by Ratandeep Chawla for BIS Mumbai

The mini edition of ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham (KKKG) – Mera Hero Kaun’, a community outreach program organized by Prafulta, took place on September 22, 2024, at St Dominic Savio High School. This remarkable initiative by Shalu Mehrotra, a senior psychotherapist under the guidance of Father Godfrey DSa, the director of Prafulta - Andheri, aimed at fostering emotional well-being. It reached out to over 300 children from nearby bastis, evening school students, and boarders from standards 5 to 10, as well as their parents. 

The event was free of cost for the students. It was gracefully supported by L&T Hydrocarbon, and steered passionately by a dedicated team of 16 counselors and 25 L&T volunteers.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the program unfolded with a prayer dance performed by talented basti students, This was followed by an inspiring interview with the chief guest Mr Amin Sheikh, the visionary behind the Bombay to Barcelona Café, a dream project realized to empower street children. Rising from the streets himself, Mr Sheikh shared his extraordinary journey of perseverance, resilience, and determination, inspiring the audience with his message of never giving up, even when his dream to start such a café was ridiculed. His story struck a deep chord, inspiring not only the children but also the parents in attendance. Mr Amin’s powerful narrative set the tone for group discussions, where children in small groups reflected on qualities needed to face life's difficulties and identified their personal heroes. 

The discussions, guided by counselors and L&T volunteers also encouraged the children to embody these qualities through actions and movement, creating a dynamic and interactive experience.

A strong emphasis was placed on mindfulness, particularly regarding the overuse of mobile phones, encouraging students to focus on achieving their dreams and goals rather than being distracted by technology. One 8th-grade student said, “I really liked what Amin sir shared with us. Now I feel I have that strength within me to achieve whatever I set my mind to. I enjoyed the program a lot.”

For the first time, L&T volunteers experienced the magic of such a program. One volunteer commented, “The program was exceptionally well-organized. The trained counselors were amazing at engaging the students, and the insights shared were valuable.”

Simultaneously, a special session for parents took place, focusing on parenting strategies and emotional support for their children. One parent remarked, “The session was very informative. The kids learned so much and seemed to really enjoy themselves.”

The day concluded on a joyful note, as everyone—students, parents, counselors, and volunteers—joined in a lively dance, filling the atmosphere with positivity and energy.

As the curtains fell on this heartwarming initiative, a common sentiment echoed among the counselors and organizers: “It was indeed a satisfying experience to be part of this wonderful program KKKG – Mera Hero Kaun.”