Atita Verghese, a trailblazer and one of the first female skateboarders in India, has sparked a cultural revolution in Bangalore through her remarkable initiative, Girl Skate India. Her inspiring journey and dedication to promoting skateboarding among girls caught the attention of Red Bull's Skate Tales series. Hosted by the talented Latvian skater and athlete, Madars Apse, the show features Verghese in episode 6 of the series' third season that explores the vibrant skateboarding culture of Bangalore.
Madars' Bangalore tour took an unexpected turn, leading him and the crew to Mysore where they stumbled upon a wedding hall — a perfect skate spot. But what made this experience truly special was the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the people there. Ordinarily, skateboarders face the challenge of getting kicked out of spots by property owners or security, but the locals in Mysore not only allowed them to skate freely but also showed genuine interest in their activities, observing and interacting with them in a positive and engaging manner.
The highlight of this trip, however, lies in a photograph capturing a poignant moment of cultural osmosis. The image portrays Madars holding the hand of a priest from Mysore while guiding him on a skateboard. This powerful visual symbolizes the beautiful exchange of cultures - where a sport like skateboarding bridges gaps and brings people from different walks of life together in a spirit of curiosity and openness.
During Madars Apse's visit to India, his interaction with the priests exemplified the universal language of skateboarding, transcending linguistic and cultural barriers. His passion for the sport and willingness to share it created an extraordinary connection with the locals, fostering an environment of understanding and respect. The episode showcased India's rich skateboarding culture and highlighted skateboarding's impact in breaking stereotypes and fostering inclusivity, serving as a testament to its boundless potential to bring people together, irrespective of their backgrounds or beliefs.
If you enjoyed reading this, here's More from Homegrown:
Homegrown's Definitive Guide To Skate Parks Across India
Homegrown Skateboard Brands On Our Radar
A Kochi-based Brand Creating Premium, Handpainted Skateboards