One of many reasons to smile over the last few weeks has been returning to playing an Indian instrument, the harmonium.
I had my first harmonium lesson when I was around 10 years old. It's traditional, as an Indian, to play the harmonium as my previous generations have done too.
I loved the sense of community with playing musical instruments and singing together. I didn't even need to know anyone in the group to feel that togetherness and sense of belonging.
My love for playing the harmonium also helped me overcome my fears of performing in front of large crowds. I used to voluntarily play and sing in front of large communities of people.
When I started my A Levels, I stopped playing the harmonium. It's only until after I qualified as a yoga teacher that I experienced the beauty of kirtan again. For now, I am enjoying playing in my own time, but I hope one day to hold kirtan events for others when the time feels right.