The former Indian Ladies Association (ILA) President Sarada Ajith recently sat down for an exclusive interview with The Daily Tribune to reflect on her tenure and share insights into the significant achievements and milestones that marked her leadership. During her time as president, Sarada was dedicated to revitalizing ILA’s cultural and social initiatives. She successfully launched the ILA Ghabga event and organized impactful charity initiatives focused on workers’ welfare. Sarada expressed that the success of the Ghabga event gave her the confidence to revive traditional events that had been paused due to the pandemic, such as the Anand Bazaar and the Leela Jashnmal Lecture series. She also hosted a grand Onam celebration at the new villa, marking a return to cultural festivities.
One of President Sarada’s most notable accomplishments was the relocation of ILA’s operations from a flat to a spacious villa. This move, which had long been considered a dream, provided enhanced facilities and ample parking space. Despite facing numerous logistical challenges and having to secure necessary government approvals, Sarada considered the milestone well worth the effort. The new villa also significantly benefited the ILA Sneha Recreation Centre for special needs children, offering more space for activities and improved learning tools such as a new projector for visual learning.
President Sarada made it a priority to foster a sense of community and empowerment within ILA. She organized events like the ILA Diva, Beyond Beauty event, which provided a platform for nurses, house helpers, and Sneha children to showcase their talents. Additionally, the ILA Dandiya event during Navratri saw over 1800 attendees and was celebrated as one of the best Dandiya events on the island. Sarada’s leadership also saw the revival of the Leela Jashnmal Lecture series, featuring Dr. Tessy Thomas, the missile woman of India, providing an informative and inspiring session that highlighted ILA’s commitment to educational initiatives.
Despite the expenses incurred in shifting premises, ILA under Sarada’s leadership maintained financial stability. Successful events and strong sponsorships helped the association to keep a healthy financial status. President Sarada expressed profound gratitude to her executive committee members, sub-committees, advisory committee, former presidents, and all proactive members for their unwavering support. She also thanked her family for their understanding and encouragement throughout her tenure. As she bids farewell, President Sarada leaves a legacy of significant achievements and a stronger, more vibrant ILA, extending her best wishes to the incoming committee led by Ms. Kiran Mangle.
The Indian Ladies Association (ILA) in Bahrain, established in 1956, fosters cultural, social, and charitable activities within the Indian community and beyond. Through Sarada Ajith’s leadership, the ILA saw successful events, cultural revivals, infrastructure upgrades, enhanced facilities for special needs children, and educational programs. Despite some challenges, President Sarada successfully guided the association to financial stability while fostering a sense of community and empowerment among its members. Her legacy of significant achievements will continue to inspire and guide ILA into the future under the leadership of the incoming committee led by Ms. Kiran Mangle.
