The Independence Day has been an event that was much-awaited at Jaagriti, more so for the volunteers who recently became a part of the initiative, because for the first time we would be having so much time to interact with the kids. The day started pretty early as we had decided to start the proceedings at 9AM at Pragati Public School, Dwarka. When I reached there I was pleasantly surprised to find that kids had turned up in large numbers, all neatly dressed up and full of excitement. They were so eager to get started that it was a bit of a challenge to control them.
We started off with Abhishek telling them the significance of this day in a very interesting way. It was nice to see that quite a lot of kids already knew why we celebrate Independence Day. After this initial chit-chat we headed outside for rest of the activities planned for the day. The kids presented some songs that they had prepared for the occasion and everyone joined them in singing. But they did not stop at just presenting the songs, the meaning was also explained very lucidly to everyone present there. So while we volunteers were taken back to our childhood memories (the way Independence Day used to be celebrated at school), we got to know some new things as well.
After flag hoisting and National Anthem it was time for some fun. We divided kids into four groups and had a balloon-blowing competition. It was a mad rush as all the volunteers joined the kids to blow as many balloons as they could and win the coveted prize!!! Equally exciting was the teamwork displayed by all participants, with everyone screaming jaldi…jaldi…jaldi fulao. As one of the teams was declared the winner, there were tri-colored balloons all over the lawn literally flooding the place with colors of our flag.
Just when we were planning to have some more outdoor activities it started raining and we rushed inside. Now it was time for painting competition and kids were pleased to see the prizes to be awarded to winners. Lal Qila, India Gate, Kites, all were there on the drawing sheets in all possible colors. And most rewarding were the smiles on their faces, the spirit to outdo all others and take that prize home.
While talking to kids during painting competition I just jokingly asked a few of them -- ‘Who is going to win 1st prize?’. The unanimous answer was -- “Me.” Three cheers for everyone at Jaagriti for making this a reality.
All in all, the best Independence Day I have celebrated in past few years. Jai Hind.
For pictures of the event, please visit
http://picasaweb.google.co.in/anchitgoel/IndependenceDayCelebrations?feat=directlink#
- Ankit Kesri
