Celebrate for a Cause

Celebrating special days meaningfully, they say, adds significance to the celebration. One such special day is Father’s Day, which celebrates the superhero figure in every child’s life.

A father serves as a guide, an inspiration, a motivator and a support system. Father’s Day reminds us of fathers’ vital role in shaping and directing their children’s lives. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the good deeds and sacrifices these superheroes make for their families.

Father’s Day 2024

Father’s Day is unique because, unlike most other special days, it isn’t associated with a specific date. It is observed annually on the third Sunday in June in several nations, including the US, India, the UK, and Canada. In 2024, Father’s Day will be celebrated on 16 June. However, it is worth noting that there are other countries, such as Australia, Norway, Sweden and Finland, which observe it on some other day instead of the third Sunday in June.

How Father’s Day Originated

Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, is credited with the concept of Father’s Day in the United States. She wanted to pay tribute to her own Civil War veteran father, William Smart, who had raised his children alone on a farm in the eastern part of Washington. Sonora presented The Spokane Ministerial Alliance with the concept of Father’s Day in 1909. Originally, this day was to be observed on 5 June, her father’s birthday. However, the clergy were pressed for time when it came to writing their inaugural sermons. As a result, the first Father’s Day was observed on the third Sunday of June in 1910.

A proclamation designating Father’s Day as an official national day was signed by US President Richard Nixon in 1972. This served as the source of inspiration for Father’s Day celebrations in other parts of the world.

Celebrate Father’s Day with Akshaya Patra

Spending time together on Father’s Day and making enduring memories is a great idea. In India, many people also use this time to express gratitude to and recognise the important male role models in their lives. Globally, on this specific day, numerous non-governmental organisations (NGOs) endeavour to honour fathers; The Akshaya Patra Foundation is one of them.

At Akshaya Patra, we uphold the Father’s Day spirit by taking care of children’s nutrition and ensuring that fathers across 72 locations have one less thing to worry about. With the help of the government and donors, we channelise resources to implement the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (Mid-Day Meal Programme) nutrition and education. Under this programme, we serve regular mid-day meals to over 2.2 million children in government and government-aided schools across India.

Here is a story of how Akshaya Patra is helping fathers across the country.

Bishnu Gowala is sheer proof that humanity exists. Sole breadwinner in the family, Bishnu works as a mason and tries his best to feed a large family of eight. He lives with his parents, his wife, four children (three sons and a daughter), and a sister and her son. His youngest son, Ankush is studying in IV at Murmuria Line No. 1 LPS, Jorhat, Assam. He receives hot and tasty meals daily from Akshaya Patra at school every day. Speaking of the food his son receives, Bishnu says, “I have to feed eight people thrice every day. But with Ankush getting lunch every day in school, I don’t have to worry about his one meal for the day. He is pleased with the food served here.”

Your contribution to Akshaya Patra will help realise a father’s desire to see his child focus on school and extracurricular activities while eating at least one healthy meal every day. Support Akshaya Patra’s efforts to implement the Mid-Day Meal Programme. Donate online to support freshly cooked meals.

Happy Father’s Day to all fathers who work diligently to provide for their families! Together, we honour and salute you!

World Environment Day is observed on June 5 every year to raise awareness about the importance of preserving a clean, healthy environment and the need for everyone to take action to address environmental issues. We at The Akshaya Patra Foundation might be just a small player in environmental protection, but we will do our best. As an NGO, we strive to minimise our environmental impact by incorporating green practices in our operations.

We serve over 2.2 million children through our kitchens in 72 locations across 16 states and two union territories. Here are a few practices which we have incorporated in our kitchen operations to in our effort to contribute to a greener planet.

Renewable Energy

As part of its sustainability processes, our kitchens have made a strategic shift to renewable sources of energy through the following.

Solar Energy: In 27 kitchens, we have adopted solar energy as a power-saving option by installing solar panels. These kitchens use photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight directly into power. The installed capacity of these solar panels is 1,991 kWh.

Biomass Briquettes: Our kitchens now use biomass briquettes instead of coal and charcoal for energy production, thus protecting finite, non-renewable resources.

Biogas: As part of our green initiative, we have set up biogas plants in 17 of our kitchens to convert organic waste into energy. These plants are cost-effective and produce organic manure, which is a more sustainable fertiliser than artificial ones and reduces reliance on LPG. The total capacity of these biogas plants is 15,000 kg.

Electric Vehicles: We have adopted 56 electric vehicles (EVs) in our fleet of mid-day meal delivery vehicles to lower our energy use and pollution levels. These measures enable us to reduce fuel expenses and lower carbon emissions.

Our goal is to transition to 50% renewable electricity by 2030 and 50% electric vehicles by 2035.

Waste Management
We actively work to minimise waste and also treat waste before releasing it into the environment.

FIFO and FEFO Implementation: Our kitchens use the FIFO (First In-First Out) and FEFO (First Expiry-First Out) techniques when issuing raw materials for production to ensure that perishable commodities are used first. This approach helps our kitchens reduce waste and maximise the utilisation of raw materials by correctly identifying, storing and retrieving the raw materials in an appropriate manner.

We also practice recycling waste such as plastic and metal waste and adopt and promote source segregation of waste.

Water Management

Yet another environmental initiative that our kitchens have implemented is the treatment of wastewater with the help of the steps below.

Effluent Treatment Plants: Every kitchen has a sewage treatment plant to ensure proper treatment, disposal and recycling of kitchen waste.

Reed Bed Plants: Our kitchens use this technology to prevent the direct release of untreated water into the environment. It is a natural method of purifying wastewater to make it suitable for use in cleaning outdoor kitchen areas and irrigation.

Our goal is to identify and execute water management solutions by 2030 to reduce non-cooking water usage by 50%. We are also looking into the feasibility of adopting rainwater harvesting at all locations by 2030.

Akshaya Patra and UN SDG 7.2

At The Akshaya Patra Foundation, sustainability is fundamental to all we do because we recognise the importance of saving the environment and conserving natural resources. By integrating environmental concerns into our operations, we are setting a precedent for corporate social responsibility projects that prioritise both social effect and environmental stewardship. Our efforts align with a key UN Sustainable Development Goal, SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy, contributing to Target 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

We take our environment seriously. Through the aforementioned green practices, we ensure that we do our bit for a healthy planet while we serve nutritious mid-day meals to children to support their nutrition and education.

We invite you to be a part of our efforts. Together, we can create a bright future for children. Share your thoughts or donate online and join Akshaya Patra’s efforts to nourish children and nurture change in a sustainable way.

Akshaya Tritiya has significant cultural and religious importance for both Hindus and Jains. For many people across India, Akshaya Tritiya is a day of good fortune and prosperity. This festival is considered auspicious for starting new projects like new job, new house, new vehicle, new venture, etc., making investments, buying gold and conducting other religious ceremonies.

The Essence of Akshaya Tritiya

In the spirit of Akshaya Tritiya, a day symbolising eternal prosperity and abundance, we are reminded of doing good. Performing good deeds on this day is believed to bring good luck and prosperity that can last for the whole year. As an NGO committed to providing mid-day meals to underprivileged children, we recognise the transformative power of giving nutritious food, not just as sustenance but as a symbol of hope and opportunity.

Celebrations Across India

While the essence of Akshaya Tritiya remains the same, its celebration varies across different regions of India.

Uttar Pradesh

A common belief prevails in Vrindavan that this day is the first day of creation. Only on this day, the feet of Lord Krishna (Banke Bihari) is seen in Banke Bihari temple. Many people across the world travel to Uttar Pradesh to seek blessings for a whole year of abundance.

Odisha

Akshaya Tritiya marks the beginning of the construction of ‘rath’ (chariot) for the Rath Yatra. As a part of the festivities, farmers offer seeds to Goddess Lakshmi and start sowing seeds in their fields, praying for a rich harvest season. Also, in the western part of this state, as a belief, people avoid eating green leafy vegetables as it brings bad luck.

Maharashtra

Women in Maharashtra gather and invoke Goddess Gowri as she is a symbol of marital bliss. They exchange haldi and kumkum and pray for the well-being and long life of their husbands.

West Bengal

To bring luck and prosperity in their lives, businessmen and traders perform religious functions and poojas to worship Goddess Lakshmi at their homes and offices. They also buy gold with a belief that it will bring good luck for the whole year.

Rituals associated with Akshaya Tritiya

• Devotees of Lord Vishnu observe a fast and engage in charitable activities such as distributing food, clothing and oil
• Tulsi (holy basil), is incorporated into various dishes offered to the deity, which are later distributed as prasad.
• Businessmen perform a special puja called Halkhata to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi before initiating the new financial year, as they are believed to be associated with prosperity.
• As the day symbolises prosperity and abundance, majority of the population purchase gold and silver jewellery for good fortune.
• People take a dip in the sacred waters of Ganga (Ganges), drawing devotees to the ghats of Haridwar and Varanasi.
• In Jainism, some people conclude their year-long penance or tapasya by breaking their fast with sugarcane juice.
• Devotees apply sandalwood paste to the idol of Lord Krishna, believing it grants entry to heaven.

Inherit good deeds on Akshaya Tritiya by doing Anna Daan in the form of mid-day meals (MDM). As an NGO in India that implements the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (formerly called the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Programme), we feed 2.2 million children with hot and nutritious meals in 72 locations across the country.

As we celebrate this Akshaya Tritiya, let us support children coming from challenging socio-economic backgrounds. Imbibe the spirit of generosity by nourishing underprivileged children. Serve MDMs with your online donations.

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“The enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being.” – Constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Commemorating its inception on April 7, 1948, the World Health Organisation chose to mark April 7 of every year as World Health Day, which went into force in 1950. This day highlights health-related issues of global concern. This year’s theme is My Health, My Right which supports the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health.

Having good health is a basic human right. Everybody should be able to get good nutrition, the necessary medical treatment, access to safe drinking water and more. As per a study conducted by Harvard University, good nutrition helps fuel your body. The food you eat provides the nutrients your body needs to maintain your brain, muscle, bone, nerves, skin, blood circulation and immune system.

A society where everyone is in good health and can lead happy, fulfilling lives is what the theme My Health, My Right stresses on. And for good health, the first and foremost need is good nutrition. As the implementing partner of the Government of India’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan, we, at The Akshaya Patra Foundation, strive to improve the general health of school-aged children by providing them nutritious mid-day meals.

Mid-day Meals and General Health

Macronutrients are essential to facilitate proper growth during the developmental years and therefore, are important ingredients of wholesome mid-day meals for children. Nutrient-dense foods such as proteins, whole grains, healthy fats and fresh fruits and vegetables are indicative of a healthy diet.
Proper nutrition also plays a protective role against illnesses and ailments that can impede a child’s development. This supports the right of children to the best possible health. A healthy childhood sets the stage for a healthy adulthood and nutritious mid-day meals lay the foundation for that healthy childhood.

According to the guidelines of the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan, mid-day meals should also provide children important micronutrients like iron, zinc, folic acid, vitamin A and so on. We meticulously design and prepare mid-day meals whilst adhering to these guidelines.

Mid-day meals have a significant impact on children coming from weaker socio-economic backgrounds. It is often challenging for parents to send their children to school. The guarantee of a daily meal serves as an incentive for parents to enrol their children in school. Children who eat a healthy school lunch each day are better able to focus in class. For a child’s physical and cognitive growth, proper diet is crucial. Enhancing their ability to focus leads to increased participation in activities and improved academic success.

In an effort to provide a healthy foundation for development during important phases, we also feed cooked meals to pregnant and nursing mothers as well as children aged three to six in Anganwadi centres. Additionally, we feed wholesome, freshly prepared meals to mothers in the ashrams in Vrindavan to ensure that they are not devoid of healthy meals. These meals guarantee that the women lead a life of dignity and respect.

In a letter addressed to Akshaya Patra for achieving the remarkable milestone of serving 4 billion meals, Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi congratulated the collective efforts of those involved. He said: “This achievement stands as a testament to an unwavering commitment to eradicate hunger and provide nourishment to humanity.”

That good nutrition is one of the most important aspects of good health is backed by several studies. As a matter of fact, eating well is the foundation for a healthy and fulfilling life. Good nutrition is important, no matter the age. At Akshaya Patra, we have always aimed to lay a solid and healthy foundation for both young and old as we believe with conviction that it is their right.

This World Health Day, you can help those in need eat better by contributing to our feeding programmes. You also get a tax exemption of 50% under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act on your contribution.

Holi is one of the most popular festivals in India that revels the spirit of love, unity and togetherness. On this day, people cover each other in colours and add vibrancy in each other’s lives. However, Holi has a deeper significance, which makes it worthwhile to celebrate. It is an occasion to rejoice in new beginnings – the beginning of the spring season and the triumph of good over evil.

It is celebrated every year on Purnima or the day of the full moon. It is a two-day festival and the day before Holi is known as Holika Dahan. On this day, a puja (or prayer) is held around a bonfire. The purpose of the bonfire is purging all negativity and evil. The Holi celebration takes place the following day, right after the full moon. The exchange of bright colours represents the interchange of happiness and love.

Every region of India celebrates Holi according to its own customs. For instance, Uttar Pradesh is renowned for its Holi celebrations. The liveliest Holi celebrations take place in Mathura, which is also the home of Lord Krishna. Days are spent celebrating here, with a plethora of customs, cultural events, and parades filling the streets with joy and happiness. In Vrindavan, spectacular celebrations unfold on the banks of Ganges and the streets of the city. Vrindavan is also known for Phoolon Wali Holi (Holi celebrated with flower petals). In general, the northern part of India hosts a colourful Holi celebration.

In east India, Holi is celebrated as Basanta Utsav (spring festival). In Bengal, it is known as Dol Yatra where the idols of Radha and Krishna are placed on swings and worshipped accompanied by singing of bhajans (devotional songs) and playing of colours. In Manipur, Holi is known as Yaosang in which folk dances and songs are performed under the moonlight.

Down south, the celebrations include exchange of sweets and are often limited to worshipping Lord Krishna and other temple customs.

People normally start preparing for Holi a few days in advance by purchasing sweets, water guns and gulaal (coloured powder). On the day of the festival, individuals don white attire and congregate at gatherings, in public areas or in their homes to play with colours.

What you can do this Holi

To make the most of Holi celebration and make it memorable, here are a few things that you can do:

Celebrate with family and friends

You can make this day cherishable by spending quality time with friends and family. Tune in with the festive spirit by smearing gulaal and splashing coloured water on each other. Dance to the beats of music and relish traditional dishes together. Having a good time with near ones on this day can create memories that you can cherish for a lifetime.

Celebrate by making a difference

While you rejoice with your loved ones, amplify happiness and love this Holi. You can make a difference in the lives of those with limited resources. For instance, children with water guns and colourful faces are the main attraction of Holi celebration, but many children do not have the privilege to be a part of this happiness. However, you can add colours into their lives with your compassion and generosity. You can spend time with these children and celebrate the festival. This Holi, you can also donate towards their food and education to have a long-term impact.

Colour a child’s life with Akshaya Patra

This Holi, you may make a commitment to give this day a new purpose by supporting our efforts to end classroom hunger. As we talk about fighting the evil during Holi, we want to draw attention to how critical it is to end classroom hunger. Every child enrolled in government school benefits from the mid-day meals they receive from Akshaya Patra under the government’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal or MDM Programme).

To ensure that a child receives a high-quality education and that the learning curve is upward and continuous, adequate nutrition is crucial. Children’s hunger in the classroom is satisfied by a balanced diet, which also aids in their ability to concentrate on their studies and extracurricular activities. In addition to improving socialisation, access to healthy food solves the problem of childhood malnutrition. By encouraging parents to send their children to school on a regular basis, a healthy mid-day meal also raises enrolment and retention rates in schools.

You have the opportunity to nourish and nurture a child this Holi by contributing ₹1,500. You can choose to sponsor a child’s meals for a whole year by contributing this amount. The good news is that you can benefit from a 50% tax exemption on your donation under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act.

This Holi, as you enjoy the festival of colours, please think about brightening a life by making a donation to feed the children.

Smear Colours. Share Happiness. Feed Children. Donate Online. Save Tax.

Observing a child’s eyes sparkle with happiness after receiving a hot and nourishing mid-day meal every school day is quite delightful. These meals not only give children the nourishment they need to grow, but also motivate for them to continue attending school. This reduces absenteeism and the dropout rate. Children are better able to work towards their dreams and are encouraged to continue their schooling as a result.

As we mark the adoption of the Indian Constitution on Republic Day, we should take a moment to consider our country’s achievements and make a commitment to developing young minds in order to create a bright and beautiful future.

Here are a few stories of some of the beneficiaries of The Akshaya Patra Foundation and their aspirations.

These children have big dreams. It the role of NGOs and our responsibility to support them in taking the next steps towards realising their dreams and aspirations and help in nation-building. As responsible Indian citizens, let’s come together to feed the children and provide them a reason to attend school each day.

Donate online to Akshaya Patra and help children realise their dreams. Save tax!

Purvi Vadapudi is a 6th grade student at Government Higher Primary School Ramalingeshwarnagar in Hubballi, Karnataka. She lives in a slum with her mother and a sister who is studying in 4th standard at the same school. Her mother works as a maid in nearby houses. Unfortunately, she lost her father during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her father, suffering from kidney failure, could not receive proper treatment due to the unavailability of beds in the hospital. This tragic incident inspired her to dream of becoming a doctor.

There are many girls like Purvi who have a lot of big dreams about their future. However, in a world where gender discrimination is still an unresolved issue, girls face a lot of challenges to pursue all their dreams. National Girl Child Day is celebrated to shed light on the challenges girls face in terms of education, nutrition, healthcare and safety.

Empower girls. Develop the Nation

As Michael Obama said, “No country can flourish if it stifles the potential of its women”. If India wants to become a $5 trillion economy by the end of 2025, it will not be possible if women, a significant proportion of citizens, are uneducated. The Government of India has come up with a lot of initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) and the National Plan of Action for the Girl Child to empower girls to reach their full potential. The PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (formerly known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) is one such scheme that can promote the education of girl children. When children receive nutritious meals in schools, it gives them the energy to concentrate on their studies and the courage to dream big. The promise of a healthy meal inspires parents to send their daughters to school. So girl children, who are usually the ones who forfeit dreams due to the financial struggles of the family, can pursue all their dreams and build a good future for themselves.

Create More Female Narratives of the Economy

In India, there still exists gender division for different jobs. Men are expected to be the sole breadwinners of a family and women to be a homemaker, a job which is not economically recognised. Education can break such stereotypes and expose girls to equal opportunities for building their career and thus contribute to the economic development of the country.

Choose the Best NGO in India to Make a Real Difference

NGOs play a crucial role in promoting the education of girls and thus minimising the gender gap in education and professional jobs. However, they need your support to extend their service to wider areas… and reach more people. Identifying the best NGOs in India is crucial to ensure that your donation is used efficiently and effectively. Through careful research and evaluation, understand their mission and choose the one that keeps transparency in their financial activities.

Feed Children with Akshaya Patra

Akshaya Patra is one of the best NGOs in India dedicated to work for child welfare. The organisation serves hot, tasty and nutritious meals to schoolchildren and thus ensures their health and education. Currently, we are feeding over 2 million children every day. Our mission is to feed 3 million by 2025. Through 71 kitchens spread across 16 states and 2 UTs, we are striving to reach students even those living in the most difficult terrain. Winning the ICAI’s Goldshield Award for ‘Excellence in Financial Reporting’ for seven consecutive years puts Akshaya Patra among the best NGOs in India, which enhance the donor’s confidence.

This National Girl Child Day, let’s embark on the journey of building a strong nation by empowering girls through education. Ensure their well-being and brings a positive impact in society.

Donate to Akshaya Patra and avail tax exemption.

Giving on a festival is considered auspicious. Giving on Makar Sankranti all the more so.

On one hand, it brings happiness and prosperity to the one who gives. On the other, it ensures that everyone has enough during the festive season and beyond. In Hindu tradition, there is no better daan than Annadaan—a simple act of kindness that translates to access to food for those in need.

When you donate to The Akshaya Patra Foundation, you ensure that children have access to daily nutritious mid-day meals and quality education.

Makar Sankranti – A Festival Celebrated Across India

Makar Sankranti is a major harvest festival celebrated by Hindus across India. It marks the transition of the Sun from the zodiac of Sagittarius (Dhanu rashi) to the zodiac of Capricorn (Makar rashi). Thus, the name Makar Sankranti. It also marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It almost always falls on 14 January as per the Gregorian calendar with the exception of a leap year when it falls on 15 February.

As 2024 is a leap year, Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on 15 February.

The term Makar Sankranti is popular in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal (or Poush Sankranti), Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. It is simply called Sankranti in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, whereas Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu in Assam, Uttarayana in Gujarat and Pongal or Thai Pongal in Tamil Nadu.

A joyous and vibrant festival, Makar Sankranti is celebrated by flying kites to the cries of Kai Po Che, lighting bonfires, singing folksongs, indulging in folk dances and visiting melas (fairs). People distribute til ke laddu, rice khichdi, puran poli, undhiyu, pongal, coconut chikki, payasam and other such delicacies to celebrate the festival.

Bhogi and Lohri

Across the country, festivities last for two to four days depending on the region. In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Maharashtra, the first day of the four-day Makar Sankranti festival is known as Bhogi and typically celebrated by lighting bonfires. Similarly, in Punjab and Haryana, the festival of Lohri is celebrated a day before Makar Sankranti by lighting bonfires, singing, dancing and eating festive food.

Makar Sankranti with Akshaya Patra

A Bengaluru-based NGO, Akshaya Patra serves as the implementing partner of the Government of India’s flagship school feeding programme, the PM POSHAN Abhiyaan [formerly the Mid-Day Meal Scheme]. The Foundation serves nutritious mid-day meals to over 2 million children in 15 states and 2 union territories with the support of the Central Government, state governments, corporate partners and individual donors. Your donation to Akshaya Patra… a single act of generosity translates to yearlong access to nutritious food and quality education to children in government schools.

You can donate to Akshaya Patra online. Donations to NGOs registered under the Income Tax Act are eligible for deduction under Section 80G of the IT Act.

Celebrate Makar Sankranti with Akshaya Patra beneficiaries this year. Online donations by generous individuals such as yourself help us ensure their continued access to nutrition and education, thus paving the way for them to carve a bright future for themselves, their families and the country as a whole.

Together, let’s ensure that children in India don’t have to choose between food and education… let’s ensure that their dreams soar high like the colourful kites dotting the sky this festive season.

What makes a year truly remarkable? As we approach 2024, let’s reflect on this question.

Each year passes by with a fair share of experiences, which can be seen either as blessings or lessons.

Through all such encounters, what we ultimately seek is to grow as better human beings. However, isn’t all this futile if you are not lending a helping hand to those in need.

Like Akshaya Patra, numerous NGOs in India are working with dedication to bring significant change in society. In order to conduct their programmes effectively, they need support. With a simple online donation, you can help these organisations in their pursuit of a better world for everyone.

Together, Let’s Put Wings on their Dreams

As an NGO for children in India, Akshaya Patra implements the government’s Mid-Day Meal (MDM) Programme (PM POSHAN Abhiyaan) to address the nutritional deficiencies in schoolchildren. This new year, consider supporting Akshaya Patra to nurture dreams of millions of children and make this year a truly remarkable one.

By making an online donation, you can also avail tax exemption.

He loves mid-day meals served in schools; his favourites are dal, rice, kadhi, roti, kheer, fruits, etc. Krishna is also active in extra-curricular activities in the school. He has a passion for dancing and has showcased his talent in a group dance performance during the Independence Day celebrations. His dream is to become an army officer and defend the country.

Apart from her study time, she spends time to help her mother at her shop and her father in their field. She loves the meal served at school. The school provides dal chawal, subzi roti, khichdi kheer of which her favourite is subzi roti. “Our teacher told us that we get these meals from the Akshaya Patra Foundation,” she says with a smile.

“One will be on a hill station, where I will sell Bhutte (corn on the cob) in the rainy season. The second will be functioning in summer and provide ice candies and Baraf Ka Gola (ice sorbet). And the third will be a multi-cuisine restaurant featuring dishes from across the world,” he says.

“I love dancing. When I grow up, I want to become a dancer,” she says. One of her school teachers is aware of her dream and often motivates and helps her practice regularly.

She has two sisters who are studying in class 3 and 5 at the same school. Her uncle is yet another important person in her life who fuels her dream to become an IAS officer. She loves the food supplied by Akshaya Patra at her school. She says, her favourite dish from the daily menu is sheera (an Indian sweet dish made from semolina).

Krishna, Sakshi, Hussain, Tanushree and Shivalila represent 2 million children in Akshaya Patra beneficiary schools across 15 states and 2 union territories. Your support enables the Foundation to serve nutritious mid-day meals to these 2 million children every school day to support their nutrition and education.

Your support puts wings on their dreams!

Here comes the festival of lights, Diwali! During this time, celebrants illuminate their house with candles, lamps, etc.

The celebration signifies the importance of nurturing the inner light within us because ultimately the festival is all about the victory of good over evil. Diwali, in essence, is a celebration of the triumph of light over darkness.

There are several stories behind the celebration of Diwali. Each varies depending on the regional and cultural contexts.

Here are some well-known stories behind the celebration of Diwali.

Return of Lord Rama- Diwali is celebrated to commemorate Lord Rama’s royal return to Ayodhya with his wife, Sita and brother, Lakshmana after defeating the 10-headed demon king Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit lamps as a gesture to welcome them back after 14 years of exile.

The victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura- Yet another story in Hindu mythology is the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura and freed 16,000 girls who were under his captivity. The day before Diwali is commemorated as Naraka Chaturdashi, the day on which Lord Krishna killed Narakasura. As part of the festivity, people in various parts of India burn effigies of the two demon kings. Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali. “Naraka” means hell and “Chaturdashi” means “fourteenth”. Many Hindus consider this as an auspicious occasion to pray and also conduct many rituals to get moksha for the departed souls.

Goddess Mahalakshmi- Another popular tradition that people follow during Diwali is worshipping goddess Lakshmi who is considered as the source of wealth and prosperity. This festival, believers also admire the romantic story of the goddess choosing Lord Vishnu as her husband on the night of Diwali. During this time, they conduct various pujas to entice the Goddess.

Celebrate India’s biggest festival by feeding children

Festivals are always the time for buying new clothes, accessories, gadgets, etc. During Diwali, people visit their dear ones, exchange gifts and enjoy spending time together. Sharing sweets is also a long-standing custom during Diwali, symbolizing the sweetness of life and the joy of giving. During these festive seasons, it’s crucial to keep in mind those who are in less fortunate circumstances and take action to help them.

There are numerous ways to make a positive impact on society. One way is to support the future generation of our nation by providing nutritious meals in schools, thereby empowering them for a better future.

Spread the light of kindness with Akshaya Patra

The Akshaya Patra Foundation is an NGO for children that implements the Government of India’s PM POSHAN Abhiyaan (previously known as the Mid-Day Meal Programme) in numerous schools across India. With an aim to eradicate classroom hunger, we have reached feeding over 2 million children on a daily basis. Children who belong to financially limited backgrounds often compromise on their education or even if they come to school they won’t be able to concentrate on classes due to hunger. Mid-Day Meal Programme ensures that they are having one nutritious meal every day.

This festival, gift children the power of nutrition. It helps them to develop their creativity and boosts their self-confidence. Thus, they can concentrate on their studies and perform well in academics, which in turn builds a mature generation who act responsibly on different social issues in the country.

Just like a diya transfers light to the next and so on, your kindness can brighten their lives and radiate goodness throughout the world, making it a better place.

Donate to charity and bring hope to children’s lives.