There is a small philanthropist in me. He comes out frequently and enjoys doing his bit for the needy. But on Friday (June 11, 2010), he got a great opportunity to meet and spend some time at a home for the abandoned old-aged on the outskirts of Hyderabad. It was a part of Deloitte's community service initiative.

To be frank, I was not really excited, but was looking forward to the day. As I live with my grandparents, I understand how desperate elderly people are for support and how much joy a small hello can bring to them.

We were at the place by about 10:30. The whole event started slowly with the caretaker giving us some background. It was followed by personal interactions with the inmates. Everyone had a bitter reason to be there. While some were left alone by their children, some others lost their families. As we probed them more, we discovered mathematicians, talented singers, post graduates, etc.

Fun started in the afternoon as we gathered some of the inmates and some poor villagers around under a shade. Team games, lunch, dancing, and singing followed making it a memorable event. What more! I hosted all the afternoon events, explaining the rules of the games, persuading, and encouraging the crowd to take part.

At about 4:30 pm, on behalf on my team, I bid adieu to the cheering crowd who forgot, at least for some time, that they were the unwanted. The immediate reaction from the crowd was "What's your name? When will you come back?"

Almost in tears, I assured them I will visit again with my wife after marriage. They blessed our team, wished us all the very best, prayed for our success. All this just because we gave them some attention.

A combination of joy and responsibility swept my heart as I walked towards our vehicle.

PS: This is the catalyst I have been waiting for.
Photo 1: Photo with my fans toward the end.
Photo 2: Me dancing to a folk song
                                                                                    Photo 3: Group photo at the end.

 For more pics:
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and

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=photographs.vinay&target=PHOTO&id=5483412290983685682&aid=5483410337336790929&authkey=Gv1sRgCM3niYGVw-2xNA&feat=email