Shishumela- A Celebration of Childhood

Seva Kendra Calcutta Extension, Kharagpur and Namasole Pally Mangal Samity, West Midnapore organised a three-day children’s fete at Baligeria Haat Ground, Nayagram from February 18 to February 20, 2014.   This event was generously supported by our sponsor.  This three-day event meant exclusively for the children was packed with cultural dance, drama, songs, magic show and panel discussion. The different programmes on each of these three days highlighted different themes and messages on their Tribal and Bengali culture, importance of attending school regularly, science and environmental concerns. At the end of the three-day Shishumela, a small rally was held on the ground.  The children joined this rally singing, holding placards and shouting slogans on children’s rights. There were five informative stalls on Education, Nutrition, Health and dignity on all the three days.  The stalls were manned by the government and our project staff.  This year’s Shishumela event saw a footfall of 1000 visitors every day. The event also received full support from the government authorities.

Shishumela article published in The Statesman on March 09, 2014

A tribal dance by the High School students

Inaugural song by students on Day 1

Children performing a dance recital

Panel Discussion

Children at one of the Stalls

Children's Rally