Chukki KR (second from left) with children at Nali Mana | Photo courtesy: Special Arrangement
Art has been a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional exploration for centuries. Studies show that engaging in creative activities can lead to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. It can improve mood, boost self-esteem and also reduce stress hormones. In child development, art offers a unique benefit – it provides young minds with a safe space to understand complex emotions, build self-awareness and develop coping mechanisms. This is exactly the philosophy behind Groove Mind, a Bengaluru-based initiative that uses the power of theatre to nurture a child’s psychological well-being.
Naali Mana founder Chukki KR has always been drawn to the dual worlds of theatre and psychology. In college, she balanced acting and psychology studies and was associated with her parents’ (N Mangala and Rangayana Raghu) theatre group Sanchari.
Psychology classes were intertwined with evening time spent in theater rehearsals, leading Chukki to inadvertently bridge the gap between the two. This connection sparked the idea for her dissertation: exploring the impact of theater on well-being. Interviews with fellow young theater artists echoed her own experience: “Theatre was not just acting; it shaped their approach to life.” Encouraged by her assistant professor, Chukki’s dissertation became the seed for Conduit Mind.
Founded in April 2023 after her graduation, Nali Mind today provides a nurturing space for 15 children aged five to 14 to explore their emotions and build the foundation of a healthy mind.
Children in Nali Mana | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Chukki envisions Nali Mana as a platform that leverages theatre as a therapeutic tool for children. “I think it improves their happiness, personality and overall behaviour,” she explains. Acknowledging the existence of art therapies such as movement and art therapy, which use self-expression through drawing and body movement, she explains Nali Mana’s distinctive approach.
“At Nali Mana, we start by breaking the ice. We have a simple game called Tom and Jerry – it’s like a chase game. It relaxes children and makes them feel they are part of a team,” she says.
Once the snow melts, the sessions seamlessly transition into storytelling. Recognising the multifaceted nature of theatre, Chukki incorporates movement and music to create a complete experience. “We can start with some games, then, we can move on to storytelling activities and end with some relaxation techniques using music and movement,” she adds.
“Storytelling is a great way to boost imagination and creativity,” she explains. “We can play some music, let the children relax, and then I will start telling the story. They have to imagine the story, and then after the story is finished, they tell it again. It is different from the original story because their imaginations take it in different directions. Sometimes, they retell it with words or even draw pictures. It is amazing to see how each child interprets the same story differently!”
Nali Mana prioritises tracking each child’s progress. This is achieved through daily observations recorded in individual worksheets, which are similar to personal journals. Chukki finds this process interesting as it gives her a chance to witness each child’s transformational journey. “For instance, a child who may be hesitant to speak on day one may take the initiative and interact with others effortlessly by day 15.”
These behavioural changes are recorded and shared with parents. Roopa R, mother of Kushavartha P (11) and Ganvi P (7), reiterates the positive impact of Nali Mana on her children. “Before Nali Mana, my children did not socialise with anyone. However, there was some change after the sessions with Chukki. It did not happen immediately. But gradually, my son started behaving differently with his sister and me. He was becoming helpful. Even my daughter has become more confident in the way she speaks.”
Chukki’s vision extends far beyond Nali Mana’s current reach. “If something as simple as theatre can create happiness, why not embrace it?” she asks. After completing a year, she wants Nali Mana to collaborate with schools. “I am interested in creating a programme for adults as well,” she says.
“We all deserve a place to express ourselves and build our confidence. So, Nali Man is not just for kids. Art and therapy is for everyone.”
For more information contact 7090959669
