Preserving the past: A lifetime of curiosity.
An inspiring story of Saroj Soni (Khyaal Club Member)
“I am Saroj Soni, 75 years old, from Hyderabad. I was born in Washim, Maharashtra, and completed my education up to the 12th standard in a Marathi-medium school.
My creative journey began when I was around 12 years old. One day, I saw a beautiful beaded purse that someone had made. I liked it so much that I borrowed it, observed it carefully, and tried making one myself. That simple purse became the beginning of a lifelong passion. Soon, I started making many things using beads: purses, dolls, elephants, cows, sofas, and decorative items of all kinds. Nobody formally taught me. I simply looked at things, understood how they were made, and then created my own versions. Curiosity became my teacher. Along with beadwork, I also developed a love for embroidery, stitching, and crochet. My mother enjoyed embroidery too, and perhaps that is where I inherited my interest. Whenever I saw an interesting design, I felt compelled to recreate it. Many nights, I would stay awake until two in the morning, completely absorbed in finishing a project.
After completing the 12th standard, I got married and moved to Hyderabad. Like many women of my generation, my life became centred around family and responsibilities. But one thing never changed - I always loved creating things with my hands. Even after marriage, children, and countless responsibilities, I always found ways to learn something new, make something beautiful, or explore a new interest. As the years went by, my curiosity began leading me in unexpected directions.
About twelve years ago, I attended a coin exhibition with a relative. At first, I was simply there to look around. But as I walked through the exhibition, I noticed that some coins had tiny symbols and markings that I had never paid attention to before. I learned that these markings represented different mints where the coins were produced. The more I looked, the more fascinated I became.
I came home with a book about coins, determined to understand this world better. What started as a simple curiosity soon became a serious passion. I also joined the Numismatist society. I began studying coins, learning about different years, mint marks, rulers, and historical periods. Some old coins were already lying forgotten in our home. Slowly, I started adding to the collection by purchasing coins from exhibitions, auctions, and collectors.
For me, collecting was never just about owning rare objects. It was about preserving stories. Every coin seemed to carry a piece of history in its metal. Every note reflected a different era. I spent hours reading, researching, and learning before making any purchase. Over time, my collection grew to include coins from British India, Republic India, and even international currencies. Some notes have signatures of different governors, whereas some notes have printing errors, which make them rare and one of a kind. A few notes have a series of recurring numbers. Each coin, each note has its own story.
Later, my interest expanded beyond coins and currency notes. I developed a deep love for antiques as well. That passion came from my father-in-law, who was also a collector. He had a remarkable eye for old and unusual objects, and some of his collection eventually became part of mine. Inspired by him, I started searching for antiques wherever I could find them. Old brass vessels, traditional utensils, miniature idols, vintage tools, decorative pieces, knives, boxes, and countless forgotten treasures slowly found their way into my home. Whenever I visited my hometown or heard about an old shop selling vintage items, I would make time to explore it. What many people see as scrap, I often see as history waiting to be appreciated. After finding an item, I carefully clean and try to restore it, and then it becomes a part of my proud collection. Every antique has a story, a purpose, and a connection to the past. Today, my collection includes thousands of items accumulated over many years of searching, learning, and preserving. I have a showcase filled with my collection and am planning to get one more showcase for my newest additions.
People often ask me why I spend so much time collecting things. The answer is simple - it brings me joy. There is a special happiness in discovering something rare, learning its history, and knowing that a small piece of the past has been preserved for future generations. For me, collecting is not about money or investment. It is about curiosity, learning, and the excitement of finding its beauty.
I took one step forward in my coin collection journey when I participated in Khyaal 50 above 50 in the category, Coin collector - Numismatist of the year. And through it, I was introduced to the Khyaal app. As I explored the app, I found out about the various daily events and groups they offered. I didn’t even realise when I became fond of it all. I attend Khyaal sessions regularly, especially art and craft-related, Tambola, emotional well-being sessions, Yoga and game sessions. Through Khyaal, I learn something new every day. I have also made new friends in the Khyaal community. I also attended the Khyaal 50 above 50 event that took place in Mumbai. I met the wonderful Khyaal team and a few Khyaal members whom I had befriended. It was an awesome experience! My days have become richer and more meaningful through Khyaal.
And, I have not limited myself only to coin and antique collections. I constantly find something or the other where I can pour my creativity out. For example, I keep revamping the pots and planters in my garden, create items out of waste and still continue to make pearl jewellery. I love to gift my creations to my near and dear ones. Whatever the medium may be, I have always followed my curiosity. It has kept my mind active, my hands busy, and my heart happy. One piece of advice for fellow seniors is: Finding joy is simple. Even pursuing one small hobby daily can keep you healthy and give meaning to life.” - Saroj Soni (Khyaal Club Member)