Kshana - Moments of Happiness

We walked into the verdant surroundings of Assisi Bhavan on the afternoon of April 10, 2011. Tucked in a corner of a road behind Oberoi Mall, Goregaon, this serene expanse of tranquillity is just what these 60-odd residents need. The happy-go-lucky residents live life to the fullest, enjoy every moment that they have and cherish each memory.

Armed with earthen pots, flower saplings and paints — we marched into their lovely abode and got them to put their painting skills to work! They readily took up the challenge and rolled their sleeves up! Each resident painted these pots in whichever way they liked and showed it off to the rest of us with such pride. We had mangoes, flowers, rainbows and various colourful patterns! All the pots were arranged neatly in the open area to dry. They were done with this activity in a matter of 45 minutes and were ready for the next part.

Next, we set up a big huge screen, a projector, connected a laptop and speakers and screened ‘Madagascar’, the animated movie for them. They became one with the animation, squealing and laughing at almost every second! The interval came, with some lovely veg. cutlets, mawa cakes and cool chaas.

Each and every one of them enjoyed the evening, blessed us and wanted us back really soon!

Revisiting Assissi Bhavan

It is amazing to see a thought being transformed into reality. As per our new way of holding events, Kshana had its second visit at the Goregaon-based old-age home on February 20, 2011. Remember we had set out this year to make a sustainable difference in someone’s life and mind you, it’s not the easiest task.

We had to think a lot on the activities that will avoid a repetition and add value to their lives, at the same time. Also the biggest challenge was their physical ability and mental willingness to participate. However, our plus point was the fact that we had already held an event there and pretty much knew what their likes and dislikes were. So we set out to hold a game and a value adding session with them.

We decided to play ‘Passing the Parcel’ but with a twist, instead of eliminations we granted them a wish every time their turn came. This was one of the few practically possible games and the twist helped us infuse some positivity there. The response was first-class. They sang songs and poems, jived, did a garba and even shared anecdotes that got us all hooked. This helped us start the next activity; the mood was brilliantly set for some more delight.

For the second activity, we planned a Laughter Therapy Session by Mr. Atmaram Torane, a laughter enthusiast who obliged to our request in the very first call. After a brief introduction and information about how it helps us stay younger and healthier, Mr. Torane infected us with some wholehearted, jaw-aching laughter. His simple yet innovative ways of laughing were very effective and engaging. Some laughs were merely objective while others had a deeper meaning to it. He charmingly got all the volunteers involved which elevated the mood.

As dinnertime approached, the residents were then treated to some yummy Upma and Frooti before we could bid our farewells.

Whether it was witty Maggie Nanny or the enthusiastic 90-year-old Angie Aunty or the talented and handsome Jeffry or any of the other smiling faces; Assissi Bhavan remains a special place from where we always return with our hearts filled with hope and a bag full of enthusiasm.