The author-narrator, despite being
offered opportunities abroad with highly lucrative and enviable remuneration,
rejected those offers and returned to India, particularly Mumbai, to fulfil her
mission. She is a kind-hearted woman who can hardly tolerate the suffering of
others. Initially, she was joined by two devoted co-workers who were equally
dedicated to the cause from the inception of “Aseema.” They went from door to
door to reach directionless children and provide them with hope for a better
future. The NGO realised that only through the imparting of education and
culture could impoverished children be brought into the mainstream, where a
brighter future awaited them.
Most parents were initially reluctant to
send their children to school, as they wanted their offspring to contribute to
the family income. They had to be persuaded and reassured. Ultimately, “Aseema”
began its journey with no more than ten students, who were taught in a small
makeshift school. The author narrates how difficult it was for the members of
“Aseema” to find a suitable location to establish a well-organised school.
Malnutrition was a major challenge among the children; nevertheless, with
limited resources, the organisation provided bananas and other fruits to the
students. “Aseema” also had to struggle against social problems, encouraging
parents to value education and motivating fathers not to abuse their children
while returning home intoxicated late at night.
Gradually, many organisations and
individuals came forward to support “Aseema,” and the number of teachers
increased. Initially, the teachers worked without salaries, but over time they
began to receive remuneration. The growth of “Aseema” cannot be attributed
solely to the author; rather, it became a flourishing NGO because of the
financial and emotional support of numerous people who wished to see it prosper.
The author describes how the noted actress and philanthropist Tina Ambani
extended financial support to the organisation. She also recounts how the
celebrity later distanced herself from the project and returned to her own
sphere of interests.
“Aseema” began its initial work in Bandra
West, and the author notes that the organisation formally came into existence on
4 November 1995. Its journey of strength, resilience, and positivity has now
spanned nearly thirty years. This is by no means a small achievement. It became
a reality because of dedication, hard work, intelligence, talent, and a deep
commitment to social service, coupled with genuine love for children.
Today, “Aseema” can boast of serving more
than 6,000 students. Many women from the poorer localities of Mumbai, when
approached, openly expressed their desire to educate their children so that they
would not become mere replicas of their parents. The book also contains a
detailed account of Igatpuri, “a small town some sixty miles from Mumbai,” where
the organisation sought to establish a residential school. The matter eventually
reached the courts, and the members of “Aseema” fought a courageous battle
against injustice and illiteracy.
The book under review is essentially a
memoir of an institution—namely, the NGO “Aseema.” The focus remains firmly on
the organisation, and the narrative consistently highlights its struggle for
survival and gradual development. Although numerous books on NGOs are available
both online and offline, what makes the remarkable journey of “Aseema” memorable
are the poignant yet inspiring stories of perseverance that have sustained it
over the years.
This book deserves to be read by every
social worker, teacher, and educationist. It should also be translated into many
other languages so that its inspiring message may illuminate minds and awaken a
renewed commitment to social responsibility and educational empowerment.
Title: Aseema: A Journey Beyond
Boundaries
Author: Dilbur Parakh
Avaialble:
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