CAti-patang-POEIRA: Start the year at Aksa Beach

Already a month into classes with the children of Bainganwadi practically everyday, we organised a special treat for the little ones -- a picnic trip to Aksa Beach on January 1st, 2011 (New Year's Day)! The children had been informed a week before, and they all brought their consent forms signed by their parents. We arranged for food and beverages for the children - which the community members, along with Seema, took care of. We hired a bus that would be with us through the day - right from picking the children up to dropping them home.

The day finally arrived. Chicote, Pantera, Chico and Diamante went to pick the children up. They were already standing outside the Balwadi, beaming in eager anticipation. The boys had their stylish bands and shirts on, while the girls were dolled up in their best, all were ready for an unforgettable day with us. The bus ride was loud, excited, noisy. Some of the children had never seen the beach or the sea. So it was no surprise that when they all set foot on the beach, there was a momentary silence in which the gargantuan space was registered. Once the moment lapsed, so did the silence (and momentary awestruck stillness). We found a spot and settled there; and soon the children spread out and played games. It was treat for us to finally see the children run free and happy, especially the shy ones.