“Roots of creativity: Growing up years and early influences
A happy childhood is perhaps the most-fortunate gift in life” – Dorothy Richardson
Growing up, Nalini was known to be a creative soul and would be called upon whenever someone needed a card to be painted for a friend or family member. She was inspired by her large, multi-talented family which comprised much of her early influences. Her mother had a flair for sketching, cooking, stitching, knitting, hair styling, home décor. Her sister was an excellent painter. Her aunts were gifted with excellent creativity. It was in the family and she grew up seeing all their excellence. Her father strongly advocated fruitful usage of time and always encouraged her to pursue hobbies apart from studies. With him around all seemed possible and secure.
She recalls her childhood with great nostalgia. Residing in a bungalow with a large agricultural land that was her favourite haunt. Upon returning home from school, she would rush to this happy place which was always brimming with activity – with local workers tilling and ploughing the land, sowing seeds or harvesting at all times of the year. There were old trees spread over the farmland, and she would pick mangoes, bananas and guavas with her sister and play barefoot and carefree under the broad open skies. Sleeping under the stars watching the sun set in the horizon were some of the most memorable memories of her young life.
She grew up in a time when simple things gave the utmost pleasures, neighbours were an extension of family, festivals were all about large gatherings, food, colours, crackers and laughter. Going for picnics in large groups, cooking under the tree, spending time with loved ones in nature. Strong human ties and community living was the essence of everything.