Last time when we had taken the children out after the play( last to last sunday ? ), the children had mentioned that kids who hardly had any interest in english have started enjoying the language. Even if they did not know the language, they have started taking pains to learn it and read up books they wouldnt have read before. Made us feel glad and proud of our achievements. I got fulfilled that the aim of me doing the play had got fulfilled.
Then one fine day I get a call from someone ( ? ! ) and the conversation goes as below.. uhum.. uhum. :)
I say - hello. The guy says- Hi , I am from Infosys. I heard about Arabian Nights - A few of my friends and I at Infosys wanted to do a team outing, and were wondering when you are having your next show :) I am shocked.And I say.. sorry, but we are not having any repeat performance for Arabian nights. To which he says, but that cant be true. I heard the play was very good and was looking forward to seeing it. Ok, so when is your next play. :) I am more shocked , feel like laughing too. Actually i am giggling by now. I tell him, " Look we did this play because the slum children with whom I work, wanted to learn english and what a better way than to do a english play :) " Now , its his turn to be shocked.And he says- are you serious? You mean the performers were slum children ! And you guys were doing the play for the first time ! And I am laughing at his shock. Tongue in Cheek I add- " I knew we were good.But I did not know we were so good " Hero has also recovered by now . And he said " Yaa.. yaa..actually I heard the play was very good.. "
On a serious note I asked him , that if his team was interested in watching the play and if Infosys could sponsor it, we wouldnt mind coming to Infosys and performing :) To which he said it would be a good idea and he would check with his HR. But he hasnt come back yet. Where are you "Mr. Gagan Singh"? The Children and Kruti are itching to give a outstanding performance again.
One of the major divisions within our company ( HP ) , have recognised Kruti as one of the outstanding 'Social contribution' projects and have awarded Kruti too.
Today When I went to the slum, I had one more pleasant surprise. 4 - 5 children after getting inspired by the Arabian nights have , requested their parents to shift them into English medium and are now going to go to English medium schools.
Actually when I see the list of accomplishments above, I am kind of satisfied. That at my age if I have accomplished what I have , then my life has been worth lived.
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