I was born in Bhuj - Kutchh Brought up in Rajkot - Gujarat.
I began my career as a social worker in India which involved working for destitute children and women suffering from domestic violence. After working for five years in this field, I moved to London in 1979.
More than two decades I taught ethnic minority pupils including refugees and asylum seekers in greater Manchester. As well as teaching English, Science and Maths to pupils whose English was a second language, my role was to enhance their self respect and confidence which was done by celebrating religious and cultural festivals of all major religions, story telling, drama and dance from different countries. Ialso played an active part in training teachers in acquiring skills in how to welcome, understand and teach ethnic minority children.
My voluntary work began as an adviser at Citizens Advice Bureau in London, followed by a volunteer for Social service department.
As an executive member of Indian Association - Manchester I had opportunities to organise events to celebrate our national, religious and cultural festivals.
We also managed Indian Classical Music Society in Manchester. Presenting world famous artists of vocal, and instrumental music and dance to the people of greater Manchester was a great joy.
Playing my role as an executive member of Faith Network for Manchester gave me lots of opportunities to takepart in discussions in core values of all major religions and community cohesion. I also visited Srebrenica with 20 other women, which was very moving experience. Five awareness sessions were delivered through group presentation,radio talks and school visits.
Sacred Sounds Women’s Choir was formed by the Manchester International Festival in 2013. Women of all faiths and non gathered and sang prayers, chants and songs of various cultures in 11different languages. We gave programmes in Greater Manchester, London and Portugal, we also went to schools to raise awareness in communal and religious harmony.
For last six years I have been involved with Khadi London and Gandhi Foundation in promoting the principle behind Khadi and Gandhian values through various events.