On November 6, 2024, Badlaav Social Reform Foundation completed five years! To celebrate our fifth anniversary, our Team went for a retreat to the serene Zapurza Art Gallery and Museum in Kudje. This milestone wasn’t just a celebration of Badlaav’s accomplishments but a heartfelt reflection on the growth and resilience of the people behind its success.
The day began with energy and enthusiasm as team members gathered from different locations and after a sumptuous breakfast, the group set off to the serene setting of Zapurza.
Exploring Zapurza: Art, Culture, and Inspiration
Nestled amidst lush greenery and overlooking the Khadakwasla backwaters, Zapurza Art Gallery offered a tranquil setting for the day’s activities. The team explored an impressive collection of ancient sarees, jewelry, and artifacts, immersing themselves in the rich heritage on display. Namita beautifully captured this moment: “The museum, surrounded by lush greenery, provided the perfect backdrop for reflection. Meeting inspiring individuals reminded us of the depth and importance of our mission.”
The team had the opportunity to interact with notable individuals like Marathi actress Ila Bhate and Dr. Jyotsna Padalkar, a pediatrician and writer dedicated to social causes.
Our Founder, Radhika, recounts: “Ashwini Didi (our first community mobiliser) took the lead—she approached her with confidence, recognized her work, and requested a photo. But she didn’t stop there. Ashwini introduced herself and proudly shared the work we do at Badlaav SRF, mentioning that we were celebrating five years of making a difference. Watching this unfold from a distance, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and happiness. I couldn’t help but reflect on how much I’ve learned from our mobilizers—their confidence, initiative, and ability to connect with others so effortlessly. It’s inspiring.”
Reflecting on our Journey
A key highlight of the retreat was a reflective activity led by Radhika. Through the metaphor of a river, team members revisited their journeys—navigating challenges, embracing change, and growing stronger with each step.
Nilam shared her takeaway from the exercise: “Whether change-related or personal, we reflected on the obstacles we’ve faced and how we’ve flowed like a river, overcoming difficulties. It reminded me that even our struggles become a part of the story of who we are.”
Each team member shared their growth stories, highlighting how Badlaav had not only impacted the community but also enriched their personal lives.
Creativity and Connection
Art became a powerful tool for expression during a creative drawing session led by Radhika, who is always full of amazing ideas for team activities. As Namita noted, “Each artwork beautifully depicted the personal struggles and triumphs of our team, symbolizing strength and resilience.”
Dance, Laughter, and Lighthearted Moments
In the afternoon, Tanvi brought the team together for a dance movement therapy session that added a playful yet cathartic element to the retreat. Set against the backdrop of nature, the session encouraged the team to release stress and embrace joy.
Nilam humorously reflected on the liveliness Tanvi brought to the day: “The peace didn’t last long because of Tanvi’s dance and our excitement. She was watching each movement closely—who did what, right or wrong!” Nisha added that “(Tanvi) made us all feel childlike, to jump, to dance, to run, to live the child within us!”
A Celebration of Team Spirit
The day concluded with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a sense of accomplishment. Over delicious parathas and soft drinks, the team expressed gratitude for the connections they’d built.
As Tanvi beautifully sums up the significance of the retreat: “It feels good to sometimes pause and look back at the foundations one has been able to lay, to revisit how humble efforts have combined into more tangible, visible shifts in the tide.”
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
The retreat wasn’t just a celebration—it was a reaffirmation of what Badlaav stands for: community, resilience, and transformation.
Tanvi remarked that to her “it feels like the organisation has grown out of its toddler shoes”; as Radhika reflected on Badlaav’s journey so far: “This retreat is a testament to the power of collective effort. Every member of this team is a part of Badlaav’s story, and together, we’ve created ripples of change that continue to grow.”
As the sun set on this milestone celebration, the team left with renewed purpose, strengthened bonds, and a commitment to many more years of creating meaningful impact.
Here’s to the next chapter in Badlaav’s journey!
