“Some of life’s greatest revolutions begin with a child who simply refuses to fit into the mould, and I was one of those children.

From a very young age, I believed that education could be different. I loved playing cricket, climbing trees and discovering the world through experience, but sitting down to memorise lessons and write examinations never worked for me.

I loved playing more than studying. But I often felt that the education system had already decided my future before I even had the chance to discover my strengths.

Fortunately, my family never allowed me to believe that I was incapable. Their encouragement became the foundation on which I built my life.

From struggling through school, I eventually went on to complete a Master’s degree in Literature, proving to myself that learning can take many different paths.

My journey into education began with a small play school when my daughter was around 2.5 years old. Spending 4 years with young children opened my eyes to their incredible intelligence and limitless curiosity.

I realised that my own understanding of education was not enough to nurture their true potential. I wanted to create something better because I never wanted another child to feel the way I once did.

Everything changed when I attended what I thought was an exhibition selling educational materials. Instead, I discovered the Montessori method, and it transformed my understanding of learning forever.

I was fascinated by a curriculum where children could explore independently using self correcting materials without being labelled wrong. It created a safe environment where confidence could grow naturally.

That philosophy inspired me to establish ‘Patasala Montessori School’, where learning is guided by curiosity rather than fear.

Even while training to become a Montessori educator, I was failing exams but my school is one among the premier institutions of the city.

Today, after more than 37 years, I have had the privilege of watching generations of children grow into confident and compassionate individuals.

My greatest lesson has been that every child carries extraordinary potential waiting to be discovered.

Let children play, explore, question and dream. Give them the freedom to become who they are meant to be because when we nurture curiosity instead of fear, we do not just educate them, we shape a brighter future for the world!”