Fighting coronavirus: This UAE resident distributes free masks among workers

Abu Dhabi - An Abu Dhabi resident since 2005, Bharathi said the crisis is an opportunity to give back to society.

Bharathi Pai, a socially active Abu Dhabi resident, initiated different approaches to tackle the pandemic crisis. She explored her creative side to address the social needs of individuals. She strictly follows preventive measures at home; stitched 300 masks for blue-collar workers; started free yoga sessions for friends and family to beat stress; and made bags and bedding items out of used scrap material.
"I ensured family members follow personal hygiene habits, preventive steps and yoga. I insist kids do cycling and catch some sunlight. My kids Neha and Siddharth and husband Ganesh have to do everything seriously."
An Abu Dhabi resident since 2005, Bharathi said the crisis is an opportunity to give back to society. "I stitch and distribute masks among construction workers at nearby sites and watchmen as it's difficult for them to buy it. I contributed masks for campaigns by cultural associations - the India Social and Cultural Centre and Indian Ladies Association for blue-collar workers," she said.
Bharathi is a member of Dubai-based 'Save, Scrap and Sew', which was started by Shambavi Rajagopal. "We collect scrap from tailors and stitch bags, pillows and bedsheets. This is given to the needy."
For an already busy homemaker, the pandemic made her hyperactive with a packed weekly timetable, including socially inclusive activities.
"I used to paint and stitch as a hobby and take art classes for others, but when the lockdown started, I realised the need to engage in more productive activities. When we work together for a cause, our enthusiasm grows and we feel more accountable towards our goals. I had attended yoga classes for more than four years. Amid this health crisis, I started online yoga sessions for the benefit of my family and friends. It helps to reduce stress and works to improve health and lifestyle. Now we have begun Zumba sessions."
On a personal front, Bharathi has recently joined an online dance class and learnt Sanskrit through a 21-day course. She is part of Art of Living and Bhagavad Gita online classes. "This helps spirituality and mental health. We will start to think about family and society in a different way," she said.
ashwani@khaleejtimes.com