12th of February was an evening filled with much joy when Dr Kiran took to the stage to render a collection of old Bollywood classics at Sri Sathya Sai auditorium in Delhi.
The Music Concert that was attended by nearly 300 people was organised to pay tribute to Asha’s volunteer teams from Monash University, Australia, and Methodist College, Belfast, Northern Ireland. Joining us as guests of honour were Irish Ambassador, HE Feilim McLaughlin and Deputy Australian High Commissioner, Mr Bernard Philip.
The event began with Asha Student Ambassador, Ajay, from Kusmpur Pahari slum colony, talking about his journey with Asha. This was followed by representatives from both the teams and from Asha’s Delhi based volunteers addressing the audience to talk about their experiences with Asha. Ruth McKibben from Methodist College, Belfast, in a heartfelt address, said, “Visiting Asha actually helps us as well. The values that Asha holds – of dignity, empowerment, compassion and joy – are something that all of us, no matter what nation we come from, can take back with us”.
“I am so glad to be a part of the Asha family!” announced Ms Rhian Adlam from Monash University, Australia who are on their second consecutive visit this year. Talking on behalf of Asha’s Delhi based volunteers, Ms Louise Wilson who spoke in high words about her role as one of Asha’s Internship Programme coordinators, “What strikes me the most, when I talk to Asha Students, is that they are no different from students from anywhere else in the world… all thanks to the vision of Dr Kiran, the Asha staff and supporters all around the world”.
Addressing the gathering, HE McLaughlin commended the students for their hard work and shared his own reflections about Asha. Mr Philip, who was attending the event on behalf of the Australian High Commissioner, HE Patrick Suckling talked about the High Commission’s long-standing association with Asha and his own involvement with various Asha programmes.
Following this, Dr Kiran had the audience spellbound with a concert of old melodies of renowned Indian playback singer, Lata Mangeshkar from 60’s and 70’s. Dr Kiran’s performance so enthralled the audience that they were cheering for each song amidst roaring applause.
The evening came to a happy closure with the guests interacting over dinner.
To see more photographs from the event Click here
