Tina Philip: Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive Through Teaching

Tina Philip believes that the essence of Christmas extends beyond just a single day; it's a commitment she embraces throughout the year.

Whenever her filming schedule allows, Tina dedicates her time to teaching underprivileged children, a practice she considers an integral part of her life. "This is something I do daily whenever I'm not shooting. I teach them mathematics and science. It's not just for Christmas; I've been doing it for a year now," she shares.

The mornings from 8 AM to 10 AM are reserved for her classes, where she teaches fourth-grade students who are eager to learn. "Some of the kids are incredibly sharp – it amazes me how quickly they grasp new concepts," she notes.

Tina emphasizes that keeping the Christmas spirit alive means consistency. She conducts classes on a pavement in Goregaon, part of a long-standing initiative led by 82-year-old Ramesh Uncle, who has been educating children for over two decades.

Initially hesitant to showcase her work online, Tina was encouraged by a friend to share her experiences. "If people see it, they might get inspired," her friend advised. This has proven true as many passers-by have come forward to support the children with food and supplies.

Her passion for teaching stems from her family's values. With a mother who is a teacher and a father who spent his life educating underprivileged kids, Tina reflects, "It’s our responsibility to make a difference in society. I believe in teaching them how to fish rather than just giving them fish, so the entire family benefits."

Being a recognizable face from television has fostered a connection with the children, many of whom express their affection through letters and drawings. "The love these kids have for me is remarkable. It shows that actors can be approachable," she adds.

This Christmas, Tina surprised the children by providing them with new clothes, noting, "I wanted to make their Christmas special." Her goal is to help them realize their potential and build a better future.

"I’m trying to help them create a lasting future for themselves. If any of them succeed, it will be my biggest achievement," she concludes.