Manav Sadhna serves as a continuous source of inspiration and support for Connect India. CI is fortunate to be hosted by Manav Sadhna for our India based programmes and we have been enriched by the stories and messages that volunteers who serve in India have brought back to share.

The entire EKATVA project and its vision has been initiated and executed by Manav Sadhna and an inspired volunteer.

Ekatva is an experiment to touch the lives and spirit of 16 children, from some of the largest slums of India while inspiring thousands across the world. Through dance, music and art, the children carry with them the messages of Unity, Oneness and Peace. Full details on the background of Ekatva can be found at www.ekatva.org

A heartfelt thanks to each one of you for making this a success in every way possible here in the UK. The Ekatva children and family joined us at Heathrow airport on 19th June and after a short chai break, we began our journey towards the first show city of Leicester, through to Birmingham and thereafter London. All four shows were sold out with standing ovations at each! The journey was, and continues to be, a powerful and heart-warming experience for everyone involved

Strengthening the Ekatva UK visit along every step of the way was a team of dedicated volunteers, without whom Ekatva would not have been possible. From welcoming guests at shows with heart pins, helping set up, preparing food to driving the Ekatva family across several miles to the songs of ‘Swades’ or Adele, the volunteers came from all walks of life to give their time and commitment to making sure that the spirit of Ekatva was kept alive.

The Ekatva children spent time with many people from young children to the elderly. This included team building with children from challenging backgrounds in East London, where despite language differences, they formed new friendships. They watched the Lion King in theatre, strengthening the messages of the “Circle of life” and “Hakuna Matata”, which eventually became the morning wake up call for the children. They even taught students from the Perry Beeches school in Birmingham how to do the traditional Garba dance!

They also took part in farming and planted over 500 root vegetables at the Iskcon Mandir in Watford. Towards the end of their trip the children took part in sessions of creative story telling to reflect on their lives in India and wrote letters to themselves on their future aspirations, that they will open in 6 months time.  As well as the Ekatva family, the UK communities also enjoyed themselves and welcomed Ekatva with open arms:

 ”I had a wonderful evening and was truly touched by the message of the show”

- Hounton and Williams Law firm

“Birmingham show was AMAZING! Well done and thank you! to all the children and volunteers!”

- Facebook Supporter

What next?

As the Ekatva children continue their journeys at school, we endevour to create and continue our own journeys to keep the spirit of Ekatva going. You can share any ideas or suggestions by emailing us at uk@ekatva.org or by posting any messages on the Ekatva Facebook page.  We welcome all ideas that allow us to come together to explore and practice the message of oneness.