Pune: Joyful Celebration

From Pune 2011

In India, there is an art to celebration, and we are lucky enought to see many of the facets of celebration with each distribution.

Today we were greeted with music and dancing of both children and adults. We were serenaded by the children and were able to watch a number of intricate traditional dances by students enthusiastic to show themselves at their best. The teacher and girls explained the art of drawing with coloured sand and they did a collaborative demonstration for us.

As much as we are emphasizing the importance of education to the children, the children are educating us on many aspects of India's culture.

From Pune 2011

Another important part of the art of celebration is the sharing of food. My team has thoroughly enjoyed the meals we have shared with our Indian partners. Chickpeas and chapattis, dal and delicious spices, are all an intergral part of our day -- meals best eaten with our hands, knee to knee with our whole team. Although our lips are usually burning by the end of the meal, the food is delicious and we will bring home many new recipies to try in Canada.

It is a daily privilege to witness first-hand the importance of the arts in binding communities in joyful celebration.

Team Pune, 2011

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