Student-Authored Book Explores Life Lessons from Dr. Sonal Mansingh
New Delhi, October 24, 2026: Rhythm of a Lifetime: Learnings from Dr. Sonal Mansingh, an illustrated book authored by students, was unveiled at Swarnika Samvaad in New Delhi. Published by Potli Collective under its Dada Nani programme, the book explores the values, experiences and life lessons of Dr. Sonal Mansingh, one of India’s prominent cultural figures.
The book examines the person behind the public figure through questions, conversations and observations by young authors. It explores themes including self-respect, the courage to follow one’s calling, discipline, patience, the importance of a guru and the value of lifelong learning.
Through personal anecdotes and illustrated storytelling, the publication connects these themes with the everyday experiences of young people. Its format brings together conversations, reflections and stories to make the lessons accessible to younger readers.
The unveiling took place in the presence of Smt. Bansuri Swaraj, Hon. Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha; Dr. Sasmit Patra, Hon. Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha; and members of the Board of the Centre for Indian Classical Dances (CICD), including Shri Ganga Kumar, IAS; Smt. Malavika Joshi; Shri Navneet Soni, IRS; and Smt. Swati Kovind.
Speaking on the occasion, Apresh Mishra, Co-founder of Potli Collective, said, ‘Through Rhythm of a Lifetime, we wanted to move beyond documenting the achievements of an eminent personality and explore what young people can learn from her life. Dr. Sonal Mansingh ji's journey offers powerful lessons about self-respect, discipline, courage, humility and the importance of never stopping learning. What makes this book special is that students have approached these lessons through their own questions, observations and interpretations.’
The publication follows an approach to cultural learning that places young people at the centre of exploring and documenting traditions, individuals and knowledge systems. Students engage with these subjects and translate their observations into stories intended for a wider audience.
Rhythm of a Lifetime is part of Potli Collective’s Dada Nani programme, which seeks to encourage intergenerational learning and connect young people with India’s cultural heritage through storytelling, arts and documentation. The initiative uses the lives and experiences of cultural practitioners to encourage conversations about values, identity, purpose and personal growth.
