Isai Maiyam Trust WWW.kindereninindia.org
Stichting Isai Maiyam www.kindereninindia.org NL73INGB0004865196 BIC INGBNL2A Krayenhofflaan 154 6541PX Nijmegen Nederland Brigitte Vink Whatsapp +91 805 6482 444 Tekst - Anne Bakker Beeld - Annelore van Herwijnen 2025 © Isai Maiyam
Stop talking Start doing ~ Ivar
Isai Maiyam An introduction Isai Maiyam is an independent NGO entirely powered by private donations and gifts. It is dedicated to supporting the poorest girls and handicapped youngsters in and around the city of Pondicherry, helping them build a brighter future. The organization offers daycare for handicapped children, safe homes for girls, after school tutoring, dance and music classes and financial support for teens pursuing higher education. The name Isai Maiyam means ‘center of music’ in Tamil, and reflects the central role of music in the organization’s mission and activities. This book aims to give an impression of the organization and introduces the people who make Isai Maiyam what it is: from the visionary founder to the kindhearted people that work there and the children who’s lives have been positively affected. Each person has played—and continues to play—a unique role in the success of Isai Maiyam. They are its heart and soul. Each one is important. Village girls at dance class in the Art School 4
6 Playtime for special day care students during the Wednesday outing to the Art School
Isai Maiyam has currently three main activities: Ananda Special Day Care A daycare center in Pondicherry for children and young adults with disabilities. Art School A center near Auroville where village girls attend weekend dance and music classes, as well as tutoring in English and computerskills. Support & Guidance Around 20 boys and girls receive practical and financial support to pursue further education.
Isai Maiyam consists of a Dutch branch and an Indian branch. Stichting Isai Maiyam (2004) in the Netherlands has a three-member board: Brigitte Vink – Chair Ivar Jenten – Treasurer Carmen van der Linden – Secretary Isai Maiyam Trust (2003) in India has two board members: Managing Trustee – Ganesan Trustee – Sagadevan
‘I came to India for Sri Aurobindo. His teachings are still very important to me. Meanwhile I saw there was a lot to do here. I just decided to go ahead and do it...’ ~ Ivar Initiator and driving force It all started with Ivar. Ivar Jenten (1947) first traveled to India in 1975 to join the Auroville project, a universal city-in-the-making. Auroville, named in homage to Sri Aurobindo—a renowned freedom fighter, philosopher, yogi and guru— was founded with the purpose of realizing human unity in diversity. Although Ivar came to Auroville inspired by Sri Aurobindo’s teachings, he was deeply moved by the poverty and struggles of the socially marginalized Dalit communities living around Auroville. Dalit, a term used for ‘untouchables’ and outcasts, refers to those occupying the lowest rung of India’s caste system. With limited resources and immense dedication, Ivar began by setting up several night schools in the Dalit colonies surrounding Auroville. In 1979, he established the first primary school, Isai Ambalam, for local children—a school that continues to function to this day. Working closely with the local communities, Ivar became aware of their daily challenges, including unemployment, alcohol abuse, and the oppression of women. Determined to make a difference, he launched a knitting business that still employs hundreds of women. He also established over a dozen night schools and community centers in the region. In 2002, Ivar founded Isai Maiyam. Initially, its primary focus was to provide a home for children without parental care. However, the Trust has since evolved into a multifaceted organization. At present there is a village Art School that welcomes dozens of children every weekend for lessons in music, dance, computers, and English. And a daycare center for children and youn adults with disabilities a that supports around 50 people daily. Furthermore, every child who has been under Isai Maiyam’s care continues to receive financial and emotional support for their further studies and into adulthood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ivar and his partner in work, Brigitte, founded a unit under Auroville’s Auromitra Trust: Isai Ragam. Isai Ragam promotes educational community centers in the villages surrounding Auroville. Since its inception in 2021, Isai Ragam has established eight vibrant centers that provide afterschool and weekend activities for children aged 6 to 18. These centers aim to enhance children’s cognitive skills while also teaching music and dance. Ivar is known for his great sense of humor. He has a strong bond with the children and loves to joke around with them. Since 1975, Ivar has moved between India and the Netherlands, finally settling in India about 20 years ago. He lives with an Indian family and, in return, supports the education of their daughters. Ivar remains actively involved in all projects. He dedicates his entire Dutch state pension to Isai Ragam and supporting the Dalit ommunity. 10
Ivar 11
‘I love my job even though it’s not always easy. Raising the necessary funds can be stressful. Fortunately, I have good people helping me. I just keep going and trust that everything will continue to work out’ ~ Brigitte Project manager - The glue that holds it all together Brigitte (1980) has been general manager of Isai Maiyam since 2010. Additionally, she is a board member of Isai Ragam and teaches music and English to children in the community centers. Brigitte is also the proud mother of Daniel (2018). Twenty years ago, Brigitte first came to India to volunteer at Isai Maiyam. She already knew Ivar from back home—they were colleagues in disability care—and his enthusiastic stories about Isai Maiyam piqued her curiosity. She had to see it for herself! Brigitte fell in love with the place. For ten years, she returned to Pondicherry annually, staying a little longer each time. In 2009, she decided to quit her job and move to India full time. Since then, she has been managing the day-to-day operations of Isai Maiyam. Brigitte is the heart of the organization. She knows everything that’s going on and she knows everybody personally. She listens, she understands and she finds ways to make things happen. Brigitte is a pillar of strength and a woman with a heart of gold. 12
Brigitte at the Art School 13
‘It is our dream to continue this good work. We are still very eager to support the community and have the youth carry on what we have built’ ~ Ganesan Managing Trustee Isai Maiyam Ganesan (1962) is Managing Trustee of Isai Maiyam. He is married, has two daughters and one grandchild. Ganesan met Ivar in the 1980’s when Ivar helped him set up his leather and handicraft business in Alankuppam. To this day his leather-business is thriving. Twenty some years later, when Ivar wanted to start the Isai Maiyam Trust, Ganesan owned a peace of land and a building in Pondicherry for which he had no need. He sold his allotment to Ivar, who renovated the place and started He started a student house for underprivileged youth, which later grew into a children’s home. In 2005 Ganesan became Managing Trustee of Isai Maiyam. He works mostly in the background. He takes care of official business and is there to help if problems arrise. 14
Ganesan at the Art School 15
‘I have many duties in Isai Maiyam, all equally important. But working with the kids I like best!’ ~ Sagadevan Trustee Isai Maiyam - Manager Art School - Guitar teacher Saga (1986) is trustee and managaer of the Artschool. He is married to Punitha and father of two children. He has been part of Isai Maiyam since he was 15. It all started when, as a young boy, he returned some items that his parents had borrowed for a program. When he arrived, Ivar was giving a guitar lesson, and Saga was immediately captivated—he knew this was what he wanted to do. Gathering all his courage, he asked Ivar if he could take guitar lessons too. Ivar agreed, and that was the beginning of a lifelong connection with the foundation. Saga first studied with Ivar before advancing to lessons with Krishna from Auroville’s Solitude Farm. For years, he moved between Isai Maiyam and Solitude Farm, working at Isai Maiyam’s children’s home, Ananda Special School, and also working on Solitude farm. At the same time, he dedicated himself to studying guitar intensively and eventually earned his diploma as a music teacher. Today, Saga is actively involved with the day to day happenings of Isai Mayam as trustee of the foundation. He helps with paperwork, teaches music at the Art School and also at Auroville’s International School. 16
Saga with his sportbike in front of his house next to trhe Art School 17
‘I have been following Isai Maiyam for many years and witnessed children and adults grow and develop within the foundation, moving toward a meaningful and dignified life. During my holidays, I travel to India to offer support where needed and organize activities. I love experiencing the warmth and joyful spirit of the Indian people’ ~ Carmen Secretary Isai Maiyam Nederland Volunteer since 2010
Ananda Special Day Care Ananda Special School – also known as the Handicap School – is situated on a compound with two buildings, several floors, classrooms, an office, communal rooms, kitchen and toilets. It provides free daycare for 50 children and young adults with mental and/or physical disabilities. In India, these children are often referred to as “special.” Students are welcomed five days a week, from Monday to Friday, and receive loving care from a team of eight dedicated teachers and helpers. Isai Maiyam offers free transportation to and from their homes, along with a daily program that includes classes, music, exercise, yoga, dance, games, and creative workshops. When funding allows, students also receive a free nutritious meal. In 2023, a professional tailoring workshop was introduced to create job opportunities for those who are capable and interested. The students love having a job and earning a little pocketmoney. Their handmade products are available for purchase via the website and Etsy: kindereninindia.org etsy.com/nl/shop/AnandaHandicapIndia Ananda Special Daycare used to serve as a children’s home. Ivar bought it from Ganesan when he started Isai Maiyam. 20
Girlshome in Kootroad When Ivar started Isai Maiyam in 2003, he bought a piece of land with a large house in Pondicherry from Ganesan, who later became the managing director of the trust. The house was renovated, and first used as student house for underprivileged youth. Soon it developped into a children’s home, with about 50 children moving in. For ten years, the children’s home thrived. Those who lived there look back on it as a time of happiness and joy. The house was filled with music and laughter. Since then, much has changed. The Indian government has tightened regulations, prohibiting boys and girls from living together, and many children’s homes have been shut down. In 2016 the girls moved to Kootroad, which had previously been the location of Ananda Special Day Care. Ananda Special Day Care was then relocated to the former Children’s Home in Pondicherry. In 2020 the boys’ home was closed due to corona and new regulations. By now, most of Isai Maiyam’s boys and girls are in college or have graduated. Most have moved back to their families or live independently. Isai Maiyam still follows all children and offer them tuition money, studentloans, hostelrent and emotional support. The girls stay under the care of Isai Maiyam until they complete their studies or get married. The house on Kootroad is currently used as an after-school community center for music and homework lessons. It is Isai Maiyam’s dream to once again provide shelter for young girls. However, at the moment, there are not enough financial resources 23
The Art School Gayatri Art School – often simply called Art School – is a cultural center located on the outskirts of the village of Alankuppam, near Auroville. Every weekend, around 120 children from nearby villages gather here to learn dancing and musical instruments under professional guidance. Additionally, they receive lessons in computer skills and English conversation. There is also plenty of time and space for playing and sports activities. The children come from poor families with limited resources. Therefore, they are also provided with a healthy meal. All activities and facilities at the Art School are completely free of charge, including dance attire. The Art School consists of two buildings with several rooms, toilets, a kitchen, communal rooms, rooftops and a big garden. 24
‘I’m very happy with all that we have acccomplished and all the people we helped. But then again: there is still so much more to do!’ ~ Ivar 27
‘Ivar is a very creative person with an active mind. He came here teaching music, singing and dancing and initiated all kinds of endeavers. Everybody knows him around here, he is a very popular person. He is the founder of everything.’ ~ Ganesan Managing Trustee
Ivar and his endeavers in the ‘70 en ‘80 29
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‘Ivar is like a grandfather to me. And not only to me! The whole village calls him Tata, which means grandfather in Tamil’ ~ Sagadevan Trustee Isai Maiyam - Manager Art School - Guitar teacher 31
‘I feel a deep sense of gratitude that Isai Maiyam has crossed my path—an absolute enrichment of my life. It’s wonderful to be able to make a difference in the lives of children and (disabled) young people in India. ‘ The close-knit community of Isai Maiyam has meant so much to me over the past 19 years. Every time I arrive in Pondy, it feels like coming home! ~ Willem-Jan Former chairman and key supporter Willem-Jan met Ivar through the disability care center where his son was staying. Curious about Ivar’s enthusiastic stories, he decided to see it for himself. Since his first visit to Isai Maiyam in India in 2007, Willem-Jan has become deeply involved with the organization. Not only did his law firm provide longterm financial support through donations, but Willem-Jan also personally contributed to Isai Maiyam’s projects. For many years, he served as the chairman of the Dutch branch of Isai Maiyam, a role in which he was always highly engaged. He knew the staff and children by name, actively helped solve challenges, and traveled to India every year to take part in the daily operations. During his visits, he would sleep on a mat in the Art School. Both his daughters, Carlien en Merel, often accompanied him on these trips. Willem-Jan is now retired and has passed on the chairmanship. 32
Old footage 33
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Old footage - Willem Jan, daughters & children 35
Trust Girls Some girls who grew up in the Children’s Home in Pondi are still under the care of Isai Maiyam. They live nearby with family, in a women’s hostel, or with the Indian family where Ivar lives too. Their studies and dance education are funded by the Trust. They call themselves the ‘Trust Girls.’ In the photo, a few of them: Jeroline (2008) - Starting college Sharmila (2003) Finishing Bachelor of Performing Arts Mani (2004) Finishing Bachelor Nursing Harishma (2006) Second year Bachelor Nursing Muthamei (2006) Second year Bachelor of business administration. 36
In India the relationship between boys and girls is very difficult. In Isai Maiyam Childrenshome it was more relaxed, we learned that boys and girls can be friends, like brothers and sisters. I cherise those memories’ ~ Manimeigalai Trust Girl
‘Isai Maiyam is my home. I feel safe there. For the future i want to focus on a career and independence. My dream is to work abroad’ ~ Muthamei Trust Girl 39
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‘I dont know what I want! But i totally trust Tata Ivar, he knows what is best for me’ ~ Jeroline Trust Girl Jeroline (born in 2008) was five years old when she joined the children’s home of Isai Maiyam. She has no parents, and Ivar is like a (grand)father to her. She lives with Muthamei and Harishma in Ivar’s house. During the COVID pandemic, Jeroline started playing the piano, and it quickly became clear that she has a lot of talent. She now receives intensive piano lessons, and will start college soon. 41
Busdrivers Ramu and Bharatkumar taking rest in between jobs 42
Ananda Special Day Care The Handicap School
‘The handicap School is very special. We don’t just provide regular classes, we also offer music and dance. This is very important. Music touches the heart. ~ Punitha Manager Ananda Special Day Care Center - Music teacher at Isai Ragam 44
Weekly singalong with Brigitte at the Handicap School 45
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‘My life turned very happy after I found Isai Maiyam. The years living in the girlshome were very joyful. Isai Maiyam has been a blessing for me’ ~ Punitha Manager Ananda Special Day Care Center - Music teacher at Isai Ragam Punitha (1988) is married to Sagadevan and mother of two children (8 and 11). She is general manager of Ananda Special Daycare and works as a musicteacher for Isai Ragam community centers. Punitha lives with her family close to the Artschool. Punitha moved in to IM childrenshome when she was seventeen years old. Her parents got divorced and the homesituation was unstable. She was in her final year of highschool and a friend recommended IM. She lived in Isay Maiyam childrenshome for about six year. Living in Isai Maiyam childrenshome, Punitha was introduced to music. She learned to play percussion and wanted to learn more. With support from IM she studied four years of performing arts, followed by a teacher training. During that time Punitha also started working in a special school for disabled children. She loved the work so much, she suggested IM should start a similar school for hanicapped children. And so Ananda Special Daycare came to be! What started in 2010 with just two children, is now a full operating day care school with 48 students and seven teachers. For fifteen years Punitha has been running the school with much love and dedication. Her biggest dream is to be able to conitue for manny more years to come. In Isai Maiyam childrenshome Punitha met Sagadevan, who was living in the boys home. They were but teenagers. They fell in love and twelve years ago they got married. 47
‘I truly love this work! I receive so much affection. The children don’t know lies. They give only love’ ~ Parveen Teacher at Ananda Special School Parveen (1982) is married and has two teenage children. She has been teaching at Isai Maiyam for six years and also takes care of her elderly mother. Parveen studied in Chennai for two years, earning a degree in psychology for individuals with disabilities. Her passion for caring for children with disabilities was inspired by her cousin, who is disabled. She worked at another school for ten years before taking a break to raise her own children. Once her children started school, she returned to work. Parveen teaches Tamil, English, math and yoga, music. 48
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50 Students recieve regular yoga classes at Ananda Special School
Playtime at Ananda Special School 51
‘I love working with the children. We are all very close and the atmosphere is flexible, there is no stress in the workplace’ ~ Chandrakala Teacher at Ananda Special School Chandrakala (1986) is married and has two childen. She works at the Handicap School since 10 years. She organises daily activities and is assistant manager to Punitha. 52
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54 Students recieve a variety of classes like Tamil, English and math at Ananda Special School
‘I am very happy with my job. We recieve a good salary and I love working with and taking care of the children’ ~ Vijyalakshmi Teacher and caretaker at Ananda Special School
56 Some students need help with meals
‘I work in the Handicap School since 14 years. I love taking care of the children’ ~ Jayalakshmi Helper at Ananda Special School 57
‘I love working with the children. I have no children of my own. These are my children!’ ~ Patchiamal Helper at Ananda Special School 58
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‘Because of my health issues, I am allowed to work at my own pace. I’m very grateful’ ~ Shanta Cleaninglady at Ananda Special School
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‘I love my job! Especially working with the children. Everyone at Isai Maiyam feels like family to me’ ~ Ramu Busdriver Ramu (1959) has been working as a bus driver for Isai Maiyam since 2011. He is married, has three children, and four grandchildren. Ramu picks up and drops off children, drives between Pondi and Auroville, and is available for various trips. In his younger years, Ramu worked as an electrician in Auroville. He later moved to Bangalore, where he stayed for ten years before returning to Pondicherry. Through Ganesan, he became involved with Isai Maiyam. In addition to driving the bus, Ramu helps with various maintenance tasks in and around the building. Having a blind daughter himself, he feels a deep connection to people with disabilities and is grateful to serve in this way. 63
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‘I love my job! Especially teaching the children. Everyone at Isai Maiyam feels like family to me’ ~ Manikandan Watchman at Ananda Special School - Ipad/Artteacher Mani (born in 1985) is the watchman at Ananda Special Daycare. He is married and has a daughter. His house is close to the school, and every night, his wife and daughter stay with him there. Since Mani is very creative, he also teaches drawing and helps with graphic design projects for Isai Maiyam. 69
‘While working with the boys in the childrens home in Pondicherry I met Punitha, who lived there for a couple of years. We fell in love and got married in 2013. We are very happy and have two children’ ~ Sagadevan Trustee Isai Maiyam - Manager Art School - Guitar teacher 70
Saga, Punitha and their children en mother (in law) 71
72 Musical performance at Ananda Special School
Dance performace at Ananda Special School 73
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‘We give a lot of support , love and kindness to the children’ ~ Chandrakala Teacher at Ananda Special School
‘I’m very proud of everything I have accomplished. I could not have done it without the support of my Isai Maiyam - family!’ ~ Rajeshwari Student at Ananda Special School Racheswari (1988) was one of the first students at Ananda Special School. When she first joined, she could barely walk or talk due to a severe illness in her youth. However, with the loving care and support of the staff, she began to improve steadily. Today, Racheswari is full of life—she walks, talks, and even dances! Through her work in Ananda’s tailoring workshop, she earns a modest income. 76
Rajeshwari at work in the tailoring workshop at Ananda Special School 77
‘What I like most about Isai Maiyam is that everybody is equal. There is no ego, no politics. Nobody is better then another. The staff and the students, we are all like family’ ~ Punitha Manager Ananda Special Day Care Center - Music teacher at Isai Ragam
‘Music is very important in all my projects. Music promotes cognitive, social and emotional skills in children’ ~ Ivar Initiator and driving force 80
Ivar teaching new songs to the staff at Ananda Special School 81
82 Students from Ananda Special Day Care spent Wednesdays at the Art School
84 Bea and Rajeshwari at the Artschool
‘A friend asked me if I could bring a guitar to India... That’s how I got to know the foundation and Brigitte. By now, we have become good friends, and every year I spend a few weeks helping out’ ~ Bea Volunteer since 2012
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‘It’s amazing to see that children who have so little and have often been through so much, still radiate so much joy and zest for life’ ~ Mirjam & Jelle Mirjam (1982) and Jelle (1973) got to know Isai Maiyam through Willem Jan and first traveled to India about 10 years ago. They wanted to contribute to a good cause and chose Isai Maiyam because it is small and accessible, and because they could directly see how donations and supplies were being used. Since then, they have traveled to India six or seven times. They have gotten to know the children and the people working for Isai Maiyam on a personal level. Mirjam and Jelle also collected (used) laptops and iPads, which are now being used at the Art School and Ananda Special Day Care. 87
The Art School ~ A communitycenter for village girls that offers free music and dance lessons, English and computer classes and homework assistance in weekends. Every Wednesday, the students of Ananda Special Day Care visit the Art School for a day outdoors filled with games and fun.
90 Guitar lesson at the Art School
English conversation made fun with a game 91
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‘Isai Maiyam creates opportunities for poor children. Two of my students went to the UK! I’m a happy man’ ~ Gurumurti Teacher at the Artschool Gurumurti (1978) is married and has one son. He is Computer Expert and teacher at the Art School. Gurumurti first met Ivar as a young boy attending one of his night schools. Now years later, Gurumurti teaches computer skills and English to village children at the Art School and runs an Isai Ragam afterschool ommunity center for local children in his own home. 94
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96 Satya during a dance performace at the The Art School
‘Isay Maiyam is like family to me. They introduced me to music and dance which changed my life!’ ~ Satya Danceteacher at the Artschool Satya (1988) is married and has a 7-yearold son. As a young girl, she attended Isai Ambalam School, the village school founded by Ivar. Every Saturday, she went to the Art School to learn music and dance. Due to poverty and challenges at home, she moved into the Isai Maiyam children’s home in Pondicherry at the age of fifteen, where she lived for ten years. Isai Maiyam supported her training as a lab technician, and she worked in a hospital for several years. However, her true passion was music and dance. Recognizing this, Brigitte arranged for her to receive dance training in Auroville. Today, Satya teaches dance at the Art School and other venues. 97
‘I feel very lucky. I owe everythig to Isai Maiyam. I hope someday I will be able to give back’ ~ Manimaigalai Trust girl and danceteacher Mani (2004) was eight years old when she moved into the Isai Maiyam children’s home. Her younger brother was already living there. After her father passed away, her mother remarried under family pressure. With her new stepfather, the home situation became unstable. Although it was difficult for Mani to leave her mother, she has fond memories of her childhood at Isai Maiyam. It felt like being part of one big family, and she is still in touch with most of the boys and girls she grew up with. Now a young woman, she is studying to become a nurse while living semiindependently at the Art School. Mani is also a professional dancer and teaches dance at the Art School on weekends. Her dream is to one day become fully independent and to be able to support her mother and brother. 98
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100 Dance class at the Art School
Dance class at the Art School 101
‘I love my job. I cook and clean. In the weekends I cook for 50 girls’ ~ Mala Cook and cleaninglady
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Programmes When the opportunity arises, such as when visitors from the Netherlands or other interested guests are present, the students of the Art School put on a performance. It is always an exciting event, prepared with great care and attention. The girls spend hours on their outfits and makeup. They get to show what they have learned, and they do so with great enthusiasm. p 106
108 Girls in line for make-up
Make-up table 109
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Side Activities Isai Maiyam also organizes events in collaboration with others. One example is Women’s Day at the Art School, a day focused on body and menstrual awareness. We organized a lecture for girls from surrounding villages about the female body and distributed free reusable menstrual products.
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‘During COVID, we started the Isai Ragam community centers. Why take on another project? Because these people have so little... There’s still so much to do!’ ~ Brigitte Project manager - Jack of all trades 132
Brigitte, Daniel and their autoriksja 133
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Isai Ragam The Tamil name ‘Isai Ragam’ means ‘Melody of Music’. Isai Ragam is part of Auroville and is run by Ivar and Brigitte. Its mission aligns with their other initiatives: fostering artistic and educational development for underprivileged children. Through multile community centers, Isai Ragam provides village children with access to various forms of art and education. ~ isairagam.org
136 Ruban, Ranjeeta and son
‘Isai Maiyam is everything for us.. Looking after the children makes us very happy’ ~ Ruban & Ranjeeta Managers Isai Ragam community center Ruban (born 1992) runs an Isai Ragam community center from his home. Every day after school and on weekends, 25 girls come to his center for homework assistance, music, dance, and play. Having lost his parents at a young age, Ruban lived in several boys’ homes before joining Isai Maiyam at the age of 13. He is now married to Ranjeeta, and together they have a son. Ranjeeta (born 2001) also lost both her parents as a child and grew up in children’s homes. As a teenager, she came to Isai Maiyam, where she met Ruban, who was then a warden at the boys’ home. In 2022, they got married. Although Ruban is Christian and Ranjeeta is Hindu, this has never been an issue for them. Whether it’s Christmas or Diwali, they celebrate everything together! 137
‘I loved my time living at isai Maiyam Childrens Home. There were no punishments like in the other home I lived, I was free to express my feelings’ ~ Ranjeeta
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‘Why I do this work? It is my duty. It is my sevice!’ ~ Gopi Managers Isai Ragam community center Gopi (born 1980) is married and a father of two. He is an archaeologist who also runs an Isai Ragam community center in the evenings and on weekends, with his wife helping out as well. Gopi has known Ivar since childhood when Ivar would visit to sing songs with the children. The two have collaborated on various projects for years. When Ivar was away, Gopi continued the work voluntarily. Five years ago, Ivar and Gopi built a new night school in Pudupakkam village, right next to Gopi’s house. Over 30 girls come here daily for English and computer classes, homework assistance, and music lessons. There is a separate building for boys. 141
Homework at Isai Ragam’s communitycenter 143
Thank you very much! We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to our work over the past twenty years. In particular, we thank Willem-Jan for his financial contribution, personal commitment, and involvement. We also extend special thanks to Ivar Jenten, the founder of the foundation, for his financial support and inspiration. Private donations: • Willem-Jan van Andel • Ivar Jenten • Mirjam van der Kaaij • Jelle Hofland • Marga en Ubbo IJland • Hasmit Hascor • Marjoleine Keesmaat • E Gotje Keesmaat • Ervan H Keesmaat • Else Loes Pasma • R.Gloudemans • Vaste donateurs Donations from funds and companies: • Wijn & Stael Advocaten • Hebo holding BV • Hascor Metals • Stichting Umoja • (BLOF muziekband) • Stichting Wilde Ganzen • Stichting JAH-JIREH Woonzorg • Stichting Mostert - Van der Meijden • Stichting de Zaaier • Clifford Chance Amsterdam • Guitars Support Children Foundation • Hofstee Stichting • Stichting kinderopvang Dongen • SKG Diac Prot Gem West • De Vetten Holding B.V • Prodebt BV • Liedenbaum TB • Emax BV • TB Auctions Netherlands BV office. • Cargo International B.V. • Noon B.V • Stichting Taka Tuka Foundation • Stichting Triodos Foundation • Achmea Foundation • Stichting Moments of Joy • Stichting NUNC • Willems Koopfonds • Stichting Projecten van tafel ronde (Schenking Ronde tafel) • Maat management • Vereniging pedagogen voor de vrede • HIJS Trein 8.28 • Sint Bonufatiuns school • Stichting Pelgrimshoeve • Share for more Rabobank • Stichting Frangipani • Madurodam steunfonds • Haella stichting • Plan Nederland • Camphill Nederland • Stichting Zonnige jeugd • Stichting Johannesfonds • Kalsbeek college Woerden • Stichting Orion • Cordaid • Stichting Kleding Inzameling Charitatieve Instellingen, KICI • Stichting Nederlands Albert Schweitzer fonds • NTAB Paul Blees • HS Group BV Further special thanks to: • Anne Bakker - Uitgeverij 11 • Annelore van Herwijnen - Fotografie • Erna Braat - WEB FANTASIA • All our volunteers • S.K Saamy for his legal help • Murali for support with legal paperwork and accounting • RSM for Legal advice and annual financial statements Netherlands 145
‘I could not have done much without the help of Brigitte and financial support of Willem-Jan. I am very grateful for that! ~ Ivar
Isai Maiyam is entirely dependent on private donations and gifts. You can donate via this QR code. Your donation is greatly appreciated! 148
Isai Maiyam is volledig afhankelijk van prive donaties en giften. Via deze QR code kunt u doneren. Uw donatie is van harte welkom! 149
CONCEPT & REALIZATION Anne Bakker issuu/uitgeverij11 PHOTOGRAPHY Annelore van Herwijnen annelore.nl 150
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