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We didn't need no background music to feel pumped up!
Launch of our dream projects by Dr Kalam
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The Banyan's Health Centre & Protected Community were officially inaugurated with the snip of red ribbons by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on 23rd August 2007. We, The Banyan family, were joined by our loyal volunteers, long standing donors, well-wishers and celebrity supporters Mani Ratnam, Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith, Revathy Menon, Vivek Oberoi, Nachiket Mor at this milestone event.
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| First stop, the Health Centre, a key project that pursues the dream of seeing no mentally ill homeless person on the road ever. The former president was ushered in here with a folk drum roll. Quite in key with the magic of the moment, kids from the Kovalam School lined up waving popsicle-sized Indian flags. |
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| Dr Kalam while wending his way through the adoring crowd was introduced to the Board of Trustees, the concept of BALM and the Health Centre's role. Each of the rooms was inaugurated by Dr Kalam alongside the Chief Guest who sponsored the room and the amenities to reach out to the marginalized. This was followed by a visit to the patients at the 12-bed hospital. The patients, needless to say, forgot their illness and were overjoyed on meeting the former president. |
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| There was no question of settling down. The Protected Community - The Banyan Village, the new home of the long stay residents where they regain a secure and independent lifestyle, was waiting. As Dr Kalam alighted from his ambassador, the Nadhaswaram and Molam went into rapture. This was a very special moment for the Self Help Group women as they all milled around him. The next big moment was the tree planting ceremony which was conducted with a lot of fanfare. |
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Guests also had a peek into another exciting project of The Banyan that's soon to be launched - Spice Route, the Social Enterprise Wing set up to empower the Self Help Group, Vizhudugal. The SHG women will run this enterprise right from inventory to service. 1498, Spice Route' store got off to a great start with guests rummaging through its unique wares sourced from leading apparel brands and artisans across India.
Next stop for The Banyan - Official Launch of Spice Route! 1498 is just an exciting part. Inji, the cafe and essence, the spa, are all set to woo your taste buds and your need for indulgence.
Watch this space!
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