Living in the Bay of Bengal

With the easing of lockdown happening gradually, time to welcome my newest addition, Neha to the family. I don’t know when CI arrange visitations, can sponsors accommodate time to prepare a meal (even in outdoor) for the family, provided they bring their own cooking ingredients/utensils – any thoughts?

My Dear Neha,

It's been nearly 2 months since you joined my family of sponsored children from around the globe. As I write this letter, you will have noticed a difference around you as people's daily lives are not as used to be with the spread of a viral disease everywhere and the devastation left by a cyclone last month. I hope and pray that you and your family are keeping safe and well.

To me, Kolkata is like no other place on earth with such vibrant and rich culture. When I first saw you, my eyes immediately caught up with your hand gesture (Bharatanatyam, the classical dance of India) combined with rhythmic Bangla music brought home my very first Bangla dancer of Bharat – Welcome dhuwa! (daughter as in my mother tongue)

First, so that you know me, my name is Chelaka. I was born in Sri Lanka, neighboring island in South Asia, but now live in Scotland of Great Britain (four and a half hours behind you). I have been a CI sponsor for 15 years now. I love our common heritage of upbringing shaped by religion, languages and art.

How far away do you live from the River Ganges (Hugli or Hooghly River as called in West Bengal)? Does your family take you there often for ritual bathing? Have you seen yet the majestic Bengal tiger in the wild forest, or crocodiles in the river basin? What do you do during annual Durga Puja festivity? Do you live in rural villages in the Sundarbans peninsula?

How close are you to school from home and do you walk everyday? What's your favorite subject in third grade studies, and what would you like to be when you grow up?

When I make my travel back home someday, I'd love to pay a visit to see you and prepare a meal for the whole family. Do you think it's a good idea?

Stay safe and healthy!

Lots of Love,

Chelaka

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