By Ashwin Macwan SDB for BIS Mumbai

Dristi Don Bosco Kapadvanj successfully concluded its vibrant 15-day Summer Camp with a grand Bal Mela (Children’s Fair) held on May 15, 2026 at the Don Bosco Kapadvanj campus. The event marked the joyful culmination of a series of educational and recreational activities conducted in 22 villages across Kapadvanj Taluka from May 1 to 14, 2026.

The Summer Camp was organized with the aim of providing children with meaningful and enriching experiences during their vacation. Instead of spending excessive time on mobile phones and television, the children were encouraged to engage in a variety of constructive activities such as indoor and outdoor games, creative workshops, storytelling, traditional games, picnics, and forest meals. These activities helped foster teamwork, creativity, discipline, and social interaction among the participants.

A total of 429 children from 20 villages enthusiastically participated in the concluding Bal Mela. The chief guest for the occasion was Gopal Shah, a respected social leader from Kapadvanj. Addressing the children, he shared a brief but powerful message: “A disciplined life is the foundation for truly enjoying freedom.” His words inspired the children to value self-discipline and responsibility in their daily lives.

Also present at the event were Fr Pratap Damor, Manager of the institute, along with Salesian Community and staff members who played a key role in organizing the camp.

The morning session featured 11 exciting game stalls, where children participated in fun challenges and earned coupons upon winning. These coupons could later be exchanged at a special prize counter for a variety of gifts. The children thoroughly enjoyed both the games and the opportunity to collect prizes.

Following lunch, the celebration continued with a colorful cultural program. Children from seven villages presented lively performances, including Garba and dances, showcasing their talents and cultural heritage. The program concluded with all the children joining together in a joyful group dance and Garba.

As a token of appreciation, every child and volunteer received useful gifts, including a file folder, water bottle, and writing clipboard. Mr Sanjay Parmar, DRISTI staff in charge of the event thanked each and everyone involved in making this Bal Mela a success.

The Bal Mela was a memorable and meaningful conclusion to a Summer Camp that nurtured learning, friendship, and joyful growth among hundreds of village children.