Vanika Sangtani’s Transformative Journey as a Storyteller: Defying Conventions and Unlocking Her Voice

May 17, 2024

3 Minutes

Early Roots and Cultural Influences

Hailing from a traditional Indian family in Jaipur, Vanika Sangtani found herself within a society that imposed strict expectations upon its daughters. Despite these societal constraints, a burning flame within her yearned to break free and pursue her own dreams.

Witnessing the sacrifices her mother had made, forced to abandon her dreams of education and writing due to societal norms and familial responsibilities, left an indelible imprint on Vanika’s young mind. This realization ignited a determination within her to forge a different path for herself.

A Passion for Storytelling

From a tender age, Vanika developed an unyielding fascination with storytelling. The story of her aunt, whose aspirations of becoming a Chartered Accountant were extinguished by an arranged marriage, served as a poignant reminder of the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.

As she grew older, Vanika encountered societal pressures that attempted to stifle her individuality. She was constantly reminded of the limitations imposed upon women in her family, such as restrictions on clothing and social outings. However, she resolved to challenge these constraints and embrace her own identity.

Academic Achievements and the Pursuit of Dreams

Determined to excel academically, Vanika immersed herself in school activities, proving her worth through her accomplishments. Holding the position of president of the drama club, she sought to showcase her talents and establish herself as a force to be reckoned with.

Despite her achievements, Vanika faced skepticism from relatives who questioned her abilities. They evoked her aunt’s fate as a cautionary tale against straying from prescribed boundaries.

Undeterred, Vanika approached her father with a bold request: permission to attend college in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai. Recognizing her determination, he hesitantly granted her wish.

Journey to Mumbai and the Challenges of Isolation

Leaving the confines of her hometown for the vibrant city of Mumbai, Vanika was filled with both excitement and trepidation. She was determined to seize this opportunity to prove her worth. However, her initial experiences were far from ideal. She felt isolated and struggled to connect with those around her.

During this time, Vanika stumbled upon storytelling open mics. Eager to share her stories, she stepped onto the stage for the first time. However, her performance fell flat, failing to resonate with the audience as she had hoped.

Embracing Authenticity and Finding Her Voice

Disheartened but not defeated, Vanika delved into the art of storytelling. She attended workshops, watched countless videos, and worked tirelessly to hone her craft. Through this process, she realized that authenticity was the key to success and that she needed to find her own unique voice.

Triumphant Return and the Power of Storytelling

Determined to showcase her potential, Vanika applied for an open mic in her hometown of Jaipur. Pouring her heart and soul into writing a story that resonated with the local audience, she took to the stage. Despite momentarily forgetting her script, she managed to connect with the crowd and deliver a captivating performance.

In that moment, Vanika discovered the transformative power of storytelling. She recognized the value of her voice and its ability to make a meaningful impact.

Over the next few years, Vanika continued to refine her skills and perform at open mics. Her internship with Tape A Tale, a storytelling platform, provided her with invaluable experience.

Pandemic Challenges and Viral Success

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges, but Vanika refused to allow it to hinder her progress. She recorded stories from the safety of her home, using her family as her audience. To her astonishment, these stories gained viral attention online.

Living Proof and a Message of Inspiration

Vanika’s journey has been marked by both obstacles and triumphs, but throughout it all, she has remained true to herself. She has embraced her own unique voice and refused to be defined by the expectations of others.

Today, Vanika Sangtani is a financially independent artist, performing her spoken word and storytelling at colleges across the country. Her journey stands as living proof that anything is possible with determination, patience, and the courage to follow one’s dreams.

Vanika’s message is one of empowerment and inspiration. She encourages others to embrace their own unique stories and to write their futures on their own terms, undeterred by societal expectations.