Oasis India and Reach organised a Christmas celebration programme for 775 girls and boys of Bangalore’s eight government-run State Homes on December 14.

The programme included a variety of songs, dances and skits by the staff of Oasis India and the children from the homes. A special attraction was the production of The Pied Piper, a play in kannada performed by the State Home Children (Bommanahalli Kinderajogi). This play was arranged by C Lakshamana, director of Rangakale Creations, who has written and directed many plays.

“Most of these children have run away from home or have been rescued from forced labour and have never performed on stage - we want to give them an opportunity”, says Sujatha Prakash, After-care co-ordinator, Oasis India.

“We are involved with the repartriation of these children, but for many, going back to their families has, for various reasons, become close to impossible. It is especially for these children that we want to convey the message of hope and of a bright future”, she adds.

Other NGOs were also invited to the programme to help develop partnerships with like-minded organisations as well as with the government to deliver better future for these children.