On 6th Nov 2011, Sunday 63 volunteers from Kolkata visited Keshiari near Kharagpur and organised a memorable fun filled event for vanvasi children from nearby areas. Upon reaching the campsite, the volunteers received a very warm and traditional welcome from the vanvasis which comprised of vanvasi dance, drum beats, flower rain and slogans like 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'. The event started with Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram's flag hoisting by senior Poorna Kaleen Karyakartas. This was followed by flat races, biscuit races and games like bucket the ball etc. A total of 180 vanvsi children aged 3 - 6 yrs studying at Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram's Shishu Shikshka Kendras in nearby villages, accompanied by their guardians participated in this unique day long event. The entire gathering totaled to more than 400. After races, 3 doctors from Kolkata also conducted a basic medical health checkup of these children for signs of any underlying illness or diseases. Races for acharyas ( teacher in charge of the Shishu Shiksha Kendras ) were also organised and similar races were organised for the volunteers from Kolkata aswell. This was followed by a lunch for all those present. The programme ended with a prize distribution ceremony for the winners in the races and gifts of slates, sweets and articles of daily use were distributed by the volunteers to all the 180 strong children as a token of love and affection. The local vanvasis ended the day with a traditional dance in which the volunteers also participated. Ultimately the entire 63 member team from Kolkata comprising of volunteers from all age categories left the spot by evening amid slogans of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' & 'Vande Mataram' . This was a truly memorable day for both the vanvasis and nagarvasis. It was a day when the nagarvasis (volunteers) got a chance to meet the vanvasis, spend some time with them and make an effort to make a difference in their lives.
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