Introduction

I’m Kush, the editor of Project Vaaṇi, where my role is to listen, observe, and amplify voices that often go unheard. Every so often, a story reshapes not only how I edit but how I view the world. One such transformative experience unfolded during a visit to Chandni Chowk.

A Walk Through Chandni Chowk

An Overwhelming First Impression

At 3 a.m., the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk buzzed with life—dust, smoke, and the aroma of food filled the air. For someone like me, raised in relative comfort, the chaos felt overwhelming. Yet, for the residents, this was home—a vibrant world of families, businesses, and joy thriving amidst the hustle. This contrast sparked a shift in my perspective, grounding me in humility.

Lessons in Patience and Perspective

Lesson One: The Limits of Influence

Our shoot hit an unexpected roadblock when the location was locked. No amount of persuasion or privilege could change that. Standing there, I learned that influence has its limits, and sometimes patience is the only way forward.

Lesson Two: Confronting My Biases

Meeting Shani Maharaj was a turning point. Initially, I misjudged his work, seeing struggle where there was resilience. As he shared his story—working multiple jobs to secure a brighter future for his children—I saw strength and quiet determination. His words held no bitterness, only resolve. Listening to him forced me to confront my own biases and assumptions.

A Legacy of Resilience

The Sweet Shop Owner

Later, I sat with the owner of a 235-year-old sweet shop, whose calm pride carried the weight of generations. His legacy, built layer by layer over centuries, stood as a testament to endurance. Two men, Shani Maharaj and the shop owner, lived vastly different lives, yet both embodied resilience and purpose. Their stories reminded me that every voice in Project Vaaṇi holds a kahaani worth sharing.

A Mirror to the Self

Chandni Chowk was more than a shoot location—it was a mirror reflecting the resilience of others and the limits of my own perspective. It taught me to listen more deeply and embrace discomfort as a path to growth.

The Spirit of Project Vaaṇi

Project Vaaṇi is about more than storytelling; it’s about transformation. Through these stories, we uncover not only the lives of others but also insights into who we are—and who we might become.