Age is just a number; it’s the intention and determination that truly define our potential. Meet Akarshana Sathish, a 11-year-old student from Hyderabad Public School in Begumpet, who has shown the world that one’s age should never limit their ability to make a difference.
A Heartwarming Beginning
In 2021, young Akarshana’s journey of compassion began during a visit to the MNJ Cancer Children Hospital with her parents. While providing food to the young patients, she notices their desire for coloring books. This gave her an idea to provide books to those in need.
With determination and support from her community, Akarshana embarked on her mission. She started collecting used books from her neighbors, classmates, and relatives and soon she managed to collect over 5,800 used books.
Libraries for All
Akarshana’s passion and commitment led to the creation of six libraries, each serving different communities. The libraries house a diverse collection of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and general knowledge, available in Hindi, English, and Telugu languages.
The first library found its home at the MNJ Cancer Children Hospital, followed by another at the Sanathnagar Police Station. She extended it to the third library at the Juvenile and Observation Home for Girls in Hyderabad and the fourth at the Gayathri Nagar Association in Borabanda.
Akarshana’s fifth library was established in collaboration with the Coimbatore City Police Street libraries, bringing the joy of reading to even more young hearts. Her sixth library was inaugurated at the Chennai Boys Club in the Nolambur Police Station.
The latest addition to Akarshana’s incredible journey is her seventh library, inaugurated by Minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav at the Government High School in Sanath Nagar. This library boasts a collection of 610 books and is poised to inspire students to read more frequently and expand their knowledge.
Akarshana Sathish’s story reminds us that age is no barrier when it comes to making a positive impact on the world. Her determination and compassion have not only enriched the lives of countless individuals but also ignited a passion for reading in her community. Age may be just a number, but the difference one can make knows no bounds.
