Vignettes, diaries, videos, conversations: every entry in this section brings you up-close with us and our work
Our three operating units — Field Institutions, Grants and Universities — function in an integrated manner to fuel the Foundation’s motto of contributing towards a just, equitable, humane and sustainable society. We bring you a collection of narratives from all three units, straight from our people and partners across India. These stories, in the form of videos, animation, interviews and journals, showcase the journey and the Foundation in its various fields of work.
Nakshatragalu EP 22 | Ramanna, Magadi, Ramnagara | Umashankar Periodi
Explore how Ramanna helped students confidently converse in English within three months and how it drew more students to his school.
Nakshatragalu EP 21 | Sudha G, Naubad, Bidar | Umashankar Periodi
Sudha G has worked across three very different schools, each shaping her approach as an educator in unique ways.
Nakshatragalu EP 20 | Jayashree Hiremath, Kembavi, Yadgir | Umashankar Periodi
Jayashree, widely recognised for her Nali Kali classes in Yadgir, Karnataka, places strong emphasis on understanding children, building meaningful relationships with them, and then guiding their learning.
Inside the Folk Music Project | A Creative Classroom Story – Azim Premji School, Barmer
What happens when young students meet musicians of folk tradition? Magic.
Nakshatragalu EP 19 | Gavikumar Kasturi, Koppal | Umashankar Periodi
Explore how Gavikumar was able to develop all the necessary facilities, fight caste barriers and make his school more attractive and welcoming for students, despite the school lacking basic amenities.
Nakshatragalu EP 18 | Sriyamsh, Kamatagi, Hungunda Taluk | Umashankar Periodi
From setting up an excellent library in his school to organising unique programmes like stargazing, demonstration of the election process, and “homework with parents” to involve both parents and community members, listen to Sriyamsh Kolar’s story.
Nakshatragalu EP 17 | Anand Chinnappa, Hadagali Thanda, Vijayapura| Umashankar Periodi
Explore the creative methods introduced by Anand in school to attract students and improve their learning. From dressing as a bear dancer to learning his students’ language to make communication smooth with his students, Anand’s journey of 20 years is inspiring.
Nakshatragalu EP 16 | Rajeshwari Kalmani, Bidar | Umashankar Periodi
A teacher at Chawagi Higher Primary School in Bidar, Rajeshwari was determined to transform the school. She taught creatively, started a library, deve
Nakshatragalu EP 15 | Manjunath H N, Homminala | Umashankar Periodi
In a very short time, explore how with strong processes and infrastructure, Manjunath transformed a below-average school into an excellent performing school.
Winning Ways of Indomitable Teachers
A heartfelt tribute to 12 extraordinary government school teachers from rural Karnataka who have redefined what it means to teach against the odds.
Nakshatragalu EP 14 | Mailarlinga, Nandihalli | Umashankar Periodi
Choosing to live in the same village as the school he worked in allowed Mailarlinga to devote more time to his students. The teachers worked together to get piped water to the school and also helped set up a robust library.
Nakshatragalu EP 13 | Arathi, Devapura| Umashankar Periodi
Through her dedication and innovative approach, Arathi transformed a low-performing school into a vibrant, high-performing institution where children now thrive.
