RBGCD 2011
“RBGCD - A day inspiring us to Act, Give, Learn and Grow”
RBGCD May 10th, 2011 brought together various corporate people, home makers, moms, retired professionals and children under one roof, early in the morning. RBGCD will soon be giving them a heart-touching experience of opening their hearts and minds to connect to our world for learning, giving and receiving.
RBGCD Volunteers came together as a family and extended a helping hand to reach out to 150 children from the 18 villages of Sriramanahalli at the PT Campus grounds, Bangalore. The children were ranging from age 10 – 15 and were excited, happy and eager.
The engaging activities were lead by industry professionals who were passionate in the volunteering process to be of help to society. The activity plan contained:
We humbly thank our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik who is so full of Compassion. RBGCD is one such platform that is provided by our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik that makes all the Social Service talks, actually become an action.
RBGCD is a revolution and a Movement in human consciousness of reaching out and extending the Self to a larger consciousness. This is only possible from someone so noble in deed and action such as Sri Raj Bhowmik who is realized and has seen the Vision of Global Peace as an outcome, lived it and is dedicated about making this a part of everybody else’s life even beyond boundaries of color, creed, social designations, lands and cultures.
RBGCD May 10th, 2011 brought together various corporate people, home makers, moms, retired professionals and children under one roof, early in the morning. RBGCD will soon be giving them a heart-touching experience of opening their hearts and minds to connect to our world for learning, giving and receiving.
RBGCD Volunteers came together as a family and extended a helping hand to reach out to 150 children from the 18 villages of Sriramanahalli at the PT Campus grounds, Bangalore. The children were ranging from age 10 – 15 and were excited, happy and eager.
The engaging activities were lead by industry professionals who were passionate in the volunteering process to be of help to society. The activity plan contained:
- Connecting with environment
- How Photographs can tell a story
- Art from everyday objects
- Newspapers and creative writing
- CORPORitual Values of living life
We humbly thank our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik who is so full of Compassion. RBGCD is one such platform that is provided by our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik that makes all the Social Service talks, actually become an action.
RBGCD is a revolution and a Movement in human consciousness of reaching out and extending the Self to a larger consciousness. This is only possible from someone so noble in deed and action such as Sri Raj Bhowmik who is realized and has seen the Vision of Global Peace as an outcome, lived it and is dedicated about making this a part of everybody else’s life even beyond boundaries of color, creed, social designations, lands and cultures.
RBGCD VOLUNTEERS SPEAK THEIR EXPERIENCE
Anuradha Simha (Advocate, Bangalore)
I can’t tell you in words how moving the experience is. The whole experience has humbled me. I have done a lot of work in similar areas but have never felt this way. I would like to thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for the platform that he has created. He has even made people like me realize that we are not useless in society, there is a lot to do. Here, there was no caste, no high or low. It was a very unique experience. Thank You Sri Raj for creating Soulbath Peace Foundation and RBGCD.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Richard Driscoll (Director Microsoft, EPS, India)
I like children and just being around. I enjoyed the activity that I was part of. I also come from a village background and saw myself being one among them. The RBGCD Day was organized well and everything was under control. I enjoyed being part of this experience. Working with children was good and useful for them. The RBGCD is a worthwhile endeavor. Soulbath Peace Foundation needs to be applauded for what it is doing.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lakshmi Arvind (Project Coordinator at Project Management Centre of Excellence IBM)
This May 10th was indeed one of the most beautiful days of my life. A perfect day where I got to learn so much and share. Would like to thank the founder for his enormous effort in getting so many people together for such a wonderful cause. Many of us in our busy lives only "think" about doing something like this. However, to put it into action and ensure it happens year after year it requires a lot of conviction and determination. And to think that it was not just few 100s but thousands of people across the world is really commendable. The peace and joy that I felt being there and contributing in every little way I could still lingers on in my mind. Its a kind of joy that I am just not able to describe in words to any one outside because one has to be there to experience it. I look forward to participate in more such programs and give back to the community. Just like the way I got to learn how one should never stop dreaming. Well, that's what the children taught me. My prayers are there with you. Thanks to the Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik, once again in giving us all such a wonderful opportunity.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deepaa B (Corporate Communications, Microsoft, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
What moved me was coming to see children, their learning and their enthusiasm. I am so glad to be part of this big compassion ocean. I wanted to do this for a very long time. And now I did it. It is not possible to reach out individually. The whole RBGCD experience helped me understand what it means to give back in its truest essence through my experience yesterday. I realized that I wanted to do it in my heart badly. There were obstacles but things just moved out one by one. The opportunity came. I realized that desire from the heart can open out opportunities and it makes things happen. I would like to thank the RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gousha (Wife of IBM Employee Sayed Saleem Basha)
I can’t even dream that I could learn so much from the children in one day. While we were leaving children asked us when are we coming back again. Even thought I haven’t met Sri Raj Bhowmik, he has taught us so much. He has a large heart to even think of something like this.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jahnavi Mohan (Teacher at Mallya Aditi International School)
It was moving to see how everybody came with an open mind and not with the agenda of making friends. There were no inhibitions and I felt extremely comfortable. My thoughts were gelling with the vision of the RBGCD Day so I joined. I am not able to do this on my own. I felt welcome with open arms here. Lots of people whom I didn’t know at all as part of RBGCD Day Volunteers appreciated what I did. My comfort level was to the sky. I would like to thank for the RBGCD platform. Some of us are passionate about work like this but we don’t know how to do and where to go. If somebody establishes a platform such as RBGCD, then it helps.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aishwarya Suresh Srinivasan (Marathon Runner, Entrepreneur and Home maker)
What stood out for me was the exposure given to children in the village compared to the city. Their responses were very clear. It was a wonderful experience. I felt very peaceful through the day and even after coming back wanted to keep it. I am glad that I could be a small part and that goes a long way. I could be one of the drops in the ocean of compassion. I would like to continue being associated with the RBGCD platform. Sri Raj Bhowmik has lovingly opened the door for us. By recognizing it, entering through it and working through the opportunities created we can make our contribution to the RBGCD day of compassion.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pavan Kulkarni (SAP Functional Consultant, IBM)
I was touched by the spirit of the children, their enthusiasm to learn new and getting involved. It feels wonderful being with the community and reaching out this way. The RBGCD platform is a great initiative. We are always with ourselves. We usually don’t take time to give back apart from ourself and our immediate family. It was a great day today ! Had a wonderful time and learning with the children. I thank ‘Sri Raj Bhowmik’ for this initiative. We need more people so that the initiative grows. Every moment spent that day was special.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bhanu (Home maker)
What moved me was the fact that inspite of their circumstances, the children had very clear dreams. They have an identity. Being part of the ocean here on May 10th was an eye opening experience where we feel we are one. We have so many privileges in our life and yet we complain. It helped us reach people who need compassion desperately in their lives giving them hope, giving them compassion and confidence. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for this platform that made me aware that it is so different to begin with. To begin on this journey one needs the conviction and compassion to do something of this scale.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anitha Aswathi (Project Manager MTN @ IBM)
The warmth of the people and the level of trust, acceptance and openness moved me. This experience has been satisfying. I have got to know a new level of happiness that never existed before. Earlier previous opportunities in my life came but I never took it. My short association with Soulbath Peace Foundation gave me the assurance that this could be different. Whatever I had hoped, it gave me the same. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving the world the RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mohana Iyer (SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
The sharing of joy and feeling free was my take away. Children were willing to receiving and giving. The RBGCD sharing is from a different space – It is out of concern not top down. I didn’t plant the seed and didn’t see the sapling but I took care of the little plant on that day made me learn and share that was 2 way. Children have new ideas. One cant do everything by the self. To be a part of something is vital. It was a feeling of total oneness…not even connected but One. I realized that distance does not matter but we are all connected as one. Everything was done for us. We all want to reach out and spend time but I haven’t done it for a long time. Thanks for this platform available. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for making yesterday to happen to me.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Swaathi Birje (Counsellor Special Children, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
We got connected to children in such a short time. I am at peace with myself. Nothing bothered or disturbed me. I am tired after a long day but not irritable. I feel very safe and protected. I would like to say Thank You for choosing me Raj. What I really wanted to do is this and the opportunity has come. This is the most luxurious way opportunity. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for choosing me to be part of it to know what service is all about.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rahul Venkatram (Manager, TED @ Wipro Technologies, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Every time I am attending a RBGCD initiative I learn and heal some part of me. This time I felt closer to children and enjoyed the environment. Felt transparent and free. children are true image of the soul and being with them is a reflection of our soul. I learned to “to be” with them. I feel by being with them and give back to society has helped me in balancing myself and respecting and most significantly having gratitude and compassion towards the environment. There were no inhibitions about being with children. I was one among them and very much at ease. The global perspective is the synergy happening and everybody sharing ourselves without inhibitions. I would like to thank the RBGCD platform and Sri Raj as it creates a focused energy. Grateful the way we did it.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mamta Hemrajani (Home Maker, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Any event like this with SPF is always different. The children’s enthusiasm was infectious. Till the time they took to understand they were hesitant and after sometime language didn’t matter and they understood everything. We should do more of it. So many people and the same vision is overwhelming and I am happy to be a part of it. I would like to say thank You to Sri Raj Bhowmik and am grateful to be a part of it. Soulbath Peace Foundation has totally changed my life. It is an honour. SPF has opened a new window and shown a path in my life and it has surely changed since then.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Meenakshi Viswanath (Orthodontist , SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
It was moving to see so many people who took time out to do this together. The kids participating, their love and love touched me. I feel connected to this ocean of Compassion. I feel I am part of this family and very happy and glad to be a part of it. Lot of people are doing such good work and lots to learn from everybody. I want to be a part of this every year from where ever I am.
I would like to say Thank you to the RBGCD platform and Sri Raj Bhowmik. Its awesome. Very glad to be here. I wriggled my way into it with all my heart. The more that I know about Him, I feel Incredible. He is Unique. He is a Master because He is so full of it. People have busy schedules but yet have time to appreciate each other. The world still has lot of nice people who contribute in a nice and genuine way. Each and everybody was doing their parts with a hundred percent effort.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Viswanath (Retd Prof. History, Pondicherry University)
Children and their enthusiasm was spontaneous They were shy to communicate initially. The people volunteers I met in the RBGCD Team were so connected to children. The largeness of the RBGCD was an eye opener. I am grateful for the platform. The noble vision of Sri Raj Bhowmik to reach out to the needy of society is something I could relate to that has the fragrance of a Universal bond.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Svasti (Image Consultant, Hair Consultant, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
All the children were very aware. They all wanted to do something. At their age we didn’t even know that. The largeness of the RBGCD and of all volunteers working towards that energy is moving. Earlier people didn’t care for each other. Now I feel a part that is doing something. The RBGCD platform is doing brilliant work. We could do so much. Lots of places eventually will be reach out and I hope SPF will make me a part.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deepika Talwar (Potter, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Our interactions with the kids blew my mind. When we asked how many people read newspapers, only one responded but every body had an opinion and was well aware of latest news. We all spent time together. I have immense Gratitude for the RBGCD platform and I am looking forward to this day.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vijaya Vallabhu (Clinical Researcher, SAHHEAL healing Consultant)
It was a wonderful experience today and each time it is something unique. Even today's event was different in its own way. Especially the village atmosphere, the freshness that smells in the air, the innocence in the children's faces, the commitment of the trust members and the volunteers is worth mentioning .I was with the photography team, the way the children understand and their openness to learn was really surprising. When an individual connects to anything with a desire to learn and commitment even the hardest lessons can be learnt in a very simple manner. This was my learning for the day.
I would like to mention a special thank you note and best wishes to our founder Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving such a wonderful opportunity and the best of the trip is the care taken for each volunteer's comfort and happiness and such arrangements so that everyone felt included.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vudaiy Vallabhu (Project manager IBM, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Today I saw a lot of Trees with Mangos some on the ground and some on the tree. These trees keep giving fruits and flowers to us and keep growing silently and naturally .Children Keep smiling at us and give us a chance to smile. They remind us that the purity of the mind and to be joyful is something that we have within ourselves naturally. Though the nature and the children have always something to give and grow they do it very silently and naturally. Today's experience was a good mix of nature and children and their essence on Mother Earth and what our role is. My best wishes and special thanks our founder Sri Raj Bhowmik to have given us this RBGCD Platform, this opportunity to have this experience of what it means to give back to the society
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ruby Bana (CIO Havas Media, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
I was conducting a workshop on advertising - What makes it work? I had a thousands personal thing going on in my own life during that time but the experience with the 15 children, many of them awaiting 10th class results, moving into college and on verge of adulthood was very touching. The Volunteers created an island with complete focus on children. I realized even though I know my subject well and have done this many times but this time there was a larger wisdom flowing through me, adapting it to their life needs and slowly it was not me conducting the workshop but just being a medium for something bigger. In the process I learnt a perspective to my work that I had not realized before. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving us this RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kirti Dwivedi Bishayee (RBCC Head, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
May 10th was a unique and beautiful day in my life. It was an experience which I am still not ready to call as a past experience. It is like a live experience which I am still living even after the day got over. On arriving inside the village we found that the entire ground was transformed in to a living RBGCD dream. We were surrounded by children and adults with curious and warm faces and brightly coloured clothes. It was definitely not a normal day for them and all the eyes had million questions to ask. Our Volunteer team was given the charge to conduct a dance movement activity, something which we all in my team were very enthusiastic about. We all danced together and were one all through. We were all equal with no labels of student / teacher, adult / children, urban / rural or rich. One little girl caught my attention when I found her sad and a teacher of hers consoling her, in our group. On inquiring about the reason of her moist eyes she told me that her mom expired on 25th march this year and she was missing her very much. I had no words to console her, but just told her instinctively, that, "consider me your mom", I felt I was re-born that day. She smiled through her tears and that made my day. We all ate together like one big family. We expressed our heart felt gratitude and prayer to our Founder "SRI RAJ BHOWMIK" to allow us a soulful and beautiful experience of the day. It was indeed a "Still" moment when we all kept a minute of silence together. The day ended as beautifully as it had begun. Wish to live many more such RBGCD days ... AMEN! Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for this wonderful platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shashi Wadhera (Copywriter, Journalist, Play Wright & SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Thank you for providing all the means to serve the needy, on our platter. The day, the moment, the gift of the power to Dream, the occasion was completely a soul binding experience. Thank you for the opportunity of allowing the children feel the power to dream and also execute. Thank you for making us the tool. Thank you Sri Raj for your abundant compassion, grace and presence.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Raman Gulati (Founder, Sonarome Foundation)
I was moved when the children in my group were thrilled to see what they had done. I was in charge of a few kids and they constantly kept saying “Are you coming back tomorrow? Can we come tomorrow?” After the event every child came and spoke to me and this was really touching. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for providing this warm platform.
I can’t tell you in words how moving the experience is. The whole experience has humbled me. I have done a lot of work in similar areas but have never felt this way. I would like to thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for the platform that he has created. He has even made people like me realize that we are not useless in society, there is a lot to do. Here, there was no caste, no high or low. It was a very unique experience. Thank You Sri Raj for creating Soulbath Peace Foundation and RBGCD.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Richard Driscoll (Director Microsoft, EPS, India)
I like children and just being around. I enjoyed the activity that I was part of. I also come from a village background and saw myself being one among them. The RBGCD Day was organized well and everything was under control. I enjoyed being part of this experience. Working with children was good and useful for them. The RBGCD is a worthwhile endeavor. Soulbath Peace Foundation needs to be applauded for what it is doing.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lakshmi Arvind (Project Coordinator at Project Management Centre of Excellence IBM)
This May 10th was indeed one of the most beautiful days of my life. A perfect day where I got to learn so much and share. Would like to thank the founder for his enormous effort in getting so many people together for such a wonderful cause. Many of us in our busy lives only "think" about doing something like this. However, to put it into action and ensure it happens year after year it requires a lot of conviction and determination. And to think that it was not just few 100s but thousands of people across the world is really commendable. The peace and joy that I felt being there and contributing in every little way I could still lingers on in my mind. Its a kind of joy that I am just not able to describe in words to any one outside because one has to be there to experience it. I look forward to participate in more such programs and give back to the community. Just like the way I got to learn how one should never stop dreaming. Well, that's what the children taught me. My prayers are there with you. Thanks to the Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik, once again in giving us all such a wonderful opportunity.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deepaa B (Corporate Communications, Microsoft, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
What moved me was coming to see children, their learning and their enthusiasm. I am so glad to be part of this big compassion ocean. I wanted to do this for a very long time. And now I did it. It is not possible to reach out individually. The whole RBGCD experience helped me understand what it means to give back in its truest essence through my experience yesterday. I realized that I wanted to do it in my heart badly. There were obstacles but things just moved out one by one. The opportunity came. I realized that desire from the heart can open out opportunities and it makes things happen. I would like to thank the RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gousha (Wife of IBM Employee Sayed Saleem Basha)
I can’t even dream that I could learn so much from the children in one day. While we were leaving children asked us when are we coming back again. Even thought I haven’t met Sri Raj Bhowmik, he has taught us so much. He has a large heart to even think of something like this.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jahnavi Mohan (Teacher at Mallya Aditi International School)
It was moving to see how everybody came with an open mind and not with the agenda of making friends. There were no inhibitions and I felt extremely comfortable. My thoughts were gelling with the vision of the RBGCD Day so I joined. I am not able to do this on my own. I felt welcome with open arms here. Lots of people whom I didn’t know at all as part of RBGCD Day Volunteers appreciated what I did. My comfort level was to the sky. I would like to thank for the RBGCD platform. Some of us are passionate about work like this but we don’t know how to do and where to go. If somebody establishes a platform such as RBGCD, then it helps.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aishwarya Suresh Srinivasan (Marathon Runner, Entrepreneur and Home maker)
What stood out for me was the exposure given to children in the village compared to the city. Their responses were very clear. It was a wonderful experience. I felt very peaceful through the day and even after coming back wanted to keep it. I am glad that I could be a small part and that goes a long way. I could be one of the drops in the ocean of compassion. I would like to continue being associated with the RBGCD platform. Sri Raj Bhowmik has lovingly opened the door for us. By recognizing it, entering through it and working through the opportunities created we can make our contribution to the RBGCD day of compassion.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pavan Kulkarni (SAP Functional Consultant, IBM)
I was touched by the spirit of the children, their enthusiasm to learn new and getting involved. It feels wonderful being with the community and reaching out this way. The RBGCD platform is a great initiative. We are always with ourselves. We usually don’t take time to give back apart from ourself and our immediate family. It was a great day today ! Had a wonderful time and learning with the children. I thank ‘Sri Raj Bhowmik’ for this initiative. We need more people so that the initiative grows. Every moment spent that day was special.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bhanu (Home maker)
What moved me was the fact that inspite of their circumstances, the children had very clear dreams. They have an identity. Being part of the ocean here on May 10th was an eye opening experience where we feel we are one. We have so many privileges in our life and yet we complain. It helped us reach people who need compassion desperately in their lives giving them hope, giving them compassion and confidence. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for this platform that made me aware that it is so different to begin with. To begin on this journey one needs the conviction and compassion to do something of this scale.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anitha Aswathi (Project Manager MTN @ IBM)
The warmth of the people and the level of trust, acceptance and openness moved me. This experience has been satisfying. I have got to know a new level of happiness that never existed before. Earlier previous opportunities in my life came but I never took it. My short association with Soulbath Peace Foundation gave me the assurance that this could be different. Whatever I had hoped, it gave me the same. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving the world the RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mohana Iyer (SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
The sharing of joy and feeling free was my take away. Children were willing to receiving and giving. The RBGCD sharing is from a different space – It is out of concern not top down. I didn’t plant the seed and didn’t see the sapling but I took care of the little plant on that day made me learn and share that was 2 way. Children have new ideas. One cant do everything by the self. To be a part of something is vital. It was a feeling of total oneness…not even connected but One. I realized that distance does not matter but we are all connected as one. Everything was done for us. We all want to reach out and spend time but I haven’t done it for a long time. Thanks for this platform available. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for making yesterday to happen to me.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Swaathi Birje (Counsellor Special Children, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
We got connected to children in such a short time. I am at peace with myself. Nothing bothered or disturbed me. I am tired after a long day but not irritable. I feel very safe and protected. I would like to say Thank You for choosing me Raj. What I really wanted to do is this and the opportunity has come. This is the most luxurious way opportunity. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for choosing me to be part of it to know what service is all about.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rahul Venkatram (Manager, TED @ Wipro Technologies, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Every time I am attending a RBGCD initiative I learn and heal some part of me. This time I felt closer to children and enjoyed the environment. Felt transparent and free. children are true image of the soul and being with them is a reflection of our soul. I learned to “to be” with them. I feel by being with them and give back to society has helped me in balancing myself and respecting and most significantly having gratitude and compassion towards the environment. There were no inhibitions about being with children. I was one among them and very much at ease. The global perspective is the synergy happening and everybody sharing ourselves without inhibitions. I would like to thank the RBGCD platform and Sri Raj as it creates a focused energy. Grateful the way we did it.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mamta Hemrajani (Home Maker, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Any event like this with SPF is always different. The children’s enthusiasm was infectious. Till the time they took to understand they were hesitant and after sometime language didn’t matter and they understood everything. We should do more of it. So many people and the same vision is overwhelming and I am happy to be a part of it. I would like to say thank You to Sri Raj Bhowmik and am grateful to be a part of it. Soulbath Peace Foundation has totally changed my life. It is an honour. SPF has opened a new window and shown a path in my life and it has surely changed since then.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Meenakshi Viswanath (Orthodontist , SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
It was moving to see so many people who took time out to do this together. The kids participating, their love and love touched me. I feel connected to this ocean of Compassion. I feel I am part of this family and very happy and glad to be a part of it. Lot of people are doing such good work and lots to learn from everybody. I want to be a part of this every year from where ever I am.
I would like to say Thank you to the RBGCD platform and Sri Raj Bhowmik. Its awesome. Very glad to be here. I wriggled my way into it with all my heart. The more that I know about Him, I feel Incredible. He is Unique. He is a Master because He is so full of it. People have busy schedules but yet have time to appreciate each other. The world still has lot of nice people who contribute in a nice and genuine way. Each and everybody was doing their parts with a hundred percent effort.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Viswanath (Retd Prof. History, Pondicherry University)
Children and their enthusiasm was spontaneous They were shy to communicate initially. The people volunteers I met in the RBGCD Team were so connected to children. The largeness of the RBGCD was an eye opener. I am grateful for the platform. The noble vision of Sri Raj Bhowmik to reach out to the needy of society is something I could relate to that has the fragrance of a Universal bond.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Svasti (Image Consultant, Hair Consultant, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
All the children were very aware. They all wanted to do something. At their age we didn’t even know that. The largeness of the RBGCD and of all volunteers working towards that energy is moving. Earlier people didn’t care for each other. Now I feel a part that is doing something. The RBGCD platform is doing brilliant work. We could do so much. Lots of places eventually will be reach out and I hope SPF will make me a part.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deepika Talwar (Potter, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Our interactions with the kids blew my mind. When we asked how many people read newspapers, only one responded but every body had an opinion and was well aware of latest news. We all spent time together. I have immense Gratitude for the RBGCD platform and I am looking forward to this day.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vijaya Vallabhu (Clinical Researcher, SAHHEAL healing Consultant)
It was a wonderful experience today and each time it is something unique. Even today's event was different in its own way. Especially the village atmosphere, the freshness that smells in the air, the innocence in the children's faces, the commitment of the trust members and the volunteers is worth mentioning .I was with the photography team, the way the children understand and their openness to learn was really surprising. When an individual connects to anything with a desire to learn and commitment even the hardest lessons can be learnt in a very simple manner. This was my learning for the day.
I would like to mention a special thank you note and best wishes to our founder Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving such a wonderful opportunity and the best of the trip is the care taken for each volunteer's comfort and happiness and such arrangements so that everyone felt included.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vudaiy Vallabhu (Project manager IBM, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Today I saw a lot of Trees with Mangos some on the ground and some on the tree. These trees keep giving fruits and flowers to us and keep growing silently and naturally .Children Keep smiling at us and give us a chance to smile. They remind us that the purity of the mind and to be joyful is something that we have within ourselves naturally. Though the nature and the children have always something to give and grow they do it very silently and naturally. Today's experience was a good mix of nature and children and their essence on Mother Earth and what our role is. My best wishes and special thanks our founder Sri Raj Bhowmik to have given us this RBGCD Platform, this opportunity to have this experience of what it means to give back to the society
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ruby Bana (CIO Havas Media, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
I was conducting a workshop on advertising - What makes it work? I had a thousands personal thing going on in my own life during that time but the experience with the 15 children, many of them awaiting 10th class results, moving into college and on verge of adulthood was very touching. The Volunteers created an island with complete focus on children. I realized even though I know my subject well and have done this many times but this time there was a larger wisdom flowing through me, adapting it to their life needs and slowly it was not me conducting the workshop but just being a medium for something bigger. In the process I learnt a perspective to my work that I had not realized before. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving us this RBGCD platform.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kirti Dwivedi Bishayee (RBCC Head, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
May 10th was a unique and beautiful day in my life. It was an experience which I am still not ready to call as a past experience. It is like a live experience which I am still living even after the day got over. On arriving inside the village we found that the entire ground was transformed in to a living RBGCD dream. We were surrounded by children and adults with curious and warm faces and brightly coloured clothes. It was definitely not a normal day for them and all the eyes had million questions to ask. Our Volunteer team was given the charge to conduct a dance movement activity, something which we all in my team were very enthusiastic about. We all danced together and were one all through. We were all equal with no labels of student / teacher, adult / children, urban / rural or rich. One little girl caught my attention when I found her sad and a teacher of hers consoling her, in our group. On inquiring about the reason of her moist eyes she told me that her mom expired on 25th march this year and she was missing her very much. I had no words to console her, but just told her instinctively, that, "consider me your mom", I felt I was re-born that day. She smiled through her tears and that made my day. We all ate together like one big family. We expressed our heart felt gratitude and prayer to our Founder "SRI RAJ BHOWMIK" to allow us a soulful and beautiful experience of the day. It was indeed a "Still" moment when we all kept a minute of silence together. The day ended as beautifully as it had begun. Wish to live many more such RBGCD days ... AMEN! Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik for this wonderful platform.
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Shashi Wadhera (Copywriter, Journalist, Play Wright & SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
Thank you for providing all the means to serve the needy, on our platter. The day, the moment, the gift of the power to Dream, the occasion was completely a soul binding experience. Thank you for the opportunity of allowing the children feel the power to dream and also execute. Thank you for making us the tool. Thank you Sri Raj for your abundant compassion, grace and presence.
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Raman Gulati (Founder, Sonarome Foundation)
I was moved when the children in my group were thrilled to see what they had done. I was in charge of a few kids and they constantly kept saying “Are you coming back tomorrow? Can we come tomorrow?” After the event every child came and spoke to me and this was really touching. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for providing this warm platform.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS OFFER FOOD AT AMBEDKAR SLUM.
TEAM- Mother and Son duo (Mohua and Neel) as part of the RB-BTS Day.
Mohua Chinappa (Wife Of M.B.Chinappa , CFO Syngene)
It was moving to see the happiness of small little children. They were well behaved to find original smiles that are beyond the plasticity or urban life. This opportunity made me realize how brave I am to go into a community where I don’t know the language. I realized that there is no language needed to express emotions. It was a totally soul satisfying day. Even Neel was happy. He said that something so small like buns are making them happy. I am happy to be part of a larger cause that feels for people. Usually we take many things for granted and it remains untouched in our lives. We spend millions on some vacations and other things. This is a small and worthwhile contribution.
I am thankful to the platform of RBGCD and Sri Raj Bhowmik, as I experienced unadulterated joy with the children. Through this I am rediscovering myself.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS AT INFANT JESUS HOME
TEAM - Mother and Daughter (Sanjana and Dashya -Age 6)
RBGCD Team reached Infant Jesus Home only to realize that the family there wanted somebody to listen to them. They sang and ate Ice creams together. Just listening to them about their daily life feels so good just like how everybody wants to be heard and appreciated in a relationship. There were 60 boys at the home from age 6 – 14. 6 year old Dashya will always remember this special May 10th in her life – that taught her that when we extend our palms, somebody is always there to hold
In our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik’s words who always encourages people to live by their heart – “I have learned that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of people who live by the heart. I have learned that love and compassion, not time, heals all wounds.”
Sanjana
Infant Jesus Home always existed in the neighborhood and we must have crossed it a billion times. However when we make an effort to create a difference, we begin to take notice of the smallest places that we missed because we begin to Pause and Focus. This is where CORPORitual begins and takes us forward in a Growing Existence. For the first time in my life when I visited a home I felt genuinely happy as I saw happy smiles. So often we see orphans pleasing or frightened or well trained to talk to a visitor. The children here were not pressurized and were grateful for a small ice cream. I felt somewhere they were lonely and thought I should just listen to them. My daughter was touched deeply. She initially was very sad knowing about their parents but slowly became happy in their presence. I feel grateful and the capacity to make a small difference in someone’s life ..small but meaningful. The finding of the place took a whole half day and it was not easy initially.
The RBGCD Platform is like an awakening. I am thankful to the RBGCD Day that I was able to do something in my vicinity. This was like a push to do something and be a part of something worthwhile. I am thankful to Sri Raj Bhowmik.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN RAKUM BLIND SCHOOL
This visit to Sri Rakum School for blind children, on RBGCD was memorable. All volunteer's life were transforming for the very first time and we all felt the most relieving and inspiring moments of our lives. The RBGCD volunteers reached out to 250 visually challenged children and understood their living conditions, their world of darkness and about their fully aware and alert self. A peep into the lives of these children will open a whole world inside us that we still need to see and transform.
Aparna Suri (Proprieter of Salon Mousse and SPIGA), Bangalore
Once I understood the world at Rakum I decided that I could cook for them on a regular basis. I realized what else can we do. We offered them things on the list and they were overwhelmed at Rakum. They taught us how to read Braille. Whenever I would see a blind person crossing the road, I would always have tears in my eyes. We always spend money on other things and take for granted. I would like to reduce a part of my entertainment funds and do something constructive here every month. It was so wonderful to see that in spite of who they are the children were so comfortable in their surrounding and well equipped. I had always passed by the school but never entered here before this. I feel so amazing being part of this big compassion wave today as it has been across the world. If we all try even a bit we can make a small difference and even that matters to someone so much. I feel very useful today. This experience has been like an appetizer in my life. I am grateful to the RBGCD platform as this was an eye opener. I would like to tell Sri Raj today that a little bit of time that I made created a difference that is ten folds and also that life must not be taken for granted.
Savina Sud (Category manager, Fashion and You), Bangalore
It was an inspiring visit and I realized that we have everything and we are still cribbing. I am overwhelmed about being part of this compassion ocean and I am lucky to be part of it. There is a peace in my heart that I am feeling now. For the first time in my life, my head was right there when I am with them and no where else. I am thankful to Sri Raj and he is doing phenomenal work. This RBGCD platform has helped me experience empathy that I have never ever experienced before.
Naveen Kewalramani (Business Owner Sachin Farms) , Bangalore
The whole experience has given me a nice feeling. When I saw the children I initially felt very sad and I realized what more could I do for them. I have from today promised them 12 kg of food every wed from my farm which I can surely do. We would like to convey to Sri Raj Bhowmik who has given us the RBGCD platform that we are there with him.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS ON THE STREETS
In the hot summer months when the sun is scorching right above, few glasses of cold water and juice offered with Love is the biggest relief. Our RBGCD Volunteer Team comprising of Dr. Arundhati (Gynecologist) and her children reached out to the following domains of 80 poor people in all in the close vicinity of her home:
About 50 adults and 30 children were included in the RBGCD family through this interaction. The people had smiles on their faces in the hot tiring, sunny day.
Dr Arundhati (Gynecologist), Bangalore
We decided to extend and reach out to people who were moving. I realized the more we give, the more is given and we are all channels. As part of the RBGCD Compassion ocean, I want it to grow. We need to respect uniqueness where there is no demarcation. It is a flow of energy that is immeasurable and everybody should experience it in their lifetime. People who have bottled up their feelings especially need to experience it. This is a platform that I was searching and it is God Sent. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving me this opportunity to be a channel of compassion.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
THE PASSION SPREADS - CAFE COFFEE DAY JOINS THE DREAM
Sharanya is a small orphanage. It was started by Sir C.V. Raman’s wife. Mr. Jayanth (President Café Coffee Day), inspired by the RB-BTS Day sent a momentum rolling in his office about doing something collaboratively with his team. Announcements went through mailers and posters at Café Coffee Day outlets so that many more would be inspired by May 10th. In no time about 50 employees at Café Coffee Day rose to the RB-BTS Day Call by their leader. When leaders are driven by inspirations, the team follows. The employees got enough provisions for a whole month and together they took it to Sharanya and spent time with the children.
As Sri Raj Bhowmik says in his book CORPORitual:
“We need to remember that in the human form we do not have the privilege to play with time, as long as we want. Before the Chief Referee blows his whistle, we have to make our lives meaningful. If we do not make a difference to the world in any way, before we have to leave, then, what meaning do we have for the time spent here? We just came, and we will just be gone. Stop for a while and ask yourself, Is that how you want to ‘live’ and ‘leave’?”
– Sri Raj Bhowmik
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN SINGAPORE
The RBGCD Team traveled to METTA, an organization in Singapore that takes care of the disabled and terminally ill elderly. The team comprised of a mother and daughter duo who carried fresh apples to serve 60 elderly women to mark the celebration of RBGCD. Anuradha Kashi and her daughter Apoorva believe that this was a fulfilling experience for them to be part of RBGCD in Singapore.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN JAMGHAT DELHI
On the occasion of the RB-BTS Day, a team comprising of 2 families visited a home where street children are housed – Jamghat. The day was a unique celebration where Lion King was shown. The children began connecting their everyday life to the likes depicted in the film including their fights. Everybody came up with their own story of how the movie was relevant to their life. Their responses were about home, staying together, happiness. The RBGCD Volunteers carried biscuits, fruits & juices for them as refreshments. One of the volunteers from Meerut manufacture bats, balls and the cricket set and left behind the treasure for the children to enjoy and remember the RBGCD day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
MOVEMENT RIPPLES IN GUWAHATI
RB-BTS Day Volunteer Indu Lakhotia (MOM, Home maker)
15 RBGCD Volunteers went to Matri Mandir. It was so moving to see children who are so small as young as 3 months. The children loved the toys we carried and it was good to see them learn to play with the toys. They were so engrossed that they didn’t worry about the food. My younger daughter about age 9 said that we need to come here regularly. I am thankful to the RBGCD platform that showed me a new side of life with a very compassionate angle.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VANITA ANATH ASHRAM DEHRADUN
Ritu Kothari (PhD student, Dehradun)
We went to Vanitha Anath Ashram with some of my friends as part of RBGCD. My sister in Jodhpur had told me about RBGCD. We found that orphan children from grade 1 to 12 lived there and were given free tuitions. What was moving was to hear a girl sing so beautifully. My friends were so moved that one also began to cry and we all decided that once a year we would celebrate an ocassion at this place. I am feeling that I have done something useful today and I am feeling worthy. Having done Child psychology in my college, I used to think about doing something for children. I heard about RBGCD and I did it. Thank You for giving me this opportunity. This is my life’s happiest day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN TRIBAL ORPHANAGE
RBGCD volunteers reached a tribal children’s orphanage home. It is a unique charity project catering to the deepest villages where event the Govt. projects and benefits have not reached. Till today there are witch doctors and the tribals are completely dependent on fruits from the trees. The family who volunteered for the RBGCD were inspired to be a part of our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik’s vision of compassion. The whole family visited the orphanage to learn more about the children, the work and the need of the project in the area. The RBGCD volunteers learnt through this day how even medical facilities did not reach the homes in the deepest jungles and the nearest localities were about 7 km away. The volunteers were touched when they learnt about how the project started and how the members of the orphanage were initially not welcome in the tribal villages to now taking care of them. About 65 children are members of the orphanage.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
CHORAMPUDI VILLAGE ANDRA PRADESH
Chorampudi is a small village with a population of about 2000 people. It is located in Krishna dist and the nearest town Machilipatnam is about 30 km away. RBGCD Volunteer Veer Raju was here at his village. His close association with Soulbath Peace Foundation and be part of the community inspired by the RBGCD initiated a door to door distribution of sweets in about 80 houses of the village. The villagers were happy to be part of the RBGCD Day. Through the sweets Sri Raj Bhowmik's fragrance reached the interior most village in the State. We learnt that there are innumerable channels of compassion who speak different languages but the outcome will always be the same with a smile on people’s faces. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving the opportunity to celebrate the spirit of RBGCD in my home village.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
ON A TRAIN JOURNEY
Renuka Mani (Corporate Trainer)
This RBGCD we were travelling but did not want to miss it. We celebrated RBGCD in the train on our way to Pune. I got down the train in 2 occasions to give away food packets to old men who were very poor. One of them was even disabled. When he saw food he lifted his head and smiled and blessed me. There were many in the train and we both did RBGCD together. Remembering the old gentleman and the smile on his face made me feel good. Joining this ocean of compassion through the RBGCD, I felt happy that we could give it to people who needed it the most.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
Shubha Godbole was busy shooting for her serial but had decided not to miss the RBGCD. She wanted to do something for the children on the streets of Mumbai on her way to work. She gave away food packets to hungry children. In a heart touching gesture, summer being the mango fruit months, she had baked a delicious mango cake and generously shared the cake. Everybody should give. When we are all getting so much we should do this everyday. That’s what the RBGCD platform encourages people to do, to act, to perform.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS VISIT BLIND SCHOOL VARANASI
The RBGCD team at Varanasi visited the Hanuman Prasad Poddar Andh Vidyalaya to reach out to 40 children. Amidst a day where the temperature in the city was high and no supplies, a sigh of relief came when wholesalers decided to deliver the provisions to the door step of the Blind School. The Manifestation of truly being useful to Society is always respected and it’s about finding options when we hit the crossroads. Our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik has said: “When you give, not for the sake of getting back, but out of pure compassion, then the joy which you receive in return, is not less than the joy of getting the most precious gift”
RBGCD Volunteers Ajai and Rajni Jain were very happy to participate in the RBGCD platform and are looking forward to more such interactions in the future.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
RAMANA VIDYA PEETHAM TIRUCHULI
The RBGCD was celebrated at Ramana Vidya Peetham welcoming 30 children. These children were from nearby villages that are still remote in their facilities. They still have to walk a long way and families are still dependent on the monsoons for their living.
Words from Maa Narmada & Swami Sethuraman, -Caregivers at the Ramana Vidya Peetham
In the first interaction the children asked us in the native language ‘ what is compassion ‘ and we told them it was love. We asked them to express in how many ways they felt and expressed this love in their day to day life. We had very moving experiences that the children shared with us. All the children had one common expression. They never like to see their mother and father fight, never liked to see fights of any kind neither in the village nor among friends or families or relatives. We could understand that they got the essence of the subject.
We listened to every soul that shared its compassionate experiences. Arya mala a 10 year old child said ‘my father always drinks and beats my mother, but I love both of them. My mother would cry all night and would get up in the morning and cook for all of us and take care of us. One day I went up to my father and told him dad I love you both so much that it pains to see you and mother fight. Please don’t drink. The father was so moved by the love of his little daughter that he resolved never to drink again.
Another little girl Sangeetha walking to school narrated that she saw an old woman on the road struggling with a bundle of thorny sticks on her head. The thorns on the bundle had scratched her hand and torn her saree. This little girl left her school bag with the old lady and carried the bundle to the old woman's house. Then the children played and painted, had snacks and hot lunch of rice, sambar , potatoes and papads were served. They ate with joy and got their new pencil kit.
They all joined to thank, to put it in their own words ‘ thank you Ramana, thank you Master Raj Bhowmik for this wonderful day.’ The RBGCD is practical spirituality. Our own Masters have always taught us to give back to society. I am moved. This RBGCD is the only way to reach out to more and more souls who need help. We would like to connect with you, Master Raj Bhowmik. Spirituality has to manifest like this. One has to be moving around with the downtrodden to really become a Master. Not someone who is sitting on a throne.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERING IN BARASAT
Dr. Joydeep Chatterjee (Gynecologist, Specilization Infertility & High Risk Pregnancy) -
On the occasion of RBGCD we arranged an event for children at the near by Loknath Temple. After eating they demanded that we play together and I was hopping and jumping around like a child with them. I have gone through the writings of Sri Raj Bhowmik and he is surely an enlightened soul. Today, strangely I met a old known person who offered that we could both fund the feeding in the school. It has opened doors where more children can be accommodated. The RBGCD is a good effort and involving myself as part of it, I feel good. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS VISIT ANGEL HOUSE - OLD AGE HOME AND ORPHANAGE
The RBGCD Team visited Angel House in Chennai. It has an orphanage, an old-age home and a destitute woman centre in the same premise. Donations and provisions were supplied and time was spent with the children.
Lakshmi Sunil (Physiotherapist & Principal at Arvind Foundation)
I was focused on going to an orphanage on this RBGCD and discovered that Angel House existed right next door. It feels wonderful to be part of a noble deed which is like bringing together the country and the world together through one platform where everybody is doing the same thing of sharing and giving. It is great to know that so many people across the world have participated. Sri Raj Bhowmik gave me an opportunity to do this and bring everybody under a single platform. Thank You Sri Raj.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
GURUKULAM VOLUNTEER
Rajmohan Pai (Head Marketing Support, Sundaram Finance, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
We began with a theme where the kids sang and danced. Then we recited rhymes. The children were very young between 4 to 13 years. When asked ‘what do you want to become’, some responded teacher, doctor, police, IAS. I told them Sri Raj Bhowmik’s message from Soul Song that whatever their desire is, they just need to believe in it. They quietly listened to me. Then we distributed apples and said bye to each other. What moved me is that I realized that these children were longing for love. Some children were sitting very close to me, some put their head on my lap. They long for someone to listen to and love them. I felt good to be doing this as part of a Global Movement. More than money I realized that spending time is more important. When I distributed the apples, they just took it. But when we were together, they felt good. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for the RBGCD platform as this is the first time that I have gone and spent time like this with children. Earlier my contribution would only be limited to financial. This time it was about involving myself. Thank You Soulbath Peace Foundation. A big thank you to Sri Raj Bhowmik.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN ST. LOUIS HOME Orphanage
Anantha Krishnan (Transport Division, Accenture, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
The most moving experience was to learn that the kids who were in the orphanage were brought in by cops who were disowned by their parents and found in dustbins, on the highway, etc. We now want to support this work and we have already initiated talks in our company after going back from here. This platform of RBGCD has given me a start. I always wanted to do something but never knew where to start. I more responsible in action after being to the orphanage as part of the RBGCD Day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
ST. LAWRENCE FOUNDATION
The RB-BTS Day Volunteers reached Lawrence Foundation, Chennai. It was about spending time together with orphan children.
Sheeba Radhamohan (V.P of Axis Bank, wife of famous Tamil Movie Director Mr. Radhamohan and SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
I felt content. It feels wonderful to be connected to all through this Global Movement. It feels like there is a sense of largeness and everything is linked and connected. Thanks to Sri Raj for giving us this one day to be so connected. Wanting to be like that now all the time.
Deepika Kumaravel (Wife Of Tamil Actor Mr. Kumaravel, Creative Professional)
RBGCD was a very good experience and we have now decided that we would do it more often. It has been one of the most fulfilling days. My daughter also accompanied us and it is very important for children to learn to give. I thank Sri Raj for giving Laya and me an opportunity to set something in our lives that will go on and on. It is very simple yet life changing. The momentum has begun.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
RAMAKRISHNA MISSION ORPHANAGE
Kavitha Sridharan (Entrepreneur & Jewellery Designer @ Chinagari )
I visited the Ramakrishna Mission orphanage today with my children to participate in the RBGCD. This Day has been an enriching experience, it makes one feel grateful to where you are and how much you can do towards Society in general.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
YOUTH VOLUNTEERS IN CHENNAI
Aditi Jain (Visual Communication Student at MOP Vaishnav College), Chennai
On the 10th of May four of us - Nupoor Rajkumar, Tejas Ramaratnam, Nandeeshwar Selvakumar and I, Aditi Jain went to 'Snehalaya' an orphanage in Ayapakkam, Chennai. It was a first time visit to an Orphanage for all the four of us and we had an amazing time with the children there. We were extremely overjoyed when they invited us to come visit them sometime again. I am deeply grateful to Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving us this awesome opportunity in getting closer to the needy of society. I would like to thank Shri Raj Bhowmik for initiating this Global movement and helping us realize and understand the people around us. It was indeed a heartwarming experience. We were so happy to be part of RBGCD.
VOLUNTEERS OFFER FOOD AT AMBEDKAR SLUM.
TEAM- Mother and Son duo (Mohua and Neel) as part of the RB-BTS Day.
Mohua Chinappa (Wife Of M.B.Chinappa , CFO Syngene)
It was moving to see the happiness of small little children. They were well behaved to find original smiles that are beyond the plasticity or urban life. This opportunity made me realize how brave I am to go into a community where I don’t know the language. I realized that there is no language needed to express emotions. It was a totally soul satisfying day. Even Neel was happy. He said that something so small like buns are making them happy. I am happy to be part of a larger cause that feels for people. Usually we take many things for granted and it remains untouched in our lives. We spend millions on some vacations and other things. This is a small and worthwhile contribution.
I am thankful to the platform of RBGCD and Sri Raj Bhowmik, as I experienced unadulterated joy with the children. Through this I am rediscovering myself.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS AT INFANT JESUS HOME
TEAM - Mother and Daughter (Sanjana and Dashya -Age 6)
RBGCD Team reached Infant Jesus Home only to realize that the family there wanted somebody to listen to them. They sang and ate Ice creams together. Just listening to them about their daily life feels so good just like how everybody wants to be heard and appreciated in a relationship. There were 60 boys at the home from age 6 – 14. 6 year old Dashya will always remember this special May 10th in her life – that taught her that when we extend our palms, somebody is always there to hold
In our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik’s words who always encourages people to live by their heart – “I have learned that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of people who live by the heart. I have learned that love and compassion, not time, heals all wounds.”
Sanjana
Infant Jesus Home always existed in the neighborhood and we must have crossed it a billion times. However when we make an effort to create a difference, we begin to take notice of the smallest places that we missed because we begin to Pause and Focus. This is where CORPORitual begins and takes us forward in a Growing Existence. For the first time in my life when I visited a home I felt genuinely happy as I saw happy smiles. So often we see orphans pleasing or frightened or well trained to talk to a visitor. The children here were not pressurized and were grateful for a small ice cream. I felt somewhere they were lonely and thought I should just listen to them. My daughter was touched deeply. She initially was very sad knowing about their parents but slowly became happy in their presence. I feel grateful and the capacity to make a small difference in someone’s life ..small but meaningful. The finding of the place took a whole half day and it was not easy initially.
The RBGCD Platform is like an awakening. I am thankful to the RBGCD Day that I was able to do something in my vicinity. This was like a push to do something and be a part of something worthwhile. I am thankful to Sri Raj Bhowmik.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN RAKUM BLIND SCHOOL
This visit to Sri Rakum School for blind children, on RBGCD was memorable. All volunteer's life were transforming for the very first time and we all felt the most relieving and inspiring moments of our lives. The RBGCD volunteers reached out to 250 visually challenged children and understood their living conditions, their world of darkness and about their fully aware and alert self. A peep into the lives of these children will open a whole world inside us that we still need to see and transform.
Aparna Suri (Proprieter of Salon Mousse and SPIGA), Bangalore
Once I understood the world at Rakum I decided that I could cook for them on a regular basis. I realized what else can we do. We offered them things on the list and they were overwhelmed at Rakum. They taught us how to read Braille. Whenever I would see a blind person crossing the road, I would always have tears in my eyes. We always spend money on other things and take for granted. I would like to reduce a part of my entertainment funds and do something constructive here every month. It was so wonderful to see that in spite of who they are the children were so comfortable in their surrounding and well equipped. I had always passed by the school but never entered here before this. I feel so amazing being part of this big compassion wave today as it has been across the world. If we all try even a bit we can make a small difference and even that matters to someone so much. I feel very useful today. This experience has been like an appetizer in my life. I am grateful to the RBGCD platform as this was an eye opener. I would like to tell Sri Raj today that a little bit of time that I made created a difference that is ten folds and also that life must not be taken for granted.
Savina Sud (Category manager, Fashion and You), Bangalore
It was an inspiring visit and I realized that we have everything and we are still cribbing. I am overwhelmed about being part of this compassion ocean and I am lucky to be part of it. There is a peace in my heart that I am feeling now. For the first time in my life, my head was right there when I am with them and no where else. I am thankful to Sri Raj and he is doing phenomenal work. This RBGCD platform has helped me experience empathy that I have never ever experienced before.
Naveen Kewalramani (Business Owner Sachin Farms) , Bangalore
The whole experience has given me a nice feeling. When I saw the children I initially felt very sad and I realized what more could I do for them. I have from today promised them 12 kg of food every wed from my farm which I can surely do. We would like to convey to Sri Raj Bhowmik who has given us the RBGCD platform that we are there with him.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS ON THE STREETS
In the hot summer months when the sun is scorching right above, few glasses of cold water and juice offered with Love is the biggest relief. Our RBGCD Volunteer Team comprising of Dr. Arundhati (Gynecologist) and her children reached out to the following domains of 80 poor people in all in the close vicinity of her home:
- People who sweep the road
- Cook in the police dept
- Dhobis in the police dept
- Needy caretakers
- Street children
- Vegetable Vendors
- Autodrivers
- Sales executive women traveling on foot.
About 50 adults and 30 children were included in the RBGCD family through this interaction. The people had smiles on their faces in the hot tiring, sunny day.
Dr Arundhati (Gynecologist), Bangalore
We decided to extend and reach out to people who were moving. I realized the more we give, the more is given and we are all channels. As part of the RBGCD Compassion ocean, I want it to grow. We need to respect uniqueness where there is no demarcation. It is a flow of energy that is immeasurable and everybody should experience it in their lifetime. People who have bottled up their feelings especially need to experience it. This is a platform that I was searching and it is God Sent. I thank Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving me this opportunity to be a channel of compassion.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
THE PASSION SPREADS - CAFE COFFEE DAY JOINS THE DREAM
Sharanya is a small orphanage. It was started by Sir C.V. Raman’s wife. Mr. Jayanth (President Café Coffee Day), inspired by the RB-BTS Day sent a momentum rolling in his office about doing something collaboratively with his team. Announcements went through mailers and posters at Café Coffee Day outlets so that many more would be inspired by May 10th. In no time about 50 employees at Café Coffee Day rose to the RB-BTS Day Call by their leader. When leaders are driven by inspirations, the team follows. The employees got enough provisions for a whole month and together they took it to Sharanya and spent time with the children.
As Sri Raj Bhowmik says in his book CORPORitual:
“We need to remember that in the human form we do not have the privilege to play with time, as long as we want. Before the Chief Referee blows his whistle, we have to make our lives meaningful. If we do not make a difference to the world in any way, before we have to leave, then, what meaning do we have for the time spent here? We just came, and we will just be gone. Stop for a while and ask yourself, Is that how you want to ‘live’ and ‘leave’?”
– Sri Raj Bhowmik
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN SINGAPORE
The RBGCD Team traveled to METTA, an organization in Singapore that takes care of the disabled and terminally ill elderly. The team comprised of a mother and daughter duo who carried fresh apples to serve 60 elderly women to mark the celebration of RBGCD. Anuradha Kashi and her daughter Apoorva believe that this was a fulfilling experience for them to be part of RBGCD in Singapore.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN JAMGHAT DELHI
On the occasion of the RB-BTS Day, a team comprising of 2 families visited a home where street children are housed – Jamghat. The day was a unique celebration where Lion King was shown. The children began connecting their everyday life to the likes depicted in the film including their fights. Everybody came up with their own story of how the movie was relevant to their life. Their responses were about home, staying together, happiness. The RBGCD Volunteers carried biscuits, fruits & juices for them as refreshments. One of the volunteers from Meerut manufacture bats, balls and the cricket set and left behind the treasure for the children to enjoy and remember the RBGCD day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
MOVEMENT RIPPLES IN GUWAHATI
RB-BTS Day Volunteer Indu Lakhotia (MOM, Home maker)
15 RBGCD Volunteers went to Matri Mandir. It was so moving to see children who are so small as young as 3 months. The children loved the toys we carried and it was good to see them learn to play with the toys. They were so engrossed that they didn’t worry about the food. My younger daughter about age 9 said that we need to come here regularly. I am thankful to the RBGCD platform that showed me a new side of life with a very compassionate angle.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VANITA ANATH ASHRAM DEHRADUN
Ritu Kothari (PhD student, Dehradun)
We went to Vanitha Anath Ashram with some of my friends as part of RBGCD. My sister in Jodhpur had told me about RBGCD. We found that orphan children from grade 1 to 12 lived there and were given free tuitions. What was moving was to hear a girl sing so beautifully. My friends were so moved that one also began to cry and we all decided that once a year we would celebrate an ocassion at this place. I am feeling that I have done something useful today and I am feeling worthy. Having done Child psychology in my college, I used to think about doing something for children. I heard about RBGCD and I did it. Thank You for giving me this opportunity. This is my life’s happiest day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN TRIBAL ORPHANAGE
RBGCD volunteers reached a tribal children’s orphanage home. It is a unique charity project catering to the deepest villages where event the Govt. projects and benefits have not reached. Till today there are witch doctors and the tribals are completely dependent on fruits from the trees. The family who volunteered for the RBGCD were inspired to be a part of our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik’s vision of compassion. The whole family visited the orphanage to learn more about the children, the work and the need of the project in the area. The RBGCD volunteers learnt through this day how even medical facilities did not reach the homes in the deepest jungles and the nearest localities were about 7 km away. The volunteers were touched when they learnt about how the project started and how the members of the orphanage were initially not welcome in the tribal villages to now taking care of them. About 65 children are members of the orphanage.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
CHORAMPUDI VILLAGE ANDRA PRADESH
Chorampudi is a small village with a population of about 2000 people. It is located in Krishna dist and the nearest town Machilipatnam is about 30 km away. RBGCD Volunteer Veer Raju was here at his village. His close association with Soulbath Peace Foundation and be part of the community inspired by the RBGCD initiated a door to door distribution of sweets in about 80 houses of the village. The villagers were happy to be part of the RBGCD Day. Through the sweets Sri Raj Bhowmik's fragrance reached the interior most village in the State. We learnt that there are innumerable channels of compassion who speak different languages but the outcome will always be the same with a smile on people’s faces. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving the opportunity to celebrate the spirit of RBGCD in my home village.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
ON A TRAIN JOURNEY
Renuka Mani (Corporate Trainer)
This RBGCD we were travelling but did not want to miss it. We celebrated RBGCD in the train on our way to Pune. I got down the train in 2 occasions to give away food packets to old men who were very poor. One of them was even disabled. When he saw food he lifted his head and smiled and blessed me. There were many in the train and we both did RBGCD together. Remembering the old gentleman and the smile on his face made me feel good. Joining this ocean of compassion through the RBGCD, I felt happy that we could give it to people who needed it the most.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
Shubha Godbole was busy shooting for her serial but had decided not to miss the RBGCD. She wanted to do something for the children on the streets of Mumbai on her way to work. She gave away food packets to hungry children. In a heart touching gesture, summer being the mango fruit months, she had baked a delicious mango cake and generously shared the cake. Everybody should give. When we are all getting so much we should do this everyday. That’s what the RBGCD platform encourages people to do, to act, to perform.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS VISIT BLIND SCHOOL VARANASI
The RBGCD team at Varanasi visited the Hanuman Prasad Poddar Andh Vidyalaya to reach out to 40 children. Amidst a day where the temperature in the city was high and no supplies, a sigh of relief came when wholesalers decided to deliver the provisions to the door step of the Blind School. The Manifestation of truly being useful to Society is always respected and it’s about finding options when we hit the crossroads. Our Founder Sri Raj Bhowmik has said: “When you give, not for the sake of getting back, but out of pure compassion, then the joy which you receive in return, is not less than the joy of getting the most precious gift”
RBGCD Volunteers Ajai and Rajni Jain were very happy to participate in the RBGCD platform and are looking forward to more such interactions in the future.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
RAMANA VIDYA PEETHAM TIRUCHULI
The RBGCD was celebrated at Ramana Vidya Peetham welcoming 30 children. These children were from nearby villages that are still remote in their facilities. They still have to walk a long way and families are still dependent on the monsoons for their living.
Words from Maa Narmada & Swami Sethuraman, -Caregivers at the Ramana Vidya Peetham
In the first interaction the children asked us in the native language ‘ what is compassion ‘ and we told them it was love. We asked them to express in how many ways they felt and expressed this love in their day to day life. We had very moving experiences that the children shared with us. All the children had one common expression. They never like to see their mother and father fight, never liked to see fights of any kind neither in the village nor among friends or families or relatives. We could understand that they got the essence of the subject.
We listened to every soul that shared its compassionate experiences. Arya mala a 10 year old child said ‘my father always drinks and beats my mother, but I love both of them. My mother would cry all night and would get up in the morning and cook for all of us and take care of us. One day I went up to my father and told him dad I love you both so much that it pains to see you and mother fight. Please don’t drink. The father was so moved by the love of his little daughter that he resolved never to drink again.
Another little girl Sangeetha walking to school narrated that she saw an old woman on the road struggling with a bundle of thorny sticks on her head. The thorns on the bundle had scratched her hand and torn her saree. This little girl left her school bag with the old lady and carried the bundle to the old woman's house. Then the children played and painted, had snacks and hot lunch of rice, sambar , potatoes and papads were served. They ate with joy and got their new pencil kit.
They all joined to thank, to put it in their own words ‘ thank you Ramana, thank you Master Raj Bhowmik for this wonderful day.’ The RBGCD is practical spirituality. Our own Masters have always taught us to give back to society. I am moved. This RBGCD is the only way to reach out to more and more souls who need help. We would like to connect with you, Master Raj Bhowmik. Spirituality has to manifest like this. One has to be moving around with the downtrodden to really become a Master. Not someone who is sitting on a throne.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERING IN BARASAT
Dr. Joydeep Chatterjee (Gynecologist, Specilization Infertility & High Risk Pregnancy) -
On the occasion of RBGCD we arranged an event for children at the near by Loknath Temple. After eating they demanded that we play together and I was hopping and jumping around like a child with them. I have gone through the writings of Sri Raj Bhowmik and he is surely an enlightened soul. Today, strangely I met a old known person who offered that we could both fund the feeding in the school. It has opened doors where more children can be accommodated. The RBGCD is a good effort and involving myself as part of it, I feel good. Thank You Sri Raj Bhowmik
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS VISIT ANGEL HOUSE - OLD AGE HOME AND ORPHANAGE
The RBGCD Team visited Angel House in Chennai. It has an orphanage, an old-age home and a destitute woman centre in the same premise. Donations and provisions were supplied and time was spent with the children.
Lakshmi Sunil (Physiotherapist & Principal at Arvind Foundation)
I was focused on going to an orphanage on this RBGCD and discovered that Angel House existed right next door. It feels wonderful to be part of a noble deed which is like bringing together the country and the world together through one platform where everybody is doing the same thing of sharing and giving. It is great to know that so many people across the world have participated. Sri Raj Bhowmik gave me an opportunity to do this and bring everybody under a single platform. Thank You Sri Raj.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
GURUKULAM VOLUNTEER
Rajmohan Pai (Head Marketing Support, Sundaram Finance, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
We began with a theme where the kids sang and danced. Then we recited rhymes. The children were very young between 4 to 13 years. When asked ‘what do you want to become’, some responded teacher, doctor, police, IAS. I told them Sri Raj Bhowmik’s message from Soul Song that whatever their desire is, they just need to believe in it. They quietly listened to me. Then we distributed apples and said bye to each other. What moved me is that I realized that these children were longing for love. Some children were sitting very close to me, some put their head on my lap. They long for someone to listen to and love them. I felt good to be doing this as part of a Global Movement. More than money I realized that spending time is more important. When I distributed the apples, they just took it. But when we were together, they felt good. Thank you Sri Raj Bhowmik for the RBGCD platform as this is the first time that I have gone and spent time like this with children. Earlier my contribution would only be limited to financial. This time it was about involving myself. Thank You Soulbath Peace Foundation. A big thank you to Sri Raj Bhowmik.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
VOLUNTEERS IN ST. LOUIS HOME Orphanage
Anantha Krishnan (Transport Division, Accenture, SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
The most moving experience was to learn that the kids who were in the orphanage were brought in by cops who were disowned by their parents and found in dustbins, on the highway, etc. We now want to support this work and we have already initiated talks in our company after going back from here. This platform of RBGCD has given me a start. I always wanted to do something but never knew where to start. I more responsible in action after being to the orphanage as part of the RBGCD Day.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
ST. LAWRENCE FOUNDATION
The RB-BTS Day Volunteers reached Lawrence Foundation, Chennai. It was about spending time together with orphan children.
Sheeba Radhamohan (V.P of Axis Bank, wife of famous Tamil Movie Director Mr. Radhamohan and SAHHEAL Healing Consultant)
I felt content. It feels wonderful to be connected to all through this Global Movement. It feels like there is a sense of largeness and everything is linked and connected. Thanks to Sri Raj for giving us this one day to be so connected. Wanting to be like that now all the time.
Deepika Kumaravel (Wife Of Tamil Actor Mr. Kumaravel, Creative Professional)
RBGCD was a very good experience and we have now decided that we would do it more often. It has been one of the most fulfilling days. My daughter also accompanied us and it is very important for children to learn to give. I thank Sri Raj for giving Laya and me an opportunity to set something in our lives that will go on and on. It is very simple yet life changing. The momentum has begun.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
RAMAKRISHNA MISSION ORPHANAGE
Kavitha Sridharan (Entrepreneur & Jewellery Designer @ Chinagari )
I visited the Ramakrishna Mission orphanage today with my children to participate in the RBGCD. This Day has been an enriching experience, it makes one feel grateful to where you are and how much you can do towards Society in general.
RB-BTS DAY, 2011
YOUTH VOLUNTEERS IN CHENNAI
Aditi Jain (Visual Communication Student at MOP Vaishnav College), Chennai
On the 10th of May four of us - Nupoor Rajkumar, Tejas Ramaratnam, Nandeeshwar Selvakumar and I, Aditi Jain went to 'Snehalaya' an orphanage in Ayapakkam, Chennai. It was a first time visit to an Orphanage for all the four of us and we had an amazing time with the children there. We were extremely overjoyed when they invited us to come visit them sometime again. I am deeply grateful to Sri Raj Bhowmik for giving us this awesome opportunity in getting closer to the needy of society. I would like to thank Shri Raj Bhowmik for initiating this Global movement and helping us realize and understand the people around us. It was indeed a heartwarming experience. We were so happy to be part of RBGCD.