Nima Bhandhal – Mindful Champs Founder and Children’s Author
Mum: Kala Patel – Founder and Managing Director of Kiddycare Nurseries Ltd
My mother has been the foundation of my mindfulness and personal growth journey. Since I was little, I watched her seek self-discovery—attending talks by Tony Robbins, Deepak Chopra, and Wayne Dyer. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what she was learning, but I absorbed it just by being around her. She’s always encouraged me to grow, given me space to make mistakes, and guided me through my darkest times. Because of her, my personal growth journey has never felt isolating—it’s felt safe. She’s shown me that even in life’s toughest moments, resilience and grace can coexist.
One defining memory from my early teens shaped how I approach parenting. I was keeping something from my mum—something I knew she had found out. When I finally asked if we could go for a drive, we sat in silence for 20 minutes before I broke down in tears. She wasn’t disappointed in what I had done but in the fact that I hadn’t come to her first. She told me she never wanted to hear something about me from someone else, that I could always tell her anything without judgment. That moment changed everything—she became my safe space. I hope to create the same trust for my own children one day because every child deserves a place where they feel safe to land.
One of the best pieces of advice she ever gave me was: “If you don’t know what to do, don’t do anything.” She taught me never to make decisions from fear or heightened emotion. I used to be reactive, but I’ve learned that clarity always follows stillness.
No matter where life takes us, one thing remains sacred—our morning masala chai. It’s our little ritual, a moment to connect. Since getting married, I miss it, but we still make it work over FaceTime. It’s not about the tea; it’s about us.
Mum, you are my safe space, my greatest teacher, and my best friend. The greatest compliment I receive is when people say they see you in me. I love you more than words can express. Happy Mother’s Day.
