Gopika Menon

My journey with ‘The Music Factory’ began with an instrumental realization that occurred to me one day as I came face to face with the heartbreaking realities of the world during a school event. For this event in particular, our school had invited acid attack victims to walk the ramp at our school for a fashion show event called ‘The Resilience Runway’. The moment the fashion show began, I didn’t even notice the tears that had automatically started streaming down my face,glowing warmly under the steady stream of yellow light backstage. Many people were under the misconception that I was crying due to the pity I felt for them,but it was not that at all. I was completely shocked at how people could be so full of mental fortitude and strength that they become victims of such deep hatred and injustice, and yet they smile and reach great heights only showing the world that they are unstoppable. It was in that moment that I decided that I wanted to be part of a cause much bigger than myself, and ‘The Music Factory’ provided me with the perfect opportunity for it. It combined elements of my favorite hobby- music and the invigorating sense of giving back to the community all in one melodious harmony that we could carry around with us, spreading the power and joy of music to all those who need it. Since then, I have never looked back. Being a part of this organization has completely changed my outlook towards the world, helping me see beauty and find resilience in all microscopic and seemingly arduous situations in life. It has helped me realize how easy it is for us young, privileged minds to get caught up in our own, mundane problems when there are much bigger and more urgent causes out in the world that need our support. The Music Factory participated in various initiatives and programs aimed at uplifting the community. For example, we supported the “Namami Gange” program, which focuses on cleaning and rejuvenating the Ganges River. We also worked on projects like the “Donor on Call” initiative, encouraging people to donate for people in need of blood. Additionally, we are involved in movements supporting acid attack victims, using music to raise awareness and provide support. Being a part of this adventure is something that I would be forever grateful for both to all my teammates and to Aartee Aunty, who helped me direct my time and efforts to the community and take a tiny step in the right direction to make this world a better place.