Teach for Change started with one school in Bowenpally and now we are in hundreds of schools touching over 2,67,000 government school children
In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, actor-producer Lakshmi Manchu talks about her Teach for Change initiative, upcoming projects and her fitness regime.
Why did you rope in Rhea for the Teach for Change Annual Fundraiser?
It was very easy for me, apart from her beauty, which is unbelievable. She’s an amazing example of resilience, which is what is needed today in our people. If we can rise up to stand up for ourselves like she did, there is so much to learn from her and she was a no-brainer for me.
What was the idea behind the Teach for change initiative?
I truly did not think Teach for Change would become what it is today. I am even today an observer and a complete worker in this initiative. It started with one school in Bowenpally and now we are in hundreds of schools touching over 2,67,000 government school children and the initiative was just an idea and an intention to do good and then it just took a shape of its own truly.
What’s happening on the career front?
On the work front, I have my first reality-based television show that I am a part of. It’s a national show. In Telugu, I have a movie called Daksha coming out this summer.
What’s your fitness routine like?
My fitness routine is pretty much whatever I feel like that morning, which are three basic things— yoga, weight training or Pilates. So I try to get these my one hour workout at least five times a week.
Do you follow any specific diet?
I love food and if I really ate specifically what I am supposed to eat, I think my body would look very different. Having said that, I am very happy with the way I look. But I consciously try to eat lighter during the night and heavier during the day. So there’s no real specific diet. After so long and being through so many nutritionists and reading so much, you pretty much figure out what’s right for your body and you have to listen to it ultimately.
How do you prioritise mental health when so much is happening around?
I cannot insist hard enough on how important it is to have a guide, a mentor, a coach, someone in life to guide you through the chaos that is thrown at you. God forbid, you think you can figure it all out through your own mind. It’s not possible. You need people who are experts in their field to put a structure to your thoughts and guide you. I am very grateful for the people in my life that I can go to when I am confused or if I have something that I need some clarity on. I do go to people and really take whatever my guides and mentors tell me into consideration and it really helps me navigate through life truly.
