by Cl. Sachin Tribhuvan SDB
SNEHALAYA-GUJARAT, NOVEMBER 19, 2014: On November 14, 2014 Don Bosco Snehalaya, Baroda celebrated 'Bal Mela Day.' The day began with a prayer service. Children, staff members 
and the management were present for the same. With the best wishes of the Director of Snehalya, the animators began the celebrations. The theme for the 'Bal Mela Day' was "Heal the World."
It was mainly organized for the poor and marginalized children. The children from different slums and railway platforms of Vadodara were present. There were about 1,132 children who participated in this programme. At 10:00 a.m., the game stalls were opened which went on till 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon. There were 24 game stalls. The children enjoyed the programme. Volunteers from different NGO's and Colleges help the animators to conduct the programme. At 1:00 p.m., the children were served lunch after which, the floor was open to the children to showcase their unique talents. At 3:00 p.m., the DJ and the magic show were put up by professionals. At 4:30 p.m., children were given snacks and were fresh for the evening's cultural programme.
The cultural programme began at 6:00 p.m. by invoking the presence of God. The Director of Snehalaya Fr. George Miranda sdb along with the chief guest Mrs. Megha Tewar and the student's representatives from Snehalaya Ravi and Bishes lighted the lamp. Fr. George welcomed the gathering and gave a beautiful message on the theme "Heal the World". The students of Snehalaya put up three contemporary dances and a skit based on the street children.
On the eve of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru's Birthday, the Management of Snehalaya gave the special awards to the children who lived their lives as good human beings. Rua team stood first in Snehalaya. They were given t-shirts and pants as a gift. The captain of Rua team, Ajay Mali was awarded 'The Best Captain' of Don Bosco Snehalaya award. The chief guest then gave a short message. She urged everyone to be loving and caring just like Pandit Jawaharla Nehru. At the end of the programme, Sir Francis Dodia thanked everyone, after which the National Anthem was sung. The assembly then partook of a sumptuous dinner.