About Roots
“ROOTS – NURTURING A WISER GENERATION”
Fresh Air, Mud, Chirping Birds, Laughter, Rain. From an age where childhood was spent predominantly in the outdoors – to one of indoor play, social media, gaming platforms, constant air conditioners, and helicopter parenting. Not to mention the increasing infestation of Artificial Intelligence in our lives!
The fundamental nature of childhood has changed; there isn’t much nature left in it.
Despite research and our inborn knowledge of the importance of the outdoors to childhood, our kids are growing up at an arm’s length from the natural world. We urban folk are faced with a host of issues leading to reduced outdoor time – ranging from increased road traffic, pollution levels, erratic weather, increased stranger danger, and also lack of time due to our busy, over-scheduled lives. Prominent studies show that city kids spend an average of only 30 minutes a day playing outside (if at all!). That is 3.5 hours out of 168 hours. Add to this the element of super-intelligent technology which knows how to constantly steal the attention of adults and kids alike, further arresting us indoors.
Scientists share that the human brain is just not equipped to deal with this constant bombardment of information and over-stimulation that technology provides. We are sadly witnessing a stark rise in mental health disorders, anxiety levels, loss of confidence, and obesity in children across the world; making ‘Nature Deficit Disorder’ in our kids a very real problem today.
At the same time, we are constantly hearing about how we humans are the only species speeding towards self-destruction of our own home. Climate change, global warming, ozone depletion, mass extinction of species, and increased natural disasters are news not unfamiliar to us and our young. Our children today learn about these issues more than ever before in their various school classrooms. Yet, without enriching experiences in nature, how does one expect them to feel a real sense of attachment and loss towards our wild?
ROOTS is dedicated to addressing this growing ‘nature deficit’ through transformative outdoor programs for children. By integrating nature-based learning, we aim to reconnect kids with the natural world and instill a deep appreciation for the environment. These programs not only promote emotional, mental, and physical growth but also empower children to understand their role in protecting the planet.
At a time when our planet and children require special attention and care, we as parents need to, now more than ever, expose our children to nature-based experiences and an unhurried, unadulterated way of growing.
Founded in 2015, ROOTS is not a commercially driven exercise – but a passionate endeavor to be the voice that calls for a return to our natural human blueprint. ROOTS strives to help children form strong connections to themselves, each other, and the Earth through outdoor learning and meaningful interactions with the natural world.
Since its inception, ROOTS has worked tirelessly with children, conducting child-driven, eco-conscious workshops that nurture a love for the environment. These nature-oriented programs inspire a sense of gratitude, respect, and a renewed commitment to preserving our planet. If, through this process, our children begin to care deeply enough to contribute to environmental conservation – together, we’ve struck gold!
About Our Founders
Pooja Hemdev Lalwani and Arun Lalwani are passionate nature enthusiasts who have turned their love for the environment into a life mission. With a background in Business and a Masters in International Marketing from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, Pooja has held pivotal roles in renowned corporate entities like Sula, Provogue, and Little Kangaroos. Her career has spanned responsibilities from Business Strategy Development and Brand Positioning to International Market Expansions.
Alongside her corporate experience, she has authored numerous academic research papers for a British publishing house. Her journey into conservation began with childhood experiences in the natural world, where her fascination with forests and wildlife ignited a lifelong passion. Complementing her academic foundation, she pursued a course in Leadership in Biodiversity Conservation in Mumbai. She then proceeded to get Internationally accredited as a Level 3 Forest School Leader after rigorous training by the Forest Schools Associations, UK.
Arun Lalwani, a graduate from the National Institute of Fashion in Mumbai, has a distinguished 24-year career as a Fashion Designer. He is the creative force behind Little Kangaroos, a leading kids' wear brand, and the Biker Fashion label, Flying Wild.
A free-spirited traveler and wildlife photographer, he finds inspiration in exotic destinations, thrilling outdoor activities like snorkeling and surfing, and the untamed beauty of nature. With a deep connection to the sea and a fascination for forest landscapes, he has made wildlife photography his artistic outlet. Today, he shares this passion with their son, teaching him the art and wonder of capturing the wild. For over 15 years, Pooja and Arun have explored forests across India and beyond, immersing themselves in safaris, mountain treks, and remote camping experiences. Their extensive on-field connections with forest guides, guards, and conservationists have enriched their understanding of the natural world. In 2015, Pooja left her corporate career to establish Roots Nature Club with Arun. Together, they are dedicated to reconnecting children with nature, inspired by a commitment to preserving the planet for future generations. Driven by the joy and curiosity of their young son, Pooja and Arun’s mission is to foster a love for the outdoors, ensuring kids can grow up in harmony with our wild.
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