A time to remember

Actress Pooja Gandhi sang and danced with the children. She also obliged for pictures with them, thus bringing a smile on their faces. It was a memorable day for the 150 odd children who came for the carnival.

There were various stalls for the children like face-painting, games like basketball, tag the donkey’s nose, target shooting and balloon shooting.  There was also a magic show by Nagendra Prasad.

The children were each given a book, pencil set and some other stationary that would be useful for them. And they walked away with little toys, balloons in their hands and colourful headgears that were also made from balloons.

Sharing her experience with Metrolife, Pooja Gandhi says that she really enjoyed her time with the children. “The children made me dance and sing along with them. I could see their faces light up and they really had a good time. It’s not often that these children get a chance like this. Such initiatives must be encouraged,” said Pooja.    

The three NGOs that were hand-picked for the carnival were Socare India, Family Services and Agastya International Foundation. They were chosen for their substantial contribution to society. The event hoped to raise funds for the children.

It was also in appreciation and recognition of the social development work done by IACC Karnataka’s members.   A Gurudutt, chairman, IACC Karnataka said, “Karnataka Branch of IACC has played an important role in building this friendship over the last three to four decades. The city of Bangalore has played host to thousands of visiting American business professionals and tourists, some of whom have made it their home away from home.” 

Katerine Dhanani, who is with the US Consulate said, “For Americans living in India, this is a time not only to connect with family and neighbours but also to appreciate the new friends made overseas.”

V Srinivasan, senior vice-chairman with IACC says that they have been successful in holding this initiative every year.

“We tell all our sponsors that this is also a kind of corporate social responsibility. It’s also a time when we generously give to those we care and the less privileged ones,” he said.  
The IACC also handed over the contribution to the three NGOS later in the day at an eventful evening that saw dance performances by the SoCare India and Sakrupa and also taekwondo by the students of the NGO.