Andari Illu (Everyone's Home) by D Suiam

Andhari Illu serves not only as a site to satisfy hunger but also functions as a sanctuary for the lost. Its significance extends beyond our initial perceptions. An organization that was an answer to kindness and love for humanity. Dr. Surya Parkash's 24-year vision has transformed the organization into a sanctuary for knowledge, arts, and humanity itself.

In the heart of Hyderabad, there lies a nest of heaven, where humanity is prioritized, and the hunger for both food and wisdom is satiated. It all began with a simple yet heartfelt idea to address the community's basic needs, starting with access to food. What emerged from this humble establishment was a nurturing environment for exploration and education, fostering the growth of young, curious minds in a secure setting.

Andhari Illu operates three libraries across Hyderabad, each with a distinct purpose. Dr. Prakash and his team have crafted havens for youth to seek solace in knowledge. In Kothapet, a library initially focused on food access transformed into a study space, attracting 30-40 visitors daily. Chintal's library houses 14,000 books in a traditional setup and doubles as a museum for community-donated artifacts like photographs and paintings. The third library, donated by a retired Chief Security Officer, embodies the generosity of those who believe in education's transformative power.

Dr. Prakash expressed:

 "Our work is to keep the book alive so that a day comes when everyone who seeks a book has access to it. It's not about money; it's about reinforcing values and fostering a love for community and humanity. We intend to create a world where everyone can enjoy the simple pleasures of life - food, reading, and love without barriers or constraints. This is the essence of our journey." 

Dr. Prakash's vision extends beyond physical spaces, showcasing community resilience and collective effort. Initiatives like: The Power of 100-reading 100 Books, with 100 Writers and 100 Readers that foster a reading culture, uniting diverse individuals, resulting in the formation of many reading clubs around Hyderabad. Amid COVID-19, he started a library movement, establishing 105 libraries across Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, nurturing learning and community bonds.

Dr. Prakash's perception of life, career, and material wealth is just like any other young man's–no spirits, no extra mojo, just the regular grind. But his sister's deep love had been the spark plug igniting his transformation four decades back, filling him with genuine passion and a sunny outlook on humanity. Today, he stands as a spiritual beacon, envisioning a world transcending the confines of caste, religion, or any divisive labels, instead grounded in the universal essence of humanity. His odyssey stands as a testament to the enduring strength of compassion and interconnectedness. Amidst a world characterized by unpredictability and turmoil, his movement radiates as a beacon of hope, serving as a poignant reminder that genuine fulfillment stems not from material abundance, but from the relationships we foster and the positive influence we exert on others' lives.

Quote Dr. Surya Prakash "Life is resembling trees, which have grown steadily in their place for centuries, rooted deeply and embodying timeless wisdom. They whisper secrets of the earth, embracing the symphony of flora, fauna, and nature's rhythms. Humanity's disconnect from this natural world has led to a loss, an insult to life itself. Our work is to bridge this gap, offering a path back to harmony and understanding.”

FAQs

1. Can visitors borrow books from the libraries, and are there any limitations on borrowing?

Visitors can borrow books from the libraries at Andhari Illu, and there are no limitations on borrowing. The libraries aim to provide open access to books for everyone.

2. How does Andhari Illu source its books, and are donations accepted?

Andhari Illu sources its books primarily through donations from the community. Books are contributed by individuals who want to share their love of reading with others. The organization does not purchase books; instead, it relies on the generosity of donors.

3. Are the libraries at Andhari Illu focused solely on academic books, or do they offer a variety of genres?

The libraries at Andhari Illu offer a variety of genres, not just academic books. While there is a focus on providing educational resources, the libraries also house fiction, non-fiction, and other genres to cater to diverse reading interests.

4. How does Andhari Illu aim to keep the love for books alive in today's digital age?

In today's digital age, Andhari Illu aims to keep the love for books alive by fostering a culture of reading and discussion. Initiatives like "100 Books, 100 Writers, 100 Readers'' encourage community engagement with literature and provide platforms for sharing ideas and insights.

5. Can you explain the concept of "100 Books, 100 Writers, 100 Readers" and its impact on the community?

"100 Books, 100 Writers, 100 Readers" is a program initiated by Andhari Illu to promote reading and literary discussions. Writers and readers come together to share and exchange books over 100 days. This initiative has led to the formation of reading clubs and has had a significant impact on nurturing a love for books within the community.