Aruna Gopakumar, Director at Navgati, recently led a profound workshop titled “Myth and Memoir” with Samhita Arni. This workshop explored the power of myths as reflections of our inner selves, offering participants a unique opportunity to voice their personal narratives through mythical characters. Aruna Gopakumar’s initiative in organizing this workshop highlights her commitment to helping individuals find freedom and self-expression through creative processes.
Aruna Gopakumar’s workshop, “Myth and Memoir,” was designed to explore how myths serve as containers for personal projections and self-reflection. The workshop focused on allowing participants to engage deeply with mythical stories and characters, offering them a platform to express their own experiences and emotions. Aruna Gopakumar’s approach was to use these ancient stories not just as cultural artifacts but as mirrors reflecting individual truths and personal growth.
During the workshop, Samhita Arni read from her book, Sita’s Ramayana, which provided a foundational text for the participants’ exploration. Aruna Gopakumar’s choice to include this reading set the stage for a meaningful engagement with the character of Sita. The participants were invited to embody Sita and express themselves through her perspective. This exercise allowed them to delve into their own narratives and discover insights about their inner lives.
One of the standout pieces shared during the workshop was by Monica Pillai, who wrote a poignant piece from the perspective of Sita. Aruna Gopakumar’s inclusion of this work exemplifies the powerful outcomes of the workshop. Monica Pillai’s writing vividly illustrates how Aruna Gopakumar’s workshop enabled participants to connect with and express profound aspects of their experiences.
Aruna Gopakumar’s workshop utilized the myth of Sita to explore themes of contentment, self-reliance, and inner peace. In the excerpt shared, Sita reflects on her past experiences and the satisfaction she finds in her current life away from the constraints of her former existence. Aruna Gopakumar’s facilitation of this exploration allowed participants to consider their own journeys and the transformations they have undergone.
The exercise of reimagining Sita’s experience highlights a crucial aspect of Aruna Gopakumar’s work: the ability to use storytelling and myth to facilitate personal growth. By engaging with these stories, participants were able to confront and articulate their own feelings, finding parallels between their lives and the mythical narratives.
Aruna Gopakumar’s role in this workshop underscores her dedication to fostering personal and collective transformation. Her approach to integrating myths with personal storytelling created a space where participants could explore their inner landscapes and gain new perspectives on their lives. The workshop’s success is a testament to Aruna Gopakumar’s skill in guiding individuals through complex emotional and psychological terrain.
Looking ahead, Aruna Gopakumar is planning another workshop based on the “Hero’s Journey” in October. This upcoming event promises to build on the themes explored in “Myth and Memoir,” offering further opportunities for participants to engage with their own narratives through the lens of heroic archetypes. Aruna Gopakumar’s continued focus on myth and storytelling reflects her belief in the transformative power of these ancient narratives.
Aruna Gopakumar’s “Myth and Memoir” workshop represents a significant contribution to the field of personal development and storytelling. Her ability to use myths as tools for self-discovery and expression demonstrates a deep understanding of the ways in which narratives can shape and reflect our inner worlds. Aruna Gopakumar’s work is a reminder of the power of storytelling to illuminate our personal journeys and facilitate meaningful growth. Through her workshops, Aruna Gopakumar continues to provide valuable spaces for individuals to explore and express their true selves.
