Pune, 05th November 2024: In the unique Madhurangan project established by the Swaroopseva Foundation for the underprivileged communities at Khatpewadi, Bhukum in Pune, tribal children from various parts of Maharashtra come every year to celebrate a special Diwali festival. This year, 40 tribal children from the Lok Biradari Ashram School started by the esteemed Dr. Prakash Amte in Hemalkasa, Gadchiroli, arrived at Madhurangan for a 5-day Diwali celebration. After traveling for a total of 30 hours by bus and train, these children, along with two teachers, reached Pune on Thursday, October 31. For many of them, this was their first ever train journey.

The volunteers of Swaroopseva warmly welcomed these special guests with a traditional aarti and greeted them at Madhurangan. During these five days, the children were given fragrant herbal baths. They were then provided with new clothes, went for temple visits, enjoyed diwali snacks, and had the opportunity to explore the surroundings. Famous children's author Mr. Rajivji Tambe also visited the children to engage in interactive storytelling sessions with them. To enhance their entertainment, magic shows, theater performances, and activities like geometry through games were organized.

On Sunday, these children visited the Sinhagad Fort and the Shivashrishti in Ambegaon.

Ajit Apte from Shivashrishti introduced them to the glorious history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Descendants of the Maratha navy and the Peshwas also met these children at the grand Zunjhar Wada in Durugadara. The renowned Giripremi Mountaineering club from Pune, which specializes in mountaineering, took responsibility for the children's trekking activities. They also shared valuable insights on topics like the Sahyadri and Himalayan mountain ranges, mountaineering, and Maharashtra’s historic fortresses.

The children performed their traditional tribal dance from Bhamragad, Gadchiroli, in their traditional attire. The foundation's volunteers organized various competitions for the children. Throughout the five days, from Narak Chaturthi to Bhau Beej, delicious Diwali snacks were served, along with a variety of special dishes that the children would enjoy. Additionally, they made rangolis, lit lamps, set up sky lanterns, burst crackers, and celebrated Bhau Beej, fully experiencing the joy and excitement of Diwali, just like it is celebrated at home.

This memorable Diwali celebration was made possible with the generous contributions of local citizens, who provided financial support, grains, vegetables, new clothes, crackers, educational materials, books, and snacks. The efforts of the Swaroopseva and Giripremi volunteers ensured the successful organization of this initiative, stated a press release.