Ayesha Singh Pasrich, 13
Daughter of dancer-actor Shivani Wazir Pasrich and lawyer Amir Singh Pasrich
Ayesha is shy to start with, but soon starts talking nineteen to the dozen, particularly about her love for horses. This student of Mayo College Girls’ School says she loves her school in Ajmer because it trains her to be an all-rounder. Mayo’s excellent academic and sports facilities have encouraged her to perform better, and being in a boarding school has made her more responsible and independent. “But I still miss home in Delhi, especially the dogs and horses. They are my life,” she says.
This 13-year-old loves history, especially Delhi’s, and one of her favourite chapters is peopled by the Mughals. “It’s fascinating to learn how they ruled, their governing systems, the culture of that time, society, economy and other aspects,” she says.
About her boarding school, Ayesha says: “It’s a great environment to be in.” Given the packed school schedule, there’s barely any time to miss home, but both Ayesha and her older sister Ameera, who also studies at Mayo, miss their horses terribly. “Of course, we miss our parents too because they are our bedrock—supportive, understanding and doting—but our horses are also very dear to us and they’re constantly on our minds,” says Ayesha. “We both find riding to be the most challenging as well as the most pleasurable activity. It teaches balance, patience, caring and confidence. My horses really are my best friends. And of course, they’re very handsome too.”
No surprises then about what keeps her busy when home from school. “I ride for hours on end. My favourite is a dark bay called Bloom. She’s the kindest thing. Every time my sister and I see her, we fall in love with her all over again,” says Ayesha.
What does Smart City mean to you?
A city with fewer people so there are fewer cars and less pollution.
Do you think Delhi is or can be a Smart City?
Yes, because it’s moving away from casteism. It’s diverse with lots of employment opportunities. And no, because the population puts pressure on the system.
Things you like about the city.
My home, because of my horses and dogs. My old school, Sanskriti, and all my friends. I love the history of Delhi. Finally, I also love the trees in Delhi.
Things you don’t like about Delhi.
Breaking and remaking of roads, lack of cleanliness. The population and pollution are a worry. I don’t like how rich people waste food. Delhi has a lot to learn from Chandigarh.
How would you improve the city if you were the Chief Minister?
To reduce corruption, I would increase the police’s salary. I would implement laws stringently and would stop the sale of diesel cars.