Final Impression, June 2009
Ibtissam Arbib


After two wonderful yet too short weeks with Sambhali, I am on my way to Delhi before flying back to Paris in a week. I have loved every single moment I spent with the girls, chatting away, sharing lunch, teaching English or even dancing during their “play time”. It is actually difficult to leave them now, as I started to get very close to them. When coming I wasn’t sure my presence will be very helpful as I was staying for a very short time, but I received good feedback from the girls who after just a couple of weeks managed to learn some things, clarify some issues they had with the English tenses for instance, or just felt more comfortable speaking the language. So I feel now that even if it is not much, it actually helped some of these girls. They appreciated the efforts I have put in my classes and they even learned some things: I couldn’t ask for more. Therefore, I would encourage anyone to contribute in their own way, even though it seems to be just a little, all these initiatives put together can make a difference.

I also had a great time with Govind’s family and crew at Durag Niwas. Everyone has been so lovely and helpful, and made my stay and my whole experience even better. Through them, I discovered the beauty of the Rajput culture and their hospitality. When I planned my trip to India, I had no clue I would end up in Jodhpur, Rajasthan to spend some time with Sambhali. I feel really grateful that I found out about this organization and that Govind gave me the opportunity to be part of it for some time. I will never forget what I have experienced here with Mukta, Govind and the Sambhali girls, and I really hope I can come back someday.