Mangaluru: “It’s time to count our blessings and also spare a thought for the less fortunate. We can show in our very own way how we can make a small difference in their lives, even by the smallest act of kindness by providing them the necessary help, develop empathy and understand those who are in need. It’s time for action, for not just thinking about it, but for doing something meaningful”, said Dr. V Ravichandran, CEO, Diya Systems, the pioneering IT company rooted in Mangaluru. He was speaking as the chief guest at the launch of the Johnlyn Toy Exchange and Book Bank, promoted by John B Monteiro, veteran journalist and author, at Bondel, Mangaluru on January 27.
Continuing, Dr Ravindranath said, “Today, the world is in greater need of charity than ever before. The gap between the rich and the poor is widening. While on one hand, we have the billionaire businessmen, sport stars and movie stars, on the other hand, we have millions of diseased and starving men, women and children dying for that one morsel of grain that would keep them alive. If all the rich people and even people who are reasonably well-off, contribute something in terms of money, food, clothes or even empathy, then the world would definitely be better off.”
“The Toy Exchange and Book Bank is all about supporting the cause with non-financial aid. Are there any toys that are lying around at the back of your closet which your children have outgrown? Do you have pre-loved books that you no longer use but are still in good and readable condition? So why just keep them at home and leave them to dust? Why not share them with the less privileged children and adults? John Monteiro has started this brilliant initiative of collecting various toys and books unused by children and adults, so that they can be distributed at various institutions caring for poor children.”
Twelve children from three institutions caring for poor children were presented hampers of toys. Dr. Ravichandran offered to install games apparatus for children on the campus of the three institutions invited for the function.
Speaking on the occasion, Vathika Pai, President, Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Guest of Honour at the function, lauded Monteiro’s initiative and urged sustained support for the altruistic venture.
Another Guest of Honour Walter Nandalike, Founder and Head of the Daijiworld organisation, said that his organisation would extend full support for the toy and book exchange initiative.
The renovated outhouse exclusively hosting the toys and books was blessed by Fr. Vinod Lobo of Bondel Parish before the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
While John Monteiro welcomed the gathering, his daughter, Primrose Monteiro-D’Souza and his son Mohan Monteiro, jointly conducted the proceedings.
