Caregiving for your kin, especially parents and grandparents, in India is inherently tied to a sense of duty and family values — it’s something you do, no questions asked. And while most people willingly turn caregivers for their loved ones, the challenges, the isolation, the burnout and compassion fatigue that follow rarely find space in daily discourse. “Moreover, when you’re taking care of a parent or a grandparent, they continue to remember that relationship and not the fact that you are the parent in the relationship now. Even in your closest circles, you’re unable to have these conversations because of so-called duties and family values,” points out Vijji Chari, a leadership coach and storytelling practitioner from Bengaluru. 

To create a safe space for caregivers of older adults to express themselves, find joy, feel seen and build resilience, Chari, along with Madhu Smriti Shukla, a drama and storytelling practitioner, has come up with The Magic Shop, a virtual psychodrama and storytelling-based workshop series.