left-right: Revathy, Sreedevi, Vandana of the Banyan, Surya and Indu |
Revathy, apart from being a brilliant film director and actress, is also actively involved with a number of non-government organizations. Once such gem of an organizations is The Banyan, which reaches out to people with mental illness, rescuing them from the streets of Chennai to care and rehabilitate them. Started almost two decades ago by Vandana Gopikumar and Vaishnavi Jayakumar, this organization is now one of the strongest voices in India supporting the welfare of the mentally ill homeless.
In the summer of 2007, the Banyan was setting up a new center outside Chennai; they hoped this to turn into a venue where visitors (to this highly picturesque area) could purchase handicrafts made by the rehabilitated members and learn about their work. Revathy called us and asked if we would be interested in putting up our products for sale on a profit-sharing basis at this newly developed space. We immediately agreed and Indu got in touch with Vandana and Vaishnavi to work out the details.
Sreedevi, myself and Surya, on the train to Chennai before the event |
Sreedevi, Surya, Revathy and Indu, wearing handwoven saris at the event! |
Revathy and I hang out near our merchandise in the shop space |
A.P.J Abdul Kalam at the venue, amidst the crowds |
Pres. Kalam giving a motivating talk to the crowds at the event |
Surya with the Bollywood movie star Viveik Oberoi |
Unwinding at snack time with the team |
The Kara team with Vaishnavi of the Banyan, second from right, chatting about our work together. |
PS- On a related note, we are always open for ideas to work together, do drop us a line if you have a suggestion!
hi
ReplyDeleteRevathy akka
ur a great person for a world akka.......
with love
BhuvanaRevathy
Hi ,
ReplyDeleterevathy akka....
u r a great person in the world akka.....
i love u so much.....
with love,
BhuvanaRevathy