The Nation's future....

Last Friday, I had the privilege of visiting a small Government high school in the outskirts of Bangalore. It was a project started, thanks to Sharmila, a peer at IBM. She had listed the school as one of the "needs attention" schools in the outskirts of Bangalore. The Goverenment provides free Education, books and uniforms at these schools. However, kids get just one pair of uniform, and very often we see them wearing the same uniform at home too, simply because that is the only pair of dress they have! ROTI, KAPADA, aur MAKAN - these are the three basic necessities of life. Its sad that majority of the Indian kids are struggling to find justice in the basic amenities of life.

We managed collecting a decent fund to provide a pair of shoes and socks to the kids of the school. Thanks to BATA, which agreed to give us the shoes and socks at its Cost Price, and thanks to all the Rational-ites, who contributed whole-heartedly to the cause. Its really touching to see how a small Pat on the Back can make the kids feel special. A simple "What is your name?" brought a wide smile on their faces. I had goosebumps when I entered the small school compound. I saw around 200+ kids eagerly awaiting us - cos they knew we've got them goodies. The whole compound went roaring with claps and excitement when we entered. Such simple things bring them so much joy. There was a small cultural programme, where the kids danced to a few Kannada folk songs. My eyes caught the attention of one of the girls dancing in the group. She was exceptionally good, and stood out among the rest. I took a moment and asked her about herself. All her friends came to speak about her .. "Akka... she always stands first.. She went to the film studio to perform for a scene in Aapitamitra akka".. For those who don't know, Aapitamitra is one of the recent hit movies of the Kannada Film industry. I am glad that her talent was recognised, but a thought that crept into my mind was - Was the girl given a chance in the movie because she would quote a cheaper rate than the others (Or, maybe, fascinated by the opportunity, she would not even have realised that she had to be paid!) ? MAYBE.....

We began distributing the shoes and socks to the kids. They came neatly in a line and collected their shoes and socks. Everyone would shake hands and say Thanks you - Their teacher was instructing them to be well-mannered before us. I was taking a few pics of the kids, and they were so enthusiastic about posing - Everyone wanted their pic :)


I had a feeling of satisfaction when I slept that night. I have complained to my mom about not liking the food she cooked - And here, I see kids who struggle to eat food to even survive. I have complained about not having a new pair of shoes - And here, I see kids walking bear foot. Now, I realise the importance of being satisfied and content with what we have.