What's Diwali ?
Diwali, known as Deepavadi in Tamil Nadu, is celebrated with the lighting of oil lamps, bursting of crackers, and sharing of sweets to mark the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon Narakasura. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, bringing families together in joy, renewal, and hope for the year ahead.
Distribution of gifts for the children
For Diwali, it is customary to offer gifts. VCDS therefore organizes a gift distribution for the 500 students of its 10 non-formal schools. Every year, just before Diwali, the children, helped by their teachers, make a list of what they wish for.
A complex organisation
The list is sent to Victor Pravin Icumar, the president of the association, who then contacts his wide network. Generous people decide to purchase some of the gifts from the list and send them to VCDS. The purchase and delivery of the gifts may take several months. Once the gifts are received, VCDS stores them and redistributes them among the different schools according to their lists. The distribution to the children takes place only after all the gifts have been received.
