Time for Celebration!
Time for Celebration!

Time for Celebration!

March 2, 2024

After the long journey from Kerala my taxi dropped me at my fabulous guesthouse. The location couldn’t be better! A bit far from the village but happy to be away from the chaos. I was debating whether to go see my friend Saigeetha at her school.  Maybe I would wait till tomorrow, her off day. Maybe not, why not drop in for a quick hi saying I’ve arrived.

I bucket bathed, changed and strolled off in the mid day sun on the long trek to the school. Only a 30 minute walk, but in 37 degrees it felt a lot longer! It was 3 o’clock in the afternoon when I showed up. Some of the teenage girls were just finishing up a beautiful ragoli design at the entrance to the school. It read “Happy 24 Year Anniversary”. Wow, that was incredbile! What timing?!?

Saigeetha, very busy, told me the program was to begin at 6 pm and I must come. Yes, I must. We shared a quick hello, then I left, to rest up, eat and be back in time for the program. It is always an epic event in the village.



A bit of the backstory of the school. I met Saigeetha and her husband, Naganna, nearly 25 years ago. At that time they were holding classes on the rooftops off their two room home. They had a vision of what they wanted for the future. There was a few of us who joined with them holding this vision. It wasn’t long before the funds were raised then the property where the school stands now was purchased. I was in Canada when the land was purchased I came back to India just in time for the breaking of the ground for the construction to begin. I helped with documenting the process, taking photos, and sharing them with the investors. It was an amazing experience, and I am so grateful to have been part of.

During the coming years I came to India nearly every winter and was involved with the school. During my lengthy stays in Parthi I did some seva with the small children, singing with them, teaching songs about values, always with actions. I loved every moment! They had a room built that I would stay in at the school, when I was in India. …jump forward to today…

While in Kerala, my departure date kept changing my initial plan was to arrive tomorrow. Now it’s clear why the plan changed. Even though I was tired from the journey and regardless of this incessant coughing and my congested chest I was not going to miss this!


I arrived at an overflowing school compound packed to the brim with teachers, children, parents, and a few uninvited party crashers! I had never seen such a huge crowd for the school anniversary celebration before!


Tulsi led me to a seat at the front, alongside Saigeetha’s mother. Upon realizing who was being seated with her she smiled the biggest smile! I hadn’t seen her for a quite a few years and have known her for a long time. She doesn’t speak English. I don’t speak Telugu. We held hands and our eyes told the story. Saigeetha and I had been through a lot over the years. I happened to arrive in India many years ago a few days before her husband died. Spirit brought me there I stayed in the room at the school and she shared her life story, unedited. We became very close. I was so grateful to be brought there at that time. Her mother was often present during that time.


Back to the program! For five exciting hours the children danced and danced. In their glory, excited to take part in their portion of the show. Every child so excited and full of energy. Each waited patiently for hours to get up on stage for their few minutes. In the hours I was there i only witnessed a couple of melt downs, kindergarten children with stage fright. On the average they were up their shining. Proud of their accomplishments. It didn’t matter that their belt was coming undone, pants sliding down, little sari’s coming untucked and dishevelled. The show must go on. Not an iota of self conciousness, only joy.


I managed to stay for three hours enjoying the endless groups of children, dancing, dressed in beautiful dresses, costumes, many receiving medals for achievement in their studies or sports.

The satisfaction of their accomplishments was beautiful to witness. With each award the MC saying over the mic “appreciate them!!!” Everyone clapping:)

By 9 o’clock I was very tired. Time to say good bye to a long day and incredibly full day!

So blessed to be here!

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