This year it was 4th July the Sunday following 29th June, the death anniversary day of SALIL. Sometimes it is preceding Sunday. For some time we tried to do it exactly on the 29th June. Working day made it possible only in the evening. Not as much time could be spent as we wanted. So the adjustment was inevitable. Adjustment is key word not only during life but even life after because we others are destined to live life of adjustment. It may be becoming somewhat ritualistic with every passing year but 13 years in long time to go.
As usual we had drawing competition. No subject is needed to be given. Children start as soon as papers and drawing materials are distributed. Usually it is typical scene of the sun rising from valley between two mountain peaks, or some festival or floral motives. The quality is similar to any other normal school children. Majority paintings are poor copies of some painting seen some where. Yet occasional exception do crop up to surprise. This year we had a boy painting Raksha Bandhan. When asked to explain he promptly told it is a festival where brother promises security to the sister. Imagine it coming from a boy abandoned on the streets. You have altogether different perspective of home, family and Indian culture. Invariably flag salutation is shown on the foreground of the shelter. Here not the quality of drawing itself that draws the attention but the thought behind it.
This was followed by dance numbers presented by some children. Once again it proved that the talent does not necessarily come with secured family back ground. Forget the talent but self confidence is exhibited to very large measure than average children of secured background. Then we had prize distribution and cash incentives to the boys securing first rank in his class room. No year is gone without having at least one such shining student receiving incentive. David had bagged it continuously during his school days. Now he is grown up and living independently in rented house along with his younger brother Wilson. He is a great reminder of the worthiness of cause.
The visit was completed with the lunch. A chicken Biryani cherished by all children. Perhaps our Lionesses were not too comfortable with non vegetarian food. They were considerate enough to see priority given to the liking of children. The Lions did their share under leadership of President Lion Anthony D”souza. A word must be spared in praise of the brother SANJAY in charge and the cook. A clear family bond is visible in their dealing with the Children.
The best part is of course the prayer said before start of the Lunch. Nothing better comes to my mind to bless the soul of our departed SALIL.
Arvind Khare
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