Bharat Ke Rang Ekal Ke Sang – Friday, February 9th!
by Chahna Gupta
Growing up in South Florida, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the transformative impact of the annual Ekal Vidyalaya event, both as an attendee and a volunteer. Each year, our community unites to raise funds for establishing and sustaining one-teacher schools in rural and tribal regions of Bharat and Nepal. Over time, Ekal has evolved in remarkable ways, adapting to the changing landscape of education and community needs.
Recognizing the pivotal role of technology in education, Ekal has seamlessly integrated modern tools like tablets and computer labs into its curriculum. Beyond academics, the organization has broadened its scope to address holistic community needs. This includes offering telemedicine, eye care, preventive health services, and even aiding in COVID-19 relief efforts within remote villages. Furthermore, Ekal’s forward-thinking initiatives encompass skill development programs, sustainable agriculture, artisanal crafts, micro-entrepreneurship, and specialized career paths for women, such as teacher training, healthcare roles, and tailoring.
Remarkably, a contribution as modest as a dollar a day can affect profound change. From fostering education and healthcare to promoting women’s empowerment and holistic village development, Ekal has significantly enriched countless lives.
My journey with Ekal began humbly, assisting my parents with various event tasks—serving food, managing payments, decorating, coordinating volunteers, and handling administrative duties. Today, it fills me with immense pride to serve as the President of the South Florida Chapter of Ekal Vidyalaya, realizing a long-held aspiration.
This year, we’re introducing a novel approach to our event. We’re offering a complimentary program and dinner. We invite you, along with your family and friends, to join us on Friday, February 9th, for an inspiring evening. Witness performances by talented artists who are Ekal alumni and volunteers, showcasing their profound gratitude and dedication to an organization that transformed their lives by offering opportunities beyond the confines of their rural origins.
Mark your calendars for “Bharat Ke Rang Ekal Ke Sung” on Friday, February 9th, 2024, at Charles W. Flanagan High School. Dinner will be served from 7-8 pm, followed by the program from 8-10 pm.
Join us for an evening of celebration, reflecting the collective generosity and impact of our community. This event is our heartfelt tribute to you!
About the Author
Chahna Tailor Gupta, an Ayurvedic Practitioner and certified yoga teacher, has a background in occupational therapy and health science with a focus in public health. Chahna was yoga trained in Rishikesh, India and had ayurvedic clinicals in Kannur, Kerala. Chahna provides yoga, pranayama, meditation, 200-hr yoga teacher training, and ayurvedic health counseling services through her company Namaskar To You. Chahna is a volunteer for Ekal Vidyalaya, American Association of Ayurvedic Professionals (AAAP), and Ayurveda Association of Florida (AAF). She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Ayurvedic Medicine while continuing her self-studies in yoga.
