Somaiya Vidyavihar University and Somaiya Ayurvihar students participated in a transformative experiential learning program at Madhuban Resort in Bhopal, conceptualised by Dr Urmi Thakkar and organised by Somaiya Centre for Experiential Learning, allowing them to engage with nature, history, and innovation in an interdisciplinary setting.
Students at Madhubhan Resort, located in Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, experienced their first camping experience, exposing them to the natural surroundings and discovering fortnight-old tiger pugmarks. Expert naturalist Shibajee Mitra demonstrated the use of a camera trap to capture wildlife footage. The lush environment and delicious meals at the resort’s dining area fostered a deep connection with the place, leaving students eager to return before the program ended.
The programme included a visit to the Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, where students analyzed India’s oldest known rock art, dating back to the Paleolithic to Medieval periods. They used learning journals to analyse evolving artistic techniques assisted by Mr Shibajee Mitra. It encouraged the students to question how belief systems influenced artistic themes. This immersive experience provided a rare insight into prehistoric life and the role of art in human storytelling.
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters: A Walk Through Time
Students visited the Saru Maru Caves, an ancient Buddhist site and monastic complex near Bhimbetka. The caves were visited by Gautama Buddha and Emperor Ashoka, and offer unique insights into pre-Buddhist and Buddhist artistic styles. The visit also provided insight into sustainable living practices of ancient inhabitants, enriching their understanding of India’s cultural heritage.
Saru Maru Caves: Tracing the Footsteps of Buddha
Dr Shibajee Mitra led students on a nature trail through Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary’s dry deciduous forests, introducing them to local flora and tiger scratch marks. The trail also introduced the concept of percolation pits, a method used in forest conservation to enhance groundwater recharge. At a resting point, Dr Mitra encouraged students to practice silence, allowing them to listen to the forest’s natural symphony. The students became fascinated by the forest’s biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics.
The Bhopal Tribal Museum offers students an immersive experience of Madhya Pradesh’s rich tribal heritage. The museum features life-size tribal dwellings, dim lighting, and art installations that depict cultural beliefs, rituals, and mythologies. Students analyse exhibits and reflect on the evolution of indigenous knowledge systems. Learning journal exercises encourage deeper observations and critical engagement with the tribal narratives.
On Republic Day, students attended the flag-hoisting ceremony at Somaiya School, near Madhubhan resort, inspired by its sustainable design, blending environmental consciousness with heritage conservation, and tribal art integrating traditional storytelling with modern pedagogy.
Dr Arun Rai, a survival expert, led a hands-on workshop where students learned survival skills for stranded on a tropical island and constructing makeshift tents. The program deepened students’ connection to the region, fostering a desire to contribute to forest conservation and rural development. In a discussion with Dr Shibajee Mitra and Mr Anuj, Director of Somaiya Group, students explored real-world challenges in the forested region, leading to the formation of multidisciplinary teams working on data analytics, solar-powered camera traps, and early detection systems for forest fires.
Through this initiative, students recognised the immense potential of experiential learning—not just as an academic exercise, but as a platform to contribute meaningfully to conservation, innovation, and community well-being.
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