Bengaluru Entrepreneur Builds Free Learning Haven for Homeschoolers in Nelamangala
A Bengaluru-based entrepreneur is creating an inclusive alternative learning space in Nelamangala, exclusively for homeschooling families. Expected to open by August, the centre—named Shallaki after the medicinal herb—will be free of charge and initially cater to just 4–5 families.
The initiative is led by Hari Prasad Nadig and his wife, Suma Addoor, who homeschool their daughters, Samana (11) and Sarayu (9). Their decision to homeschool stemmed from a desire to give their children more time and freedom to explore than they had growing up.
“We wanted learning to be natural and curiosity-driven,” says Nadig. The couple practices unschooling—avoiding rigid schedules, textbooks, or imposed ideologies. Their daughters study diverse subjects ranging from wildlife to languages. Samana, for instance, speaks four languages and is learning Spanish, while Sarayu has taken up Japanese.
Recognizing the social limitations of homeschooling, Nadig aims to bring families together through this shared space. Shallaki will house nearly 9,000 books, including encyclopedias, Kannada literature, DIY science manuals, and STEM titles.
Beyond reading, the centre will offer hands-on experiences like gardening, farming, robotics, pottery, natural dye-making, seed art, and traditional cooking using a woodstove and well.
The space will be available to homeschooling families on weekdays, while weekends will welcome students from conventional schools for workshops like origami, STEM activities, and nature sessions.
“Our goal is to create a vibrant, experience-rich learning community,” says Nadig, hoping Shallaki becomes a model for collaborative and mindful education.
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