Rudraprayag: In a heartfelt homecoming after 53 years, celebrated Bollywood actress Himani Shivpuri has returned to her roots in Bhatwadi village, Rudraprayag district, with a mission of development and upliftment.
The actress, known for her versatile roles in Indian cinema, has adopted her birthplace with the intention of transforming it and addressing the pressing issues of migration and underdevelopment.
A grand welcome by villegers
The villagers of Bhatwadi gave Shivpuri a hero’s welcome, draping her in floral garlands and celebrating her arrival with great enthusiasm. Accompanied by her uncle Pitambar Dutt Bhatt and brother Himanshu Bhatt, Himani visited the village’s Kuldevi temple to offer her prayers. The nostalgia was captivating as she reminisced about her childhood memories, sharing that her last visit to the village was when she was just eight or nine years old.
Commitment to development of her village
Himani Shivpuri’s visit wasn’t just a sentimental journey but she pledged to work towards the social and economic development of Bhatwadi. Engaging with the villagers, she focused particularly on the women, as they form the majority of the village’s population. She listened to their concerns and suggestions, which included ideas for improving education, health, and employment opportunities in the village. In return, she shared her vision and proposed initiatives to enhance the village’s overall well-being.
Addressing migration issues in the region
A major challenge facing Bhatwadi, like many other villages in Uttarakhand, is the issue of migration. Many villagers have left in search of better opportunities in urban areas, leaving behind a demographic imbalance. Shivpuri’s initiative aims to tackle this by creating sustainable development projects that can provide local employment and better living conditions.
Emphasized the importance of basic amenities in rural areas
She emphasized the importance of basic amenities, which are still lacking in many parts of Uttarakhand, despite government efforts. Her personal story of struggle and success, starting her career in the film industry in 1984-85 as the first woman from the hilly regions of Uttarakhand, serves as an inspiration for many. She hopes to motivate the younger generation to pursue their dreams while staying connected to their roots.
Future plans
The actress plans to collaborate closely with the local community, implementing practical solutions based on the suggestions she received. By focusing on education, health, and employment, she aims to create a self-sustaining model for the village. Himani’s commitment to her culture is evident in her passion for Garhwali and Kumaoni arts. She not only enjoys listening to and singing Garhwali songs but has also contributed to the regional film industry. Her efforts to preserve and promote the local culture will be integral to her work in Bhatwadi.
