Paint my ‘Gram’ Green!!

A recent ‘Community Connect’ program at Sahastradhara KGFS saw us trudging through to our branch at Chaka, which overlooks the Koteshwar dam on the river Bhagirathi.

Over 160 children had gathered there on Sunday morning to let loose their imagination through colors in the ‘Chitrkala Pratiyogita’ (painting competition). Their eagerness was evident by the fact that most of them reached the venue at 7 AM, two hrs before time! One child travelled 80 km to take part in the event as this was the first time they were having such an event in the area.  Sixteen schools in the vicinity participated and fifteen teachers, including two principals, came to encourage and judge the contest. They were very glad that such an event was being held and did not want to miss being part of it.

Artists in unison

The children were divided into various groups based on their age and the theme varied from ‘My green village’ to ‘Environment as our heritage’. It was a challenge to judge while the children waited with baited breath, watching through the broken windows and doors – clearly eager and excited to know the results. The look of elation on their faces after receiving the medals, made us feel like winners! All the participants received a certificate of participation. It was also covered in the local press.

A brief on what Sahastradhara is was told to them and they all nodded vigorously on the fact that one must save for the future.

One child had drawn Sahastradhara branch as part of an ideal village.

The teachers have pledged that they will keep up the momentum and organize more such events. The feisty children unanimously clamored for a sports competition next time!

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Anupama Joshi, CEO, Sahastradhara KGFS contributed to this post.