1. Surviving on Dreams
With over 400 yatris and 9000 kms of rail track, the Jagriti Yatra is a peek into
India herself. Traversing through Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka,
Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan and
Gujarat, India comes alive with picturesque views of lakes, paddy fields, rivers,
palm trees and an expanse of other flora and fauna. Through humidity, heat and
cold weather, yatris get a taste of the different climates that prevail across this
vast land. Bus rides into the heartland of India (where several of our role models
work and live) bring the rigours of ordinary life to the fore. For those who have
only read about the real India, this experience is invaluable. For others who are
more comfortable with India’s contradictions, it only serves as a reminder of the
challenges that besiege her. Nevertheless, the agenda of the trip is not to
bemoan our condition: it is to celebrate our uniqueness, our diversity, our
creativity and our successes. And thus, in the true spirit of the Yatra,
constructive engagement becomes a regular feature.
Life on the train is difficult to capture. From brushing through ablutions to
bathing (mundane as it sounds, several new challenges add spice to these
efforts) to group discussions, presentations and creative poetry sessions; from
mellifluous music over the speakerphones to the constant announcements of the
TJY team; from tasty food and unending sessions of chai to the shuttling of
people from bogey to bogey; there is a palpable energy in the air and a range of
activities to follow through on. A moving train thus becomes a fertile ground for
learning,adventure,creativityandfun.
Role model visits are unique to this programme. Each role model presents a
perspective on entrepreneurship and social welfare and shares personal stories
of triumphs and dark nights.
Developmental models no longer remain restricted to theory as on-site visits
allow for experiential learning. Ideas are generated and thrashed out, sometimes
under the shade of a tree, sometimes under the sweltering heat. New faces greet
each other and passions converge to explore exciting possibilities. Life
philosophies are discussed, lessons shared and friendships developed. Slowly
but surely a sense of bonding and community is felt. Unity in diversity becomes
a trait of the yatris and discipline a means of fulfilling the potential that this
journey presents. Without much persuasion or preaching, everyone falls into
line and due to the meticulous planning of the organizers things move like
clockwork. What if India as a community could bond this way? What if a
common agenda could unite us all? If there is one thing the yatra teaches me it
is that no dream is too big. The words of A.P.J Kalam echo in my ears: Dream,
dream dream; convert your dreams into thoughts and thoughts into action.