PUNE: In a remarkable story of courage, creativity, and empowerment, Vaishnavi Gaikwad, a 15-year-old girl from Burma Shell Basti, took to the stage of TEDx-Kharadi to perform poetry. The poems were co-created by the children of Basti, representing the entire community of children from Basti.
Vaishnavi’s grandmother is among the oldest residents of the basti. Her father works in housekeeping, and her mother is a cook, both striving to give their children a better future through education. A Class 10 student and a bright learner, Vaishnavi dreams of continuing her studies and pursuing dance.
“Today was the first time I stood on such a big stage. I was scared, but I overcame the fear — and for the first time in my life, I feel like I have achieved something,” says Vaishnavi Gaikwad.
Paalvia Foundation, in collaboration with Bhagyashali Bhavishya Shiksha Foundation, has been conducting creative interventions at Burma Shell Basti to empower children through art, music, and storytelling. Over the past year, these sessions have nurtured confidence, creativity, and aspiration among the children.
“Our work with children from bastis and differently-abled homes is not about charity — it’s about opportunity. Art gives them a language to express, to aspire, and to be seen for their potential rather than their circumstances. Vaishnavi’s presence on the TEDx stage is a reflection of that belief — and she will go on to inspire many more girls,” said Vaibhav Paliwal, Founder of Paalvia Foundation.
The children at the basti regularly participate in songwriting sessions led by Subhrojyoti Roy Chaudhuri, a scientist at TCS and musician. These sessions help them articulate their feelings and co-create songs such as “Biryani” and “Soch” — poems that reflect their daily joys, friendships, and the beauty of their surroundings. Both pieces were performed by Vaishnavi, with “Biryani” being her favorite.
Special thanks to Sonali Rasal, landscape architect and poet, for mentoring Vaishnavi’s performance, and to Virendra Nirmalkar, organiser of TEDx-Kharadi, for believing in people and giving them opportunities to be heard.
“Vaishnavi has done wonderfully on the stage. She will lead the community tomorrow, and for sure, she will do wonders in her life. We were glad to have her with us, and we wish her all the best for her future.”– Virendra Nirmalkar, organiser of TEDx-Kharadi