Called be the Beacon in our World Today is the need. Yes, to be a symbol of hope; an inspiration; a bonfire, to dispel and unearth the darkness that surrounds us. The darkness that has kept/keeps us spellbound through various fascination and allurements. The darkness that comes like the white ants and has had destroyed life coz of vested interest and greed. The Formalin issue is one such darkness. The celebration of our day of Freedom from the Portuguese Rule, is the right time for introspection and action. On this day, the event of Independence Day by Asha Sadan Social Centre was diligently organized. There was a soul to it. A soul that was vibrant, contagious and exuberant. Depiction on the day’s event by the Pre-Primary and Coaching Class children and students with enthusiasm and zeal brought smile and encouragement to the audience/public.
The programme began with the prayer service with the lighting of the lamp by the Directress of Asha Sadan Social Centre, Baina, Sr. Lourenca Marques sfn, President of Lion`s club and the team members. The theme `Called to be the beacon in our world today` was well displayed with the children praying for our Nation for Peace amidst violence; for Justice against falsehood that comes in varied forms, eg Fake news; for Freedom from the chains that the present System of our Country that has bound us with in our independent country and the light to dispel the darkness in and of the world, to live with one mind and heart. The two events Assumption of Our Lady and 72nd Independence Day depiction expressed it all.
It was time to discover the art in/of the students as the programme began with the Poster Competition by the Coaching class children very creatively on the different National Leaders that left the judges confused in judging since all the children presentation was awesome and mind blowing. The audience was amazed to see and hear the vocabulary being used with great accent that fascinated them by the Speech competition simultaneously that won everyone`s heart and it was really tough to judge. The Speech competition on the day’s significance was in Hindi as well as English. The children of the coaching classes performed a dance I LOVE MY INDIA that was vibrant and attractive. Then the Pre-Primary student 4 years old gave a speech of the day’s event which was so very clear and stunning. The Patriotic song sung by the Pre-Primary was a thrilling piece. The coaching class children also sang Patriotic songs.
The President of the Lion`s Club of Mormugao, appreciated the work of the Centre and thanked Sisters for working tirelessly for the betterment of the less fortunate ones; for these neglected souls whom the society looks down upon. That to the world they are the labeled one but in reality they have become stars who are shinning in the different corners of the world moreover in our own State. All because of the Sisters who are always seen toiling hard to give these urchins a better future; to make their life worth living! Later prizes were distributed so too small gifts given to make all the children happy. The refreshments brought more joy and smiles on the faces of the children. There was excitement seen on the faces of the children, the anawins(poor) of the Lord!!
The curtains were drawn after vote of thanks that was proposed by Sr. Jeya sfn expressing gratitude of the dignitaries, well-wishers, all those present and the staff for their constant co-operation and for making this day a memorable one.
Yes!!! Asha Sadan Social Centre, has successfully completed 25 years of its existence in service. It was recalled that Baina was once the largest red-light area in the state with several sex-workers eking out a living, until it was demolished by the state Government a few years ago. Most of the children who were seen begging on the beaches belonged to the sex-workers. After the demolition the sex-workers spread out to the other parts of the state and continued with their profession. Many died of AIDS and left the children orphans. The sisters have been looking after the children for several years.
