Date: 10.05.2026
Today’s Bangalore SHG meeting at Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Participants from L to R:
Vidya, Christo, Arjun, Akshay, Anant, Nitesh, Tapan, Vaibhav, Rehman, Sharat (left early) & Amandeep (the cameraman)
We all met at the beautiful Lalbagh on a bright Sunday morning.
The hut area was crowded, so we moved to another peaceful spot where the grass was greener and the surroundings calmer. Until others arrived, we spent time observing the Lemon Scented Gum tree (Corymbia citriodora) and admiring its beauty and age.
As everyone gradually arrived, we sat on the grass and began with five minutes of meditation, observing our mind, body, and the feeling of the grass beneath our feet. Listening to the chirping of birds made the experience even more calming.
We then had a short round of introductions. Arjun sir gave everyone a candy and asked each participant to slowly unwrap and eat it while introducing themselves in a calm and mindful manner. The mint and lemon flavour was refreshing.
After the first round, Sharath began with a prepared speech in the form of a skit. His performance reminded us that the real power and control lie within ourselves, and that true change happens when we learn to manage our own mind rather than trying to control others.
Next, Akshay shared how certain problems of the mind cannot be solved by the mind alone, but by the heart.
Anant spoke about his life experience and how, after a long day, a peaceful evening coffee helps him relax and feel at peace.
Tapan sir shared how TISA has helped him connect better with people in his neighbourhood, workplace, and family.
Vaibhav spoke about being a person of multiple hobbies and his interest in learning musical instruments, Rubik’s Cube, mirror cube, and more.
Christo spoke about thinking through the heart and shared a small story about finally buying a power bank he had resisted purchasing for a long time.
Nitesh spoke about not getting many opportunities to ride vehicles at home, but still trying occasionally. He also shared his fear of speaking openly with family members and even spoke in Bhojpuri so others could hear how it sounds.
Rehman spoke about the movie Tenet and how he watched it five times, searched for explanations on YouTube, and still found it mind-bending.
Vidya madam shared her experience of rewatching Interstellar and how the father-daughter relationship in the movie felt deeply emotional and motivating.
Arjun sir spoke about Karma Yoga and shared a beautiful message inspired by Lord Krishna:
“Do It” — Action (Karma Yoga)
“Have Faith” — Trust the process
“Get It” — The result will follow
At the end, we enjoyed homemade jhal muri (bhadang) and poha chivda together.
After a short debriefing session, we wrapped up with a lovely group photo, with Amandeep as the cameraman. Unfortunately, Sharat anna had left just before the picture was taken.
It was a beautiful experience. One thing I realised is that attending SHG is not only about speaking fluently — it is about accepting ourselves. The real change happens internally and automatically.
Thanks to Vaibhav for reminding me of the points I had missed while writing this report.
Looking forward to next Sunday!
Find your city and join TISA here:
https://stammer.in/tisa-self-help-groups/
