The 15th Year of Anantha Deepavali, a heartfelt initiative by AUM Education Seva Trust, was celebrated on October 27, 2024, at Dr. Ramakrishna Kalyana Mandapam, Tiruninravur (Pincode: 602024). This remarkable event brought festive cheer to 1,000 underprivileged children, including those from tribal villages, orphanages, and government schools, who are often deprived of such celebrations.
With the true spirit of Deepavali, these children were gifted new clothes, sweets, and other essential festive items, ensuring they could celebrate the festival with joy and dignity. The event was honored by the presence of Shri K. Ramesh, Founder of Mugavari Foundation, and Dr. C. D. Thiagu, a passionate social activist, as Chief Guests.
What began as a small initiative in 2010, benefiting just 197 children, has now grown into a large-scale movement touching the lives of thousands. Over the years, the number of children receiving the blessings of this noble initiative has steadily increased:
2010: 197 children
2011: 300 children
2012: 365 children
2013: 500 children
2014: 480 children
2015: 550 children
2016: 600 children
2017: 650 children
2018: 1,000 children (across two locations)
2019: 700 children
2020 (Covid-19 Pandemic Year): 300 children
2021: 700 children
2022: 950 children
2023: 950 children
2024: 1,000 children
The steady rise in the number of beneficiaries is a testament to the unwavering commitment of AUM Education Seva Trust, its volunteers, and the kind-hearted donors who have dedicated themselves to making Deepavali special for these children.
Anantha Deepavali is not just an event; it is a movement of love, care, and inclusivity. While many children look forward to Deepavali as a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness, thousands of underprivileged children remain deprived of these festivities. This initiative ensures that they, too, can experience the warmth of the festival—dressed in new clothes, relishing delicious sweets, and enjoying the traditional essence of Deepavali.
Despite challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic, AUM Education Seva Trust has remained steadfast in its mission to spread happiness. Even in 2020, at the peak of the pandemic, when celebrations were scaled down, the trust ensured that 300 children still received the festival’s joy.
Now, in 2024, as Anantha Deepavali completes its 15th glorious year, it continues to shine as a beacon of hope and generosity, proving that a small act of kindness can ignite a lifetime of joy in a child’s heart.