkh luq k;h]

"fctyh irq yh ?kjks cka/k ugjks a dh gh fxurh gS

cuk dgk¡ bUlku crk nks dksbZ ;g fourh gSA "

vkt vxj mudh ckr lquh vkSj ekuh tkrh rks le; jgus yk;d cu tkrkA eq>s rks yxrk gS fd ;s nksuks HkkbZ
;qx–"Vk Fks D;k\

çLrqr gS ,d vkSj laLej.k tks iqjkus nwu dh igpku gSA ,d dfo xks"Bh gbq Z mles a vkj ds LVqfM;ks ds czge nso
Jhjke 'kekZ çse] dfo nsojkt fnus'k] 'ksj tax xxZ ds lkFk mYQ+r th us Hkh dfork ikB fd;k FkkA vkSj bldh
v/;{krk dh Fkh] egkiafMr jkgqy lka—R;k;u th usA ;s ,sfrgkfld laLej.k gekjs ;gka dk gSA

191
mYQ+r pkpkth ls ge cPpks a dk ikfjokfjd lac/a k jgk gSA oä cnyk ij lac/a k dh xekZ gV oSl h gh gS vkt HkhA
lk/kuk th] vEek th ¼ Jherh jek 'kekZ ½ ds gj lq[k n[k q es a [kMh jgh a gSA gekjh vEek th tc 84 cjl dh
Fkh] vyksd ds fookg ij vkf'kokZ n ns us igq¡phA mUgksua s dgk fd mYQ+r ls esj h dqVcq ankjh jgh gSA os cksyh uktqd
gksus ij Hkh eS a tkÅax h t:jA vkyksd HkkbZ us ogh viukiu fn;k ftls oks lcls ckaV rh jgh aA

vc le; cnyk ij laLdkj ugh a cny s vkSj eq>s xoZ gS fd ;g laLdkj mYQ+r pkpk ds ;'kLoh iq=] vkyksd
mYQ+r HkkbZ es a fn[kkbZ nsrk jgk gSA ogh tquwu ogh Qk;jA ogh nk'kZ fud eksfVosV jA cPpks a ds lkFk fFk;sV j dk xEHkhj
dke mUgksua s fd;k gSA ,d ckj muds ekS fyd dk;Z dk çn'kZu xka/kh ikdZ nsgjknwu es a gqvk vkSj vkyksd ds dgus ij
eSua s viuk tu xhr ;qokvks a ds lkFk xk;k "vc rks lM+dks a ij vkvks" rks vkyks d dk ikjn'khZ eu f[ky mBkA ;gh
tquwu gS fdju nhnh esAa uUgh a nqfu;k esjk viuk gS vkSj vkidk HkhA D;ks fa d mldh uhao cgqr etcwr gSA uho gS
'iwT;' ys[kjkt mYQ+r th] lk/kuk ek¡ o muds vusd lkFkhA

uUgh a nqfu;k vkUnksyu ftankckn

tkxks js
tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js

iwjc ls mxrh gS fdj.kksa dh [ksrh

lksrs gq, dks tks nsrh pqukSrh
lks;k lks [kks;k js tkxk lks ik;k js
thrk ogh nko ftluss yxk;k js

vks js HkS;k jkr x;h] R;kxks js fuaæk Hkksj HkbZ & 2

tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js

thou dh ygjks a es meaxsa epyrh

thou ds xhrks a es a >a>kf;;k¡ pyrh
thrk oksfg ftlus ru eu yxk;k js
esgur ls ?kj es a lksuk mxk;k js

vks js HkS;k jkr x;h] R;kxks js fuaæk Hkksj HkbZ & 2

tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js] tkxks js tkxks js tkxks js

uUgha nqfu;k vkUnksyu ds çorZd 'iwT ;' ys[kjkt
mYQ+r th vkSj Lora=rk laxzke lsukuh o jk"Vª
/kkjk ds çeq[k dfo Jh Jhjke 'kekZ 'çse ' ,d ¼vrqy th ds lfUu);k esa odZ'k‚i es a rS;kj fd;k x;k tu xhr½
uUgha nqfu;k nsgjknwu ds okf"kZd mRlo es a nksuks
HkkbZA QksVks yxHkx 65 o"kZ iwoZ dh gSA

192
193
 Shri SHANTI SWAROOP PRADHAN
E D U C A T I O N I S T

नन्हीं दुिनया की हीरक जयंती के अवसर पर शुभ संदेश

नन्हीं दुिनया दो ऐसे शब्द हैं जो मन में कोमलता, िनमर्लता और शीतलता का अनुभव देते हैं। िनश्चय ही इस नन्हीं दुिनया के प्रणेता
स्वगीर्य लेखराज उल्फत जी के हृदय में नन्हीं दुिनया के नन्हें बच्चों ने अपनी िनश्छल हंसी द्वारा इसका अनुभव कराया होगा। पिरणाम स्वरूप वषर्
1946 में उन्होंने इस बिगया की रचना कर डाली। आधे अधूरे रंग िबरंगे फूलों को अलग-अलग स्थानों से लाकर उनकी पत्विरत कर उनको पूणर्ता
प्रदान कर अपनी तपस्या एवं साधना द्वारा एक हँ सती िखलिखलाती बिगया का िनमार्ण िकया और नाम का िदया नन्हीं दुिनया

उस तपस्वी से मेरा साक्षात्कार वषर् 1984 में हुआ यद्यिप यह पिरचय पािरवािरक संबंधों के रूप में हुआ था, परंतु संबंधों का यह रूप
कब एक िवचारक और अनुयायी के रूप में बदल गया पता ही नहीं चला। उल्फत जी से जब भी अवसर िमला िभवषयों पर चचार् होती रही।
उनकी वाणी में जहाँ एक ओर शब्दों की िमठास होती, वहीं दू सरी ओर िवचारों की व्यावहािरकता भी पिरलिक्षत होती थी।

उल्फत जी के आचरण लोगों के साथ व्यवहार बच्चों के साथ खेलकूद उनके पहनावे और खानपान में एक बैरागी फक्कड़पन साफ
झलकता था। परंतु िकसी िवषय पर चचार् के समय वाणी को शब्द िमलते तो लगता मानी जाती गंगा के रूप में यह रही हो।

नन्हीं दुिनया इस वषर् 25 वी वषर्गाँठ मना रही है। यह जानकर हृदय में प्रसनता है तो थोड़ा आयर् भी प्रसन्नता इसिलए िक एक तपस्वी
की तपस्या सपन्न हो रही है और आवषर् इसिलए िक इस आपाधापी के युग में स्वाथर्, ईष्यार्, द्वे ष और राजनीितक वैमनस्यता का बोलबाला है।
जहाँ धन का मानवीय मूल्यों से अिधक महत्व हो चुका है, वहाँ त्याग पर आधािरत कोई सामािजक संस्था कैसे जीिवत रह सकती है? कैसे
सामािजक उत्थान में कायर्रत हो आगे बढ़ सकती है। इसका नन्हीं दुिनया एक साक्षात उदाहरण है। संस्कारों की वह शिक्त ही उत्ती धनाजी की
न दुिनया को आज तक सिक्रय और जीिवत रख सकी है और मुझे पूरी आया है िक नहीं दुिनया पिरवार एवम् बच्चों के िहतैिषयों के संरक्षण में
यह आं दोलन आगे आने वाले अनेक वषोर्ं तक िलहा से आगे बढ़ता रहेगा। मुझे पूणर् िवश्वास है िक श्रीमती िकन जो के सािन्नध्य में आप सभी
वषोर्ं वषर् तक नन्हीं दुिनया की वषर्गाँठ इसी तरह मनाते रहेंगे।

नन्हीं दुिनया के इस पावन अवसर पर कोिट-कोिट शुभकामनाएँ ।

शांितस्वरूप प्रधान
िशक्षािवद्

श्री शांितस्वरूप प्रधान जी एक कुशल कलाकार, िशक्षािवद्, रंगकमीर् व िहं दी भाषा के िवद्वान हैं।
आजीवन बालसेवा व िवकास के िलए समिपर् त रहे हैं।

194
195
 JOGINDER KAUR
EDUCATIONIST AND ALUMNI NANHI DUNYA

Dear Nanhi Duniya family,

Congratulations on the occasion of "Rainbow Platinum Jubilee". May this movement continue to
expand and flourish.Nanhi Dunya is a ray of hope in the lives of underprivileged children. Wishing
you continuous success in the valuable work you do. It is a matter of pride and honour that I have
also been a part of this organisation.

We fondly remember"Ulfatji" "Harbans maa"and "Baba Chungoo". Though they are not with us
physically but they will be in our hearts forever.

Kiran ji has been my dear friend. We have pursued our studies together. She has completely dedi-
cated herself to the cause of Nanhi Dunya. I pray to God to give her immense strength to success-
fully take Nanhi Dunya movement to greater heights.

Joginder Kaur
Educationist and Alumni Nanhi Dunya
Mohali Punjab

196
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Smt Uma Mehrotra Shri Anant Bhatiya Smt & Shri M.C. Gupta
Smt & Shri Rajesh Arora Shri Sudhir Sindhwani Smt & Sardar S P Singh
Grace Ann Peysson Shri Sumit Garg Smt Charu & Shri Piyush Srivastava
Shri Deepam Seth (ADGP) Smt & Shri Ajay Swarup Smt & Shri Praveen Chandok
Shri C. M. Bahugua (DIGP, Retd.) Shri Vibhor Swaroop Shri Raghu Nandan Bahuguna
Shri B S Manral Smt & Shri Deepak Chopra Shri Rajive Singh
Smt Maya Sharma Smt & Shri Randhir Mehta Shri Surya Prakash
Smt Renu Khanna Smt Poonam Johar Shri Vinayak Sharma Swami
Smt & Shri C. L. Arora Smt Deepa Mehrotra Smt Jaya Baloni (Addl.S.P)
Smt & Shri Ashish Jain Smt Megha Ballabh Shri Yogesh Aggarwal
Smt & Shri Deepak Menon Shri Sanjay Jain Smt Geeta Patwal
Shri Raj Mohan Seshamani Shri Sanjay Sethi Smt Pallavi Bhasin
Smt.Yashoda Manral Dr (Smt) Neeru Garg Smt.Vinod Oberoi
Shri Kanwaljeet Singh (Adv) Smt Shikha Pandey Mrs Verginia Westlay
Smt Shweta Chaubey (IPS) Dr Arun Goyal Shri Anil Kumar Sharma (Dy.SP)
Col. Pankej Mehra (Retd.) Dr Himanshu Shekhar Smt & Shri Rakesh Bhatia
Mrs Ericka Lach Dr Kalpana Tripathi Shri Gaurav Laul
Shri Anil K. Jain Smt & Shri S.N. Jindal Smt & Shri S.C.Pahwa
Mr John B.Thomson Smt Jyotsna Sharma Shri Vijay Bohara
Mrs Claudia Jabbusch Smt Kanta Oberoi Shri Vijay Singh
Mrs & Mr Oliver Mehl Smt Manju Pradhan Smt Neeru Tandon
Ms Krol Justyna Smt Indrani Pandhi Shri Rohit Shukla
Dr Lalit Narayan Mishra (PCS) Mr Ram Sharan Sharma (PCS) Smt Asha Srivastawa
Mr Richard Arthur Shri Mannu Ahuja Smt Purnima Thapa
Ms.Elinna Mangantti Shri Amitoj Marwah Smt Urmila Thakur
Smt Mamta Vohra (IPS) Shri Atul Chatterjee Rekha Didi
Mr. William Vennills Shri Nitin Bansal Dr (Smt) Suman Chauhan
Shri Arun Kumar Goyal Shri Anil Dogra Shri & Smt Shubhi Mehrotra
Smt Rachna Pandhi Shri Anuj Rao Dr H. M. Tripathi
Col. S.K. Sarkar Shri Apoorve Nautiyal Dr Arvind Kochar
Shri Shobhit Bhatia Shri Deepak Sharma Shri Sarfaraz Nazir
Dr Rahul Sachan (PCS) Shri Paritosh Kimothi Smt Pushpa Manas
Dr (Smt) Jyoti Srivastava Smt & Dr.Tejasvi Kamra Mahant Anupama Nand Giri
Kunwar Raj Ashtana Smt & Shri Anil Jaggi Smt Kavita Kakkar
Lt. Col. M.S. Kathri (Retd.) Dr Kamal Ghanshala Mrs Nirmaldeep Sahni
Shri Pranav Mahajan (APS, Hon. Shri S Farooq Smt Amardeep Jha
Minister of Tourism) Smt & Shri Ashok Sharma Shri Brij Mohan Pandey
Shri Arvind Pandey (Secy. NHRC) Smt & Shri Kapil Sanghi Ms Charu Chaturvedi
Shri Abhaya Kashyap Smt & Shri Anil Mishra Shri Sameer Shukla

197
Mahant Hitesh Das Shri Anand Swaroop Gupta Shri Sarvesh Mathur C.A.
Smt & Shri T. K. Aggarwal Smt & Shri Sumit Khandelwal Shri Atul Kumar Kulshrestha
Dr Mukesh Joshi Smt Mansi Gupta Shri Anand Swaroop
Smt Geeta Chaudhary Smt Emma and Shri Rupesh Tillu Smt & Shri Ravi Garg
Ms Anu Shree Singh Shri Manyu Deepla Doshi Shri Ashok Kochar
Smt Ira Chauhan Shri Rajiv Kathpalia Ms Diya Saigal
Shruti Panwar Shri Nitin Bansal Ms Vasanti Vasu
Anna Tanvir Shri Raman Rawat Smt Pallavi Dandona
Monisha Dutta Shri Marcin Kmita Shri Rohit Kumar Shukla
Smt & Shri Ashok Mishra Shri Charles Sangeet Shri Sunil Goyal
Smt & Shri Satish Sharma Shri Harshit Gupta Shri Ajay Goyal
Ms Anjali Nauriyal Shri Shubham Sahota Shri Rakesh Chug
Shri Rajendra Negi Swami Sudhir Aman Sindwani Shri Ne-Yo Pharswan
Shri Rakesh Negi Shri Abhinav Bhattacharya Shri Praveen Guruji
Smt Asha Kapoor Shri Parth Joshi Radheyshyam
Ms Anjali Bhatia Shri Shubham Sharma Abhimanyu Kochhar

We fondly remember well wishers and friends of Nanhi Dunya who contributed
emmensly in its devlopment. Today many of them are not physically pesent with us but
inspire us to serve the childern in our endavours.

Prof. Lekh Raj Ulfat Shri Somnaath Kochar Mr Francis Edmunds

Smt Sadhana Ulfat Smt Kaushalya Kochar Mr D. J. Van Bemmelen
Shri Paripurnanand Verma Shri Durga Prasad Agarwal Mr Bernard F. Gescher
Raja Mahendra Pratap Smt and shri Mohan Laal Jain Smt Pryag Devi Kapoor
Avatar Mehar Baba Shri J. B. Singh Smt Shyama Kumari Khan
Shri Om Kapoor Shri J. S. Chawla S. Surinder Singh
Shri S. N. Pant Smt Sudershan Smt Indira Gandhi
Shri Akbar Khan Dr Madan Mohan Luthra Shri Sumed Kumar Gupta
Shri Satya Paul Shri R. M. Saxena Shri Vishnu Narian Mathur
Shri Yashovimlanand Verma Smt Allen Roy Mr Manfred
Shri R K Mehra Dr Nanak Chand Sidhar Dr C. Han
Dr Durga Prasad Pandey Shri K. V. Pathak Ms Eva Cohn
Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Dr R. P. Gupta Mr A. R. Gomes
Smt. Indira Gandhi Shri Chunni Lal & Babu Lal Dr Shiv Prakash Goyal,
Shri. K. C. Mehlotra Shri Diwan Singh Shri Roshan Lal Verma
Shri Radha Raman Shri Bahuguna - Mama ji Shri N. K. Paliwal
Dr D. Paul Chaudhry Shri M. L. Sharma Shri Mohan Lal Sachdeva
Smt Mithlesh Mehra Shri Har Narayan Smt & Shri Satya Pal Singh
Dr. Ajeet Singh “Rishi ji” Shri B. D. Arora Mrs. Mary Rijckenberg
Shri Lala Ram Kishan Shri Jugal Srimal Shri Satish Kala

* We also are very grateful to those we may have missed out.

198
 Joy of volunteering
by Gunjan Sethi

presentation related to youth. I became a

regular volunteer of Nanhi Dunya.

Living the life of Nanhi Dunya for the

past 7 years has been a life-transforming
and redefining experience for me. Specially
through Alok ji's initiatives, I connected
with so many amazing individuals of
different ages and backgrounds, at different
My name is Gunjan Sethi. Born into occasions, and in different environments. I
a lovely Bharatiya family from Punjabi learnt by reflecting on theirs and my own
ethnicity, in New Delhi, I graduated in life, and by many other invisible things.
Fine Arts from Delhi University and have Mostly, I learnt only when I began to
enjoyed abundant possibilities to learn, find within me, a sense of surrender and
create and live full heartedly. ownership of the universe. This truly is a
meditative experience.
I attended Alok Ulfat ji's
play rehearsals in Mumbai in 2004. Being surrounded by the energies
I felt immediately connected with of little children; abled and otherly-abled,
him. Now, when I reflect back at underprivileged children with their eyes
the time that I got in his presence, filled with wonder and joy, making me
I feel it connected me with Nanhi Dunya connect with grace, well-being, peace,
and therefore the essence of Bharat; passion, compassion, celebration and
Bharat (India) that needed to be many other such aspects of good living.
rediscovered and replenished. I realised that it does not need lots of
resources to live joyfully, and this life
Through Alok ji, I learnt about can't be bought by big amounts. I saw that
his parents' persistent efforts towards
social reforms and empowering the
underprivileged. It was amazing. Since
then, we stayed in touch. Life moved on,
and in 2015, after the gap of many years,
surprisingly I got reconnected with Nanhi
Dunya, when Alok ji again involved me in
his projects and activities. Gradually, I felt
I was neck-deep in Nanhi Dunya's work
- specifically digital documentation and Children with new friends
199
sincere efforts, and surrender to innocence making, editing, videography, photo-art,
takes us into great depths within ourselves documentation and journalism, social media
and strengthens our resolve and vision. management, acting & directing in plays and
films, conducting workshops for youth and
Being a volunteer is truly liberating
children.
because then we are not driven by benefits
but only by deep inner commitment Daily chores - cleaning spaces, toilets,
of human will, with a sense serving, managing books and library, cooking and
and without distractions. It’s a great serving, learning new recipes, looking after the
consciousness to be in as soon as you birds, squirrels, animals and the list is endless.
realize that 'other is I'. It is now, when a
Office work - Correspondence, Fundraising,
human being learns to truly own, become
accounts, making project proposals, and more.
a custodian and not just be a compulsive
consumer. Education - Movement classes with special
needs, workshops with children- music, voice,
Nanhi Dunya is a place for those
observation and creating dialogues with
who wish to work with social, cultural,
youth, counselling, conducting cultural events,
economic challenges and become part of
designing, creating the Rang Himalaya Festival
positive solutions, in this ongoing span of
time. Healing and caring - Caring for the ill and
emotionally unwell. Art and painting therapy.
By volunteering at Nanhi Dunya I
discovered the capacity to multitask and I learnt that working with many
many new skills. Here are some of the unexpected things and staying alert and
areas I explored: being spontaneous is the only way one
could survive in Nanhi Dunya.
Social Activities - I learnt to work with diverse
individuals with thinking absolutely different The experience of connecting and
from mine. I made many new friends. Always working with a genuine social initiative
respecting time and being in tune with it, be like Nanhi Dunya is life changing. When I
spontaneous and immediate and be reliable to say genuine, I am referring to generations
the community. committed to a deep single emotion,
putting in sustained effort with minimal
Practical activities- I worked in many areas
resources available, only expecting to
but mainly enjoyed carpentry, electrical
contribute to a better earth to live on for
and plumbing work, studying architecture,
the generations to come. A truly spiritual
digging, gardening, decorating, painting walls,
quest. 'Meditation in action' not only
construction work and fixing roofs etc.
brings in the most peace and satisfaction
Media and communication - Computer but also helps build skills and stories to
aided design, data management, film- live with.

200
 Volunteers

for the activities of Nanhi Dunya Movement

Step One
Tell us about yourself and your wishes in
maximum 1000 words and send along with Festival of Color - Holi

your portrait picture by e-mail to

[email protected]

Step Two
You will hear from us as soon as a voluntary
position is available. We shall explain to you Colors of Diversity

the various tasks. Will give you an idea of what

is expected from you.

A form will be sent to you covering important

questions about yourself. A decision will be
made after an online interview.

For further inquiries e-mail us at

Music of oneness
[email protected]

or WhatsApp or Call -
(+91) 98214 17495 / (+91) 95572 80116

201 Marcin Kmita - Master of volunteering, Nanhi Dunya ambassador in Europe

Engaged in colors

Always recreating

Rang Shakti

Nanhi Dunya building group - 2001

Wish, wonder, surprise 202

Photo - Every year on Nanhi Dunya's Birthday, children enjoy the Sunrise in Prabhat Pheri