Freedom in Full Bloom at RCB Lighthouse
WHERE PATRIOTISM MEETS YOUNG TALENT
This Independence Day, the RCB Lighthouse was alive with the colours of the tricolour, the sound of children’s laughter, and the spirit of community. RCB President Bimal Mehta, PP Shernaz Vakil, PE Manish Reshamwala, and CWC Chair Rtn. Meher Vakil joined hands with Macchimar community head Mr. Patil, Lighthouse children, and their parents to mark the occasion in true Rotary style—blending purpose with celebration.
President Bimal Mehta inspired the young audience, reminding them that freedom is not just a gift but a responsibility, urging each child to do their part in helping the nation flourish. Rtn. Meher, reflecting on seven years of community partnership, expressed heartfelt thanks for their unwavering support and congratulated them on their brand-new hall.
The day’s programme was a kaleidoscope of performances—Junior KG’s joyful dance, Senior KG’s soul-stirring patriotic song, and Classes 1–5 dazzling with confident speeches about freedom fighters and a compelling skit on life before and after Independence. Yoga and Taekwondo demonstrations added a disciplined edge, showing the holistic growth Lighthouse fosters.
One of the most touching highlights? The entire celebration was steered by Lighthouse alumni—children who once entered as wideeyed Senior KG students and have never let go of the bond. Now returning every Friday, they guided the programme, hosted a lively quiz that had Rotarians on their toes, and ran the show without a single teacher touching the mic—a testament to true student leadership.
The celebration also embraced Parsi New Year, with a cake brought by Rtn. Meher Vakil, symbolising joy across cultures.
Among the smiling faces in the audience were Ms. Bhavna Daftary, the project’s primary donor, whose generous support makes Lighthouse’s work possible and who joined in the celebrations with heartfelt encouragement for the children; Inner Wheel President Roopal Thakkar, whose motivating words inspired the young performers; PP Nandan Damani, Rtn. Ptn. Malti Jain, Rtn. Rajesh Shah, Rtn. Mihir Mody, Rtn. Charu Agrawal, Rtn. Pilloo Aga, and Rtn. Dilip Dalal, along with many others whose presence added warmth to the day. Snacks and sweets, thoughtfully arranged by Rtn. Meher and Rtn. Charu, were savoured by every child.
As the festivities wound down, gratitude filled the air—for Ms. Bhavna Daftary, the Vidya teachers, mentor Manisha Ahuja, Rtn. Ptn. Ekta Shah, and all who keep the spirit of freedom alive in the next generation.
