In the bustling city of Hyderabad, where the blend of history and modernity creates a vibrant tapestry, lives a woman whose tales have captured the imaginations of many. Alka, a multifaceted personality, balances her life as a Product Manager at ICICI Bank and a passionate storyteller with remarkable finesse. Her story is not just about telling stories; it’s about weaving magic with words, touching hearts, and inspiring minds. This is a journey into the enchanting world of “Stories with Alka.”
The Genesis of a Storyteller
Alka’s journey into storytelling began long before she became a mother or a bank professional. It was rooted in her childhood, spent in the company of her favorite uncle. Her uncle, a masterful storyteller, would gather all the children around and spin tales of jungle adventures where he was the main character. These stories were vivid and captivating, making Alka’s young mind race with imagination. The seeds of her storytelling were sown in these moments, and they grew into a passion that would later define her.
As she grew older, Alka’s love for stories did not wane. Just after college, she started a book review blog in 2013, where she shared her thoughts and insights on various books. This blog was a testament to her enduring love for literature. However, it was the birth of her son that truly reignited her passion for children’s stories. Reading to him, she discovered the profound impact stories could have on young minds.
A Twist of Fate
The turning point in Alka’s journey came when she joined the Avatar Toastmasters club. There, she received feedback that her simple, engaging stories resonated deeply with people. This feedback was the spark that ignited her passion for storytelling. She realized that her knack for narrating tales could be more than just a hobby; it could be a way to connect with children, teach valuable lessons, and create memorable experiences.
Balancing her demanding career at ICICI Bank and her newfound passion for storytelling was not easy. But Alka’s dedication and love for both roles saw her through. Her professional life, marked by a decade-long tenure, provided her with the stability and understanding of processes that made her job manageable. Meanwhile, her role as a mother enriched her storytelling, allowing her to incorporate lessons of empathy, sharing, and kindness into her tales.
Memorable Moments
One of the most memorable moments in Alka’s storytelling journey occurred six months ago during a session on “Giraffes Can’t Dance.” It was a sunny afternoon, and the room was filled with the excited chatter of children. Among them were three-year-old twins, the youngest participants she had ever had. The twins were there without their mother for the first time, and it was evident that the boy was feeling scared and hesitant.
Seeing his discomfort, Alka invited their mother to stay with them during the session. Slowly but surely, the boy started getting engrossed in the story. His mother, sensing his growing comfort, began to move him inside the story room and eventually left without Alka realizing. After the story, all the children made giraffe headmasks and danced, inspired by the different dance forms mentioned in the book. To Alka’s delight, the once hesitant boy was now happily waltzing with her. This moment, where she was able to connect with a child and bring him out of his shell, was truly magical. It reaffirmed her belief in the transformative power of storytelling.
Favorite Stories
Alka’s repertoire of favorite stories is vast and varied. She believes that unless she loves a story, she cannot select it for her sessions. One such favorite is “The Gruffalo,” a tale of a small mouse outsmarting its predators. This story, where a tiny mouse stands tall against a fox, an owl, a snake, and even a Gruffalo, resonates deeply with children. It teaches them that no one can scare them, no matter how small they might feel.
Another favorite is “Croak,” a humorous story about a frog that jumps into a classroom on a rainy day. The masterji continues teaching, thinking the kids are playing a prank. The children’s laughter and joy at the frog’s antics make this story a hit every time. It allows children to correlate the tale with their own encounters with rainy days and the creatures they have found in their classrooms or homes.
The Influence of Childhood
Alka’s storytelling roots can be traced back to her childhood, where her uncle’s imaginative tales left a lasting impression on her. These early experiences with storytelling have deeply influenced her approach and passion for the craft. She doesn’t remember any specific book that had a significant impact, but her uncle’s stories of jungle adventures were always her favorite. He had a way of making the stories come alive, and Alka aims to do the same for the children who attend her sessions.
Challenges in Storytelling
Like any storyteller, Alka faces challenges, particularly when dealing with restless children. At times, one or two kids become restless during a session, lying down, playing with toys, or roaming around the room. To overcome this, Alka sometimes tweaks the story, asking the children what they think happens next or what story they want to hear next. For younger children, she occasionally calls their parents to come and be with them, ensuring they feel comfortable. Despite these challenges, Alka continues with her bag of stories, and most children end up participating and enjoying the session.
Parental Involvement
While parents are not directly involved in the storytelling process, Alka considers their perspectives when selecting stories. She aims to provide a blend of educational and fun content that parents would appreciate for their children. For very young children, parents often stay to assist with activities, ensuring a smooth session. Alka carefully curates each session with the right mix of educational and fun stories, keeping in mind the parents’ expectations and the children’s enjoyment.
Developing a Storytelling Style
Initially, Alka’s storytelling focused heavily on props and vocabulary building. Over time, her style has evolved to prioritize engagement and interaction. She now focuses on creating a dynamic and immersive experience for the children. Her sessions are not just about telling a story; they are about making the children feel like they are part of the story. This interactive approach has made her sessions more engaging and enjoyable for the children.
Impact and Feedback
The feedback Alka receives from parents and children is overwhelmingly positive. Parents frequently ask when the next session will be, and children often express their excitement and joy from attending her sessions. These responses fuel her passion and commitment to storytelling. The joy and connection she experiences through storytelling are priceless, and she feels a deep sense of fulfillment knowing she has made a positive impact on the children.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Alka aims to expand her storytelling sessions and incorporate new elements to keep them fresh and engaging. While she balances her corporate career, storytelling remains a beloved hobby with potential for growth. She dreams of reaching more children and making a bigger impact through her sessions. Her vision is to create a community of young readers and storytellers who share her love for stories.
Advice and Inspiration
For those interested in starting storytelling sessions for kids, Alka’s advice is simple: be genuine, adapt to the audience, and rehearse thoroughly. She draws inspiration from fellow storytellers, whose work she follows closely. Alka believes that every storyteller has a unique style, and the key is to find what works best for you and your audience.
Personal Fulfillment
Storytelling has enriched Alka’s life both personally and professionally. It has boosted her confidence, improved her communication skills, and provided a sense of personal accomplishment. The joy and connection she experiences through storytelling are invaluable. Every session is a new adventure, a new opportunity to connect with children and make a difference in their lives.
Conclusion
Alka’s journey from a product manager at ICICI Bank to a beloved storyteller is a testament to her passion and dedication. Through “Stories with Alka,” she continues to inspire, educate, and entertain young minds, leaving a lasting impact on children and parents alike. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling and the joy it brings to both the teller and the listener.
In the heart of Hyderabad, amid the hustle and bustle, Alka’s stories create a sanctuary of imagination and wonder for children. Her sessions are not just about listening to a story; they are about experiencing the magic of words, the joy of discovery, and the beauty of imagination. Alka’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of stories, and she stands as a beacon of inspiration for all aspiring storytellers. Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and the enduring power of storytelling.
