55 Years old lady walks over 2000km across India
Introduction:
Imagine an architect stepping out of the conventional office environment to embark on an extraordinary journey, advocating for the profound connection between design, social change, and the environment. Picture a woman in her fifties, with the wisdom of years reflected in her stride, donning a runner’s outfit, passionately walking across the country to connect with people, absorb insights from her surroundings, and promote the transformative power of design for a better future.
Meet Gita Balakrishnan, a remarkable individual who has chosen to walk for a cause that transcends physical endurance and athleticism. Her mission is to raise awareness about the critical interplay between design, social change, and environmental sustainability, inspiring fellow professionals, students, and everyday people to make a positive impact.
Gita Balakrishnan’s Journey: Defying Architectural Conventions
Born and raised in Kolkata, Gita Balakrishnan pursued her architectural education at the School of Planning and Architecture. Despite being a promising student with numerous opportunities awaiting her, she felt a lack of excitement in conventional career paths. Guided by her adventurous spirit, she decided to explore “Alternative Methods of Construction,” marking the beginning of a unique and inspiring journey.
Gita’s passion for eco-friendly construction and innovative design solutions led her to collaborate with AVAS (Association for Voluntary Action and Services) in Bangalore. Here, she used her architectural skills to design shelter homes for the urban poor, making a significant impact in the realm of social work. Her commitment to eco-friendly construction methods began during this time, making her a pioneer in advocating for these practices in slum areas.
Her dedication extended to the “Development of Weavers and Rural Artisans in Kalamkari Art” (DWARAKA) project, which supports Kalamkari artists and handloom weavers in Andhra Pradesh. Gita’s work continues to transform the lives of those she encounters, exemplifying her dedication to driving positive change.
In 2002, Gita Balakrishnan founded ETHOS, an organization that unites architectural and civil engineering colleges from across India. ETHOS provides students with a platform to exchange knowledge and insights while empowering them to make informed choices that lead to meaningful transformations in their respective fields.
Walking for a Cause: The Kolkata to Delhi Journey
As Gita Balakrishnan celebrated the 20th anniversary of ETHOS in 2022, she embarked on an incredible journey that captured attention and hearts. She walked from Kolkata to Delhi, covering a distance of 1700 kilometers on foot. Her motivation was not solely personal achievement or adventure; it was driven by a deeper purpose.
Gita aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues, social change, and the profound influence of design on shaping a better future for India. Her walk was a powerful statement about the role of architects and designers in addressing these pressing issues and enhancing the well-being of communities.
Inspiring Future Generations:
During her walk, Gita Balakrishnan sought to sensitize aspiring architects and civil engineers about the importance of empathetic design. She aimed to instill in them a sense of social responsibility and an understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by different communities.
Her message was clear: architects and civil engineers have the power to create spaces that cater to the needs of all, especially the underprivileged. Gita’s journey served as an inspiration for future professionals to prioritize equity and sustainability in their architectural pursuits.
The Kolkata to Dhaka Journey: Crossing Borders for Design
Following her remarkable Kolkata to Delhi walk, Gita Balakrishnan set her sights on an even more ambitious endeavor. She walked from Kolkata to Dhaka, covering 306 kilometers between two nations, India and Bangladesh. This journey aimed to celebrate the shared heritage and architectural beauty of these two great nations while raising awareness about the significance of design and environmental sustainability.
During her Dhaka walk, Gita immersed herself in the lives of local villagers, experiencing their warmth and hospitality firsthand. It highlighted her deep connection with nature and her genuine interest in people.
A Simple Woman with a Strong Mission:
Gita Balakrishnan may be a highly educated and successful architect, but her heart remains simple and down-to-earth. Her mission in life is to live a life of substance, act as a catalyst for change, and set an example that others can look up to, learn from, and follow.
If you haven’t connected with Gita and witnessed her remarkable journey, it’s time to do so. Follow her on Instagram to stay updated and inspired by the incredible feats of this walking advocate for design, social change, and environmental sustainability. Gita Balakrishnan is a testament to the power of individual passion and dedication to drive positive change in the world.
Conclusion:
Gita Balakrishnan’s exceptional journey, characterized by her extensive walking expeditions, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of an individual’s dedication to a noble cause. Her walks from Kolkata to Delhi and Kolkata to Dhaka are not merely athletic achievements; they carry a profound message about the interplay between design, social change, and environmental sustainability. Gita’s aim is to sensitize future architects and civil engineers to the significance of empathetic design, emphasizing that they hold the power to create spaces that cater to the diverse needs of communities, especially the underprivileged. Her genuine interest in people and her strong connection to nature underscore her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society and the environment. Gita Balakrishnan’s legacy is one of inspiration, encouraging others to follow her lead in creating a more equitable, sustainable, and empathetic world.
Connect with Gita Balakrishnan Ma’am on instagram- gita_ethos
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