Kasthuri (left) serving food to the children during a Deepavali celebration at Arutjothee Yoga Academy in Island Glades.
A SMALL gesture brought big smiles to the faces of children from Penang Shan Children’s Home when they received goodie bags during an early Deepavali celebration.
The 13 children could hardly contain their excitement as they lined up to receive the goodies from yoga teacher R. Kasthuri Kalaichelvi.
Kasthuri, who organised the event for the first time, said she wanted the children to feel special.
She said the celebration was also held in conjunction with the birthday of Saint Ramalinga Swamy, commonly known as Vallalar who was born in 1823.
“It is not just about food or gifts, but about showing the children that they are cared for and remembered,” she said during the event at the Arutjothee Yoga Academy in Island Glades.
The children watched a brief presentation on the saint’s life and his teachings, before they joined in a cake-cutting ceremony.
They later enjoyed a vegetarian dinner and were presented with the festive goodies.
Eight-year-old R. Kabilan Nair, who joined the home just a month ago, said he loved the festive season because it meant visiting new places and enjoying good food and treats.
“This is my first Deepavali at the home.
“I have made many friends and already received my new clothes for the celebration.
“I can’t wait for the big day.”
S. Shalini, 13, who has lived at the home for the past three years, said: “Deepavali is a time for reflection and prayer.
“I wish and pray that all children in the world will always be happy and healthy.”
She added that she would be celebrating the festival at her uncle’s home this year.
Penang Shan Children’s Home adviser Datuk N. Vamathevan expressed his appreciation to the organisers for hosting the event.
“The children always look forward to Deepavali, but this year was extra special thanks to these generous individuals.
“It is wonderful to see the community come together,” he said.
