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Parichay – Pehchaan Khud Se: How One Coach Transforms Lives Through Self-Awareness

In a time of deep transition in my corporate journey, it was Premsai Samanatary who helped me rise. Through her gentle yet firm coaching, I rediscovered my voice, my rhythm, and my purpose. Premsai’s own path—from pain to healing—infuses her work with empathy, depth, and grace. Her signature program Parichay – Pehchaan Khud Se isn’t just coaching; it’s a soulful reconnection with self. This interview is my Guru Dakshina to her—a tribute to a mentor who helped me reclaim my joy, launch The Write Compass, and live a life aligned with creativity, clarity, and conscious choice.

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Why children need mentorship beyond classrooms

Mentorship isn’t just for professionals—it’s something children need too, and much earlier than we think. As a Writing Mentor, I’ve seen how a little nudge, some focused attention, and a safe space to express can do wonders. Children crave individual feedback, not just grades. Through writing, coaching, and art therapy, I help them explore ideas, challenge limiting beliefs, and build emotional resilience. It’s not about rushing—it’s about going deep, slowly and steadily. When we mentor children early, we give them the tools to unlearn, relearn, and grow into confident, thoughtful individuals—ready to face life, not just exams.

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Crafting Change: Truly Tribal’s Inspiring Journey to The Better India & The Logical Indian Recognition

A chance meeting at an award ceremony introduced me to Shweta Menon, founder of Truly Tribal. Her passion for Indian crafts and commitment to supporting rural artisans was inspiring. We connected instantly and later featured her story on The Lifestyle Portal in 2020, celebrating her vision to contemporize Indian handicrafts. Over time, our professional collaboration blossomed into a meaningful friendship. During the pandemic, her online workshops helped revive traditional art forms and supported artisans in need. Seeing Truly Tribal featured on The Better India is a proud moment—and a reminder that purpose, perseverance, and heartfelt work always shine through.

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From Boardroom to Baby Bottles: What ‘Baby Boom’ Teaches Us About Reinventing Success

JC Wiatt’s life was all about power meetings and six-figure deals—until a baby landed in her arms, turning her world upside down. What began as chaos slowly blossomed into clarity. She didn’t just learn to change diapers; she learned to change her life. From boardrooms to baby bottles, JC’s journey reminds us that sometimes the most unexpected detours lead to the most beautiful destinations.

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Creative Writing Mentorship for Kids: How The Write Compass Helps Children Read, Write & Thrive

Many children miss out on age-appropriate mentorship, focused feedback, and creative guidance—something not always feasible for busy parents or teachers. To bridge this gap, I launched the W.I.N.G.S Program, a nurturing space that blends reading, ‘out of the box’ thinking, creative writing backed by NLP, and Art Therapy. Our programs go beyond academics to build problem-solving skills, emotional regulation, and creative expression. Children explore current affairs, sustainability, mental health, and more through small projects, writing and storytelling. It’s not just about learning—it’s about growing with purpose, confidence, and joy.

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Rising Above Challenges with Swami Vivekananda: Stories of Resilience and Courage

Back in 2004, life tested me with cramped hostels, unsupportive flatmates, and nights of Monginis cake and bananas for dinner. Yet, through every struggle, I found solace and strength in the words of Swami Vivekananda. His teachings reminded me that resilience is not about avoiding hardships but about rising above them with courage and dignity. What seemed like lonely nights eventually bloomed into friendships, laughter, and lessons that shaped me for life. Looking back, I see not weakness, but the quiet determination that helped me stand tall — and that continues to guide me today.

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The Avengers Within: Iron (Wo)Man Lessons in Leadership, Mentorship, and Letting Go

We weren’t just a chatbot testing team — we were The Avengers. Each of us brought our own strengths, our own quirks, and somehow, amidst the chaos, we built a system that worked like clockwork. As Iron (Wo)Man, my role was to lead, mentor, and protect, but also to know when to step back. Letting go wasn’t easy, especially when you’ve nurtured a team from scratch. Yet, I learned that true leadership isn’t about holding on — it’s about empowering others to fly on their own, even when the script changes unexpectedly. And yes, we still “miss each other 3000.”

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Smudges, Blots & Breakthroughs: Embracing Mistakes Through Art
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Smudges, Blots & Breakthroughs: Embracing Mistakes Through Art

We often see mistakes as flaws — something to hide, fix, or feel ashamed of. But what if a mistake was simply a new beginning in disguise? As an artist and mentor, I’ve learned that creativity isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence, patience, and possibility. Whether it’s a blot on a painting or a detour in life, mistakes have taught me to pause, reflect, and trust the process. In this piece, I share how art helped me reframe failure, let go of perfectionism, and find joy in the unexpected — both on the canvas and off it.

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When you're not afraid, you attract success. Photo source: IMDb
Essays & Short StoriesFilm, TV, Art & MusicPep Talk
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The Scrapbook of Possibilities: A Film That Makes You Rethink Life

Some movies stay with you, filling you with valuable lessons that you didn’t expect to learn. I almost skipped this Netflix movie ‘The Last Holiday’ (2006), dismissing it as just another regular drama. I’m so glad I gave this movie a chance.
While “The Last Holiday” was a work of fiction, I am sure there will be millions who will resonate with Georgia Byrd. They may go back home and rethink their priorities, whether it’s worth putting away little dreams in a book just because they’re too afraid to give it a try.

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Nurturing talents, one child at a time. Photo credit: Tanya Munshi
EducationEssays & Short StoriesParenting
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Sitare Zameen Pe – Part 2: Nurturing Talents, One Child at a Time

In continuation of my reflections inspired by Sitare Zameen Pe, I’d like to share the incredible journey of Megha Kumbhar, a Mumbai-based special educator with over 20 years of experience. In 2018, Megha approached us to help build her brand — and that’s how ‘Nurturing Talents’ was born. Passionate about teaching children with Down Syndrome, autism, and learning disabilities, Megha’s work is rooted in empathy, creativity, and personalised learning. From one-on-one sessions to individualised education plans, her story is a powerful reminder that inclusive education begins with understanding — and that every child deserves to be taught the way they learn best.

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