1. Vol.XXXXIII,No1.April-May2011
How your contributions enable children to live in a loving family environment and achieve their potential
Dear Friends
I am touched by the feelings of Ms
Rosette Mody whose precious letter is
appearing on Page No 7 of this
messenger. Words are not adequate to
acknowledge our thanks for her
contribution towards this great cause.
Her concern is overflowing. This unique
kind of relationship and gestures make
SOS Children’s Villages feel proud of the endeavours our
friends are making for the needy children. I profusely thank her
and many more of you who are participating in our endeavour
to provide a loving home for every needy child. I also would like
to thank those of you in anticipation who would become our
friends in the future to be a part of our dream and the dreams of
the children we bring up.
Since my association with SOS Children’s Villages I have
been travelling to our Villages and family homes. The
interaction with mothers, grandmothers, children and some of
the settled children has given me a great sense of fulfilment.
The commitment which mothers show towards the children
and the satisfaction they derive out of bringing them up have
left a great impact on my mind. I am really touched by the
unconditional love they are providing to the children and the
family. Mother Nirmala and Mother Shyama are the icons of
unconditional love whose contributions are there on Page no 2
& 3 respectively.
A great sense of belongingness is being shared in all the SOS
family homes. The children are having very strong ties and
long lasting relationships with their families even after they get
settled through their jobs and marriages.
During my recent unannounced visit to the SOS Children’s
Village Bangalore, I had the opportunity to learn about a Baby
Shower Ceremony which was organised in the presence of a
few close family members and guests. I also met a young SOS
boy Yellappa, who is presently working as a Senior Process
Executive at Strategic Outsourcing, a reputed BPO. As the
couple was expecting their first child, so as a part of the
customs & traditions of Hindu religion, Yellappa had brought
his wife Divya to his family for Baby Shower Ceremony
(Shrimantha). I felt happy to have been there to bless the
couple.
I could sense the strong bond shared by the whole family. On
this occasion Yellappa's SOS sister Sangeetha who also got
married recently and settled outside the village, was also
present to greet her sister-in-law. Mother Mangala was full of
smiles as usual but this time I could see the ecstasy.
There are many more examples of similar bonding and
belongingness in our 33 SOS Children’s Villages where our
children are living in a nurturing and balanced family
environment and doing well in their lives.
Our endeavour is to provide the needy children a loving home,
a mother, siblings and a community. This has been possible
only with the generous contribution of all the supporters and
friends like you. In many cases children are enjoying the bliss
of being with an extended family. Mehta family has set an
example of this kind, whose experience has been shared on
Page No 6.
I thank all of you once again for supporting us in our endeavour
to reach maximum number of children and changing their lives
and look forward to your continued support. May I also take the
liberty to request you to share about SOS Children’s Villages
of India with many of your friends to spread the good work!
charge
”
Warm Regards
S. Sandilya
President
35

2. Read how your invaluable
donations helped Mani in surviving
and coming out of it
It was spring and the harvest festival
Baisakhi was just round the corner. In
a small village in Punjab, Surinder was
working in the fields when he heard
someone say, “A baby girl has been
thrown out of train”. He saw people
running towards the railway track.
Surinder left his work and rushed. To
his utter shock he saw a one- year- old
baby girl with multiple injuries lying
unconscious. She had lost lots of
blood. Surinder was deeply moved to
see her condition. He put his finger in
front of her nose, “the child is
breathing; let's take her to the hospital.
Gyani get your tractor quickly,” he
said. In the meantime the villagers
informed the police and the cops also
reached the hospital.
The doctor attending to the child
informed that the injuries had affected
her brain and could impact her speech
and walk. She may need lot of support
to perform even the basic activities.
“She urgently needs a caring mother, a
loving home and a happy environment
“Found near railway tracks,
did 1 year old Mani survive?”
to survive,” he said.
“Who would take care of this child?”
mentioned one of the villagers. The
police officer had heard about SOS
Children's Village in Rajpura and said
that the child could be taken there.
After all the formalities the child was
welcomed in SOS Children's Village
Rajpura. The other kids in the village
were more than excited to have a new
sister. Ten-year-old Ashish was so
happy to have a new member in the
family that he named the child Mani.
“She is precious for all of us so we
have decided to name her Mani.”
Mani lived in Rajpura for three
months. Since Mani was a special
child and needed regular medical
attention it was decided to shift her to
SOS Children's Village Khajuri Kalan.
The Village has special facilities to
support children with special needs.
On a Sunday morning educational
co-worker Jyoti along with the village
in-charge from Khajuri Kalan reached
Rajpura. It was not easy for SOS
mother Kuldeep to send Mani. She
packed her baby bag and kept all the
toys that surrounded Mani's bed. She
held Mani in her arms and kissed on
the forehead, “my baby, God bless
you and I wish you lead a normal life.”
With these words Kuldeep laid Mani
gently in Jyoti's lap.
At SOS Children's Village Khajuri
Kalan SOS mother Nirmala welcomed
Mani with open arms. Mani could not
walk and was unable to do basic things
like eating with her hands. She had no
speech and couldn't express herself.In
order to strengthen her muscles
Nirmala would give her a massage
every day. She would also take Mani to
physiotherapy centre on a regular
basis. With Nirmala's continuous
efforts Mani's condition improved. She
started moving her hands and legs.
Today, Mani is five years old and looks
healthy. She goes to the activity centre
holding her mother's finger. She looks
very happy when her mother Nirmala
comes to pick her up from the centre.
Her favourite activity is listening to
music and dancing. She enjoys
playing with blocks in the activity
centre.
During my last visit to SOS Children's
Village Khajuri Kalan I met Mani and
other children in her family who are
provided support. I am happy to report
that changes have come, not only has
Mani started walking but she also eats
food with her own hands.
Nirmala gets overwhelmed speaking
about Mani. “She cannot speak but
with her expressions Mani conveys
everything. I wish she becomes
independent in life.”
Mani's life was saved and she is in a
loving home. Your contributions help
my colleagues and me in giving love
and family to such children. Please
continue contributing and spread hope
in their lives.
Mani playing blocks in the Activity Centre
Mr. Rakesh Jinsi Secretary General, SOS Children's Villages of India
shares his experience of meeting with Mani and Mother Nirmala
“The sum is small but it makes me happy to
send you my annual donation”
I received two letters (right & below)
from a long-time SOS friend, 87 years
old Ms Rosette Mody. She is
bedridden and staying in an old age
home in Bengaluru. Despite her
personal difficulties she still donates. I
am yet to come across a more
touching experience. I felt this is
worthy of sharing with all SOS friends.
-Rakesh Jinsi
If you would also like to motivate your
organisation to help children, please send in
a short email to
akshay.singh@soscvindia.org
If you would also like to motivate your col-
leagues and friends to help children, please
send in a short email to
kanchan.sen@soscvindia.org
The people who visited SOS Children’s
Villages after my recommendation came back
with a changed heart. And, I am happy to
share that most of them decided to help the
children.
- Davneet is one of the donor care personnel who speaks to
friends like you everyday requesting your continued support.

3. Meet my extended family!
“Uncle this time you came after a long
time,” complained Upkaar while
swinging on the shoulders of Yogesh
Mehta. Upkaar was in a hurry to
update Yogesh about all the
happenings in the last three months.
“First we will celebrate your birthday
and then we sit together and listen to
all your stories,” said Yogesh to
Upkaar. Madhumita, wife of Yogesh
was busy playing with Aarti and other
children.
The Mehta couple visited SOS
Children's Village on the birthday of
Upkaar. They have been sponsoring
Upkaar along with Aarti for more than
10 years. Mehtas have a special
feeling for the kids and they are very
proud of their association with SOS
Children's Villages.
Yogesh Mehta is running his own
business and providing IT solution to
corporates and organisations. “We
used to pass by SOS Children's
Village in Faridabad while going for
our work. We had some idea that this
Madhumita and Yogesh Mehta are sponsors of two children at
SOS Children's Village Greenfields
place takes care of children in need.
Once we decided to visit the place
and met one of the SOS families. I
had never imagined such a beautiful
childcare concept. Children were so
happy and warm and living together
with their SOS mother. We
immediately made the first
contributions for the children,”
recalled Madhumita andYogesh.
Madhumita and Yogesh have tried to
understand the beautiful world of
Madhumita & Yogesh Mehta celebrating Upkaar's birthday
Sponsor a Child
Your sponsorship enables a child
to grow up in an SOS family and
receive the best possible education
and become a responsible adult.
Your support provides physical,
material and more importantly
emotional well being of a child.
Contact Ms Maalika Chadha.
SOS Children's Villages of India,
Plot No 4, Block C-1,
Nelson Mandela Marg.,
Vasant Kunj,
New Delhi- 110070
Tel : +91-11-43239200,
Fax : +91-11 43239292
Email: maalika.chadha@soscvindia.org
6
children and the bonding only got
strengthened over the years. “We
don't consider ourselves as sponsors
of the children but as a part of the SOS
family. This is our extended family. We
share sorrows, happiness and
participate in all the functions,” said
Madhumita sitting comfortably in the
living room of this SOS family home.
Madhumita & Yogesh with the SOS family
“Welcome home my child.”
These were the first few words uttered by mother Shyama when she received Aparna in her arms.
Please read how your contributions are helping Aparna to follow her dreams.
Aparna with her brothers and sisters
It was a summer evening. The children
at SOS Children's Village Bawana,
New Delhi were playing in the garden.
SOS mother Shyama was busy
preparing mango shake for them. This
was when she received a message
from Surender Giri, the village director
that a new child had arrived at the
village. “Would you like a new addition
to your family, Shyama?” asked
Surender of her. He handed over a
small baby wrapped in a yellow towel
to Shyama. The baby was cold and
pale. She was not even cleaned
properly after her birth. Shyama held
the baby carefully in her arms and felt
like a mother of a newborn. She took
the baby closer to her bosom and
whispered in her ears, “Welcome
home my child.”
The baby was hungry and crying.
Motherly instinct made Shyama rush
back home. The baby had to be fed
immediately. Once feeding was done
she cleaned the baby with coconut oil
and put a nice pink frock on her.
Meanwhile, news of the child's arrival
had spread. All the children in village
soon surrounded Shyama and the
baby. Everyone wanted to get a
glimpse of their little sister. After a few
weeks the naming ceremony was
held. The baby was named 'Aparna'.
Shyama would always keep Aparna
with her. She gave the child a regular
massage. In a matter of few days she
became healthy and everybody's
darling. Jyoti, an elder child in the
family, overnight became a doting
sister. “I can't see my younger sister
crying so whenever mama is busy in
household work I enjoy taking care,”
one could hear her say repeatedly to
visitors.
Supported by your generous
contributions,Aparna is growing up to
be a confident young girl. Like any
other child she is full of hope and
dreams. She has proved to be a very
sincere child. She starts her day quite
early, getting up at five in the morning.
She is taking coaching classes in
science. She likes having a sandwich
for breakfast. One can often see her
enjoying it in the school bus.
Aparna loves to sketch and practice
calligraphy. “Art is my soul and my
imagination finds creative expression
in my illustrations,” she says
enthusiastically. In the evening she
spends most of her free time creating
Illustrations instead of watching
television. Her diary is full of drawings
and stories. The favourite theme of
her illustrations is friendship. Most of
her friends turn to her for creative
ideas and request her to make their
projects. “My daughter is very
talented and she has won almost 80
certificates and trophies in various
competitions,” Shyama claims
proudly.
The young girl is good in academics as
well. She is in 10th standard and is
working hard for her board exams.
“Aparna is a loving and responsible
child. She loves her mother a lot and
does not eat food without her. She
helps her mother in household chores
and supports her younger brothers
and sisters in studies. Her brothers
and sisters lovingly call her Appu didi,”
says Niharika, an educational co-
worker who is full of praise forAparna.
An artist at heart Aparna wishes to
pursue a career in graphics, a dream
that needs your constant support and
encouragement.
Aparna with sister Jyoti 21 days old Aparna
3
Aparna's Illustrations

4. Satendra helping out his family in the fields
“To appear for board exams or not….”
This was the prime question in Satendra's mind when his father died. What did he do?
Satendra having a good time with his family
Satendra is a teenaged boy who lives
in Raipur, India. When his father died,
he realised that it was time for him to
act like a father to his family. Satendra
could see the struggle his mother was
going through in bringing up the family.
He was now a 15 year- old boy and felt
old enough to feel responsible. He
wanted to support his mother.
As a result, although a sincere
student, he decided to leave his
studies and earn money. But
Satendra's mother was a determined
lady. Although Satendra started
helping her to till the small piece of
land they owned, she fully understood
the urgent need for him to continue
education. The fact that she had to
drop out of school due to early
marriage further strengthened her
resolve.
She knew about the Family
Strengthening Programme (FSP) that
SOS Children's Villages of India had
been running in their Mana Basti
village and decided to seek help.
Sudipta, a co-worker from SOS
Children's Villages counselled
Satendra directly. “During our
discussion I realised that only his
mother could convince him not to
leave his studies. I spoke to her and
she was fully convinced” says Sudipta.
In turn, she convinced Satendra that
his getting educated only could bring
happiness back to the family. She
said, “Never leave your studies; do
your best my son.” This motivated
Satendra and he agreed to prepare
for his examination with full
enthusiasm. SOS Children's Villages
of India with support from friends like
you also pitched in to provide all the
necessary help in terms of study
materials, tuition fees.
Today, apart from studying he also
shares household responsibilities
with his mother. Unfortunately, unlike
other children he has no time to play.
He wakes up early in the morning,
goes to the farm, plucks the
vegetables and makes them ready for
sale in market, which is the only
source of income for the family. After
that he returns home and gets ready
for the tuition classes. This follows his
visit to the school. Once back home
from school he goes to the farm for
watering the vegetables. After that
he somehow finds time for homework
and helping his sisters in their
studies.
He says, “Evenings are the happiest
moment for us, as all the members of
the family are together in a room and
my mother also participates. My
sisters share everything that has
happened in their school. This is the
time when all the family members
smile together.”
Now, Satendra is waiting for the result
of his exams which had finished at the
end of March. “For the whole family the
happiest moment in their lives was
when I wrote the first paper of the
examination”, he remembers. “There
were tears in my mother's eyes. It was
her dream that I should get education.
She remained on fasting as part of her
offering to God with a belief that it
would bring blessings to her son and
he would do well in life.This has further
reinforced my determination to do well
in life.”
Satendra can see happiness in his
mother's eyes when they spend time
together, despite everyday hard work
in the field.
As an SOS friend, your generous
contribution helps in changing lives of
children like Satendra. Please
continue supporting us.
“I'm not your auntie, son,
I'm your mother!”
It was in the year 1996 that I came
home to SOS Children's Village
Faridabad. When I stepped inside the
house which is my home now, a kind
lady greeted me. I said "Namaste
Auntie ji" and her instant polite reply
was “I'm not your auntie, son, I'm your
mother!” I was touched by that single
sentence.
I wondered, if a Punjabi boy would
survive with a mother from Assam and
the children from various regions.
Initially there were communication
barriers but mother's love… which
does not need any language,
resolved everything. I had been a
mischievous child and used to make
all kinds of excuses for school. But my
mother was very understanding and
tactful. She used to convince me
through various methods so I could
go to school. With proper discipline
and motivation from my mother and
teachers like Mrs. Nirja Kaul I
excelled at academics and other
activities.
When I look back, I distinctly
remember experiencing happiness,
sadness, indecisiveness and tears
but never without the presence of my
mother by my side. It is because of
her upbringing that I have grown up
as a confident youth.
I fondly remember the time I spent in
SOS Children's Village playing cricket
and my all-time favourite football. I
was the captain of my school. I feel
that all my skills of negotiation and
strategy making have originated from
the football field. It was a battlefield for
all the children. All our fights,
struggles, conflicts and decisions
originated and resolved there. Even
today when I stand there I am
surrounded by memories of my
childhood and never felt alone.
I was the first child from SOS
Children's Village Faridabad to get the
Dewan Foundation Scholarship. Now
I'm 20 years old and have completed
my Bachelor's degree in Geography
(Hons.) from Delhi University. I cleared
st
the entrance examination with 1
position and got admission to
"Diploma in Geospatial Technology". I
still remember when I opted for
Humanities stream, I was being
advised by all my well-wishers to opt
for either Science or Commerce but I
loved Geography and was determined
to study and I am very happy studying
GeospatialTechnology.
At Present I am working as an Intern
with SGS Infotech Gurgaon and I am
living an independent life. I hope soon I
will achieve my goal in the chosen
field.
I owe a significant part of my growing
up to my mother, brothers and sisters,
friends and the entire SOS family. This
family is my world and means
everything to me.
Rohit shares his experience of growing up in SOS Children's Village Faridabad
Contributions from donors
like you helped Rohit in
achieving his dream.
5
Initially there were communication
barriers, but mother's love… which
does not need any language,
resolved everything
Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi congratulating Rohit
Rohit with his mother Rekha Devi
and his siblings

5. Satendra helping out his family in the fields
“To appear for board exams or not….”
This was the prime question in Satendra's mind when his father died. What did he do?
Satendra having a good time with his family
Satendra is a teenaged boy who lives
in Raipur, India. When his father died,
he realised that it was time for him to
act like a father to his family. Satendra
could see the struggle his mother was
going through in bringing up the family.
He was now a 15 year- old boy and felt
old enough to feel responsible. He
wanted to support his mother.
As a result, although a sincere
student, he decided to leave his
studies and earn money. But
Satendra's mother was a determined
lady. Although Satendra started
helping her to till the small piece of
land they owned, she fully understood
the urgent need for him to continue
education. The fact that she had to
drop out of school due to early
marriage further strengthened her
resolve.
She knew about the Family
Strengthening Programme (FSP) that
SOS Children's Villages of India had
been running in their Mana Basti
village and decided to seek help.
Sudipta, a co-worker from SOS
Children's Villages counselled
Satendra directly. “During our
discussion I realised that only his
mother could convince him not to
leave his studies. I spoke to her and
she was fully convinced” says Sudipta.
In turn, she convinced Satendra that
his getting educated only could bring
happiness back to the family. She
said, “Never leave your studies; do
your best my son.” This motivated
Satendra and he agreed to prepare
for his examination with full
enthusiasm. SOS Children's Villages
of India with support from friends like
you also pitched in to provide all the
necessary help in terms of study
materials, tuition fees.
Today, apart from studying he also
shares household responsibilities
with his mother. Unfortunately, unlike
other children he has no time to play.
He wakes up early in the morning,
goes to the farm, plucks the
vegetables and makes them ready for
sale in market, which is the only
source of income for the family. After
that he returns home and gets ready
for the tuition classes. This follows his
visit to the school. Once back home
from school he goes to the farm for
watering the vegetables. After that
he somehow finds time for homework
and helping his sisters in their
studies.
He says, “Evenings are the happiest
moment for us, as all the members of
the family are together in a room and
my mother also participates. My
sisters share everything that has
happened in their school. This is the
time when all the family members
smile together.”
Now, Satendra is waiting for the result
of his exams which had finished at the
end of March. “For the whole family the
happiest moment in their lives was
when I wrote the first paper of the
examination”, he remembers. “There
were tears in my mother's eyes. It was
her dream that I should get education.
She remained on fasting as part of her
offering to God with a belief that it
would bring blessings to her son and
he would do well in life.This has further
reinforced my determination to do well
in life.”
Satendra can see happiness in his
mother's eyes when they spend time
together, despite everyday hard work
in the field.
As an SOS friend, your generous
contribution helps in changing lives of
children like Satendra. Please
continue supporting us.
“I'm not your auntie, son,
I'm your mother!”
It was in the year 1996 that I came
home to SOS Children's Village
Faridabad. When I stepped inside the
house which is my home now, a kind
lady greeted me. I said "Namaste
Auntie ji" and her instant polite reply
was “I'm not your auntie, son, I'm your
mother!” I was touched by that single
sentence.
I wondered, if a Punjabi boy would
survive with a mother from Assam and
the children from various regions.
Initially there were communication
barriers but mother's love… which
does not need any language,
resolved everything. I had been a
mischievous child and used to make
all kinds of excuses for school. But my
mother was very understanding and
tactful. She used to convince me
through various methods so I could
go to school. With proper discipline
and motivation from my mother and
teachers like Mrs. Nirja Kaul I
excelled at academics and other
activities.
When I look back, I distinctly
remember experiencing happiness,
sadness, indecisiveness and tears
but never without the presence of my
mother by my side. It is because of
her upbringing that I have grown up
as a confident youth.
I fondly remember the time I spent in
SOS Children's Village playing cricket
and my all-time favourite football. I
was the captain of my school. I feel
that all my skills of negotiation and
strategy making have originated from
the football field. It was a battlefield for
all the children. All our fights,
struggles, conflicts and decisions
originated and resolved there. Even
today when I stand there I am
surrounded by memories of my
childhood and never felt alone.
I was the first child from SOS
Children's Village Faridabad to get the
Dewan Foundation Scholarship. Now
I'm 20 years old and have completed
my Bachelor's degree in Geography
(Hons.) from Delhi University. I cleared
st
the entrance examination with 1
position and got admission to
"Diploma in Geospatial Technology". I
still remember when I opted for
Humanities stream, I was being
advised by all my well-wishers to opt
for either Science or Commerce but I
loved Geography and was determined
to study and I am very happy studying
GeospatialTechnology.
At Present I am working as an Intern
with SGS Infotech Gurgaon and I am
living an independent life. I hope soon I
will achieve my goal in the chosen
field.
I owe a significant part of my growing
up to my mother, brothers and sisters,
friends and the entire SOS family. This
family is my world and means
everything to me.
Rohit shares his experience of growing up in SOS Children's Village Faridabad
Contributions from donors
like you helped Rohit in
achieving his dream.
5
Initially there were communication
barriers, but mother's love… which
does not need any language,
resolved everything
Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi congratulating Rohit
Rohit with his mother Rekha Devi
and his siblings

6. Meet my extended family!
“Uncle this time you came after a long
time,” complained Upkaar while
swinging on the shoulders of Yogesh
Mehta. Upkaar was in a hurry to
update Yogesh about all the
happenings in the last three months.
“First we will celebrate your birthday
and then we sit together and listen to
all your stories,” said Yogesh to
Upkaar. Madhumita, wife of Yogesh
was busy playing with Aarti and other
children.
The Mehta couple visited SOS
Children's Village on the birthday of
Upkaar. They have been sponsoring
Upkaar along with Aarti for more than
10 years. Mehtas have a special
feeling for the kids and they are very
proud of their association with SOS
Children's Villages.
Yogesh Mehta is running his own
business and providing IT solution to
corporates and organisations. “We
used to pass by SOS Children's
Village in Faridabad while going for
our work. We had some idea that this
Madhumita and Yogesh Mehta are sponsors of two children at
SOS Children's Village Greenfields
place takes care of children in need.
Once we decided to visit the place
and met one of the SOS families. I
had never imagined such a beautiful
childcare concept. Children were so
happy and warm and living together
with their SOS mother. We
immediately made the first
contributions for the children,”
recalled Madhumita andYogesh.
Madhumita and Yogesh have tried to
understand the beautiful world of
Madhumita & Yogesh Mehta celebrating Upkaar's birthday
Sponsor a Child
Your sponsorship enables a child
to grow up in an SOS family and
receive the best possible education
and become a responsible adult.
Your support provides physical,
material and more importantly
emotional well being of a child.
Contact Ms Maalika Chadha.
SOS Children's Villages of India,
Plot No 4, Block C-1,
Nelson Mandela Marg.,
Vasant Kunj,
New Delhi- 110070
Tel : +91-11-43239200,
Fax : +91-11 43239292
Email: maalika.chadha@soscvindia.org
6
children and the bonding only got
strengthened over the years. “We
don't consider ourselves as sponsors
of the children but as a part of the SOS
family. This is our extended family. We
share sorrows, happiness and
participate in all the functions,” said
Madhumita sitting comfortably in the
living room of this SOS family home.
Madhumita & Yogesh with the SOS family
“Welcome home my child.”
These were the first few words uttered by mother Shyama when she received Aparna in her arms.
Please read how your contributions are helping Aparna to follow her dreams.
Aparna with her brothers and sisters
It was a summer evening. The children
at SOS Children's Village Bawana,
New Delhi were playing in the garden.
SOS mother Shyama was busy
preparing mango shake for them. This
was when she received a message
from Surender Giri, the village director
that a new child had arrived at the
village. “Would you like a new addition
to your family, Shyama?” asked
Surender of her. He handed over a
small baby wrapped in a yellow towel
to Shyama. The baby was cold and
pale. She was not even cleaned
properly after her birth. Shyama held
the baby carefully in her arms and felt
like a mother of a newborn. She took
the baby closer to her bosom and
whispered in her ears, “Welcome
home my child.”
The baby was hungry and crying.
Motherly instinct made Shyama rush
back home. The baby had to be fed
immediately. Once feeding was done
she cleaned the baby with coconut oil
and put a nice pink frock on her.
Meanwhile, news of the child's arrival
had spread. All the children in village
soon surrounded Shyama and the
baby. Everyone wanted to get a
glimpse of their little sister. After a few
weeks the naming ceremony was
held. The baby was named 'Aparna'.
Shyama would always keep Aparna
with her. She gave the child a regular
massage. In a matter of few days she
became healthy and everybody's
darling. Jyoti, an elder child in the
family, overnight became a doting
sister. “I can't see my younger sister
crying so whenever mama is busy in
household work I enjoy taking care,”
one could hear her say repeatedly to
visitors.
Supported by your generous
contributions,Aparna is growing up to
be a confident young girl. Like any
other child she is full of hope and
dreams. She has proved to be a very
sincere child. She starts her day quite
early, getting up at five in the morning.
She is taking coaching classes in
science. She likes having a sandwich
for breakfast. One can often see her
enjoying it in the school bus.
Aparna loves to sketch and practice
calligraphy. “Art is my soul and my
imagination finds creative expression
in my illustrations,” she says
enthusiastically. In the evening she
spends most of her free time creating
Illustrations instead of watching
television. Her diary is full of drawings
and stories. The favourite theme of
her illustrations is friendship. Most of
her friends turn to her for creative
ideas and request her to make their
projects. “My daughter is very
talented and she has won almost 80
certificates and trophies in various
competitions,” Shyama claims
proudly.
The young girl is good in academics as
well. She is in 10th standard and is
working hard for her board exams.
“Aparna is a loving and responsible
child. She loves her mother a lot and
does not eat food without her. She
helps her mother in household chores
and supports her younger brothers
and sisters in studies. Her brothers
and sisters lovingly call her Appu didi,”
says Niharika, an educational co-
worker who is full of praise forAparna.
An artist at heart Aparna wishes to
pursue a career in graphics, a dream
that needs your constant support and
encouragement.
Aparna with sister Jyoti 21 days old Aparna
3
Aparna's Illustrations

7. Read how your invaluable
donations helped Mani in surviving
and coming out of it
It was spring and the harvest festival
Baisakhi was just round the corner. In
a small village in Punjab, Surinder was
working in the fields when he heard
someone say, “A baby girl has been
thrown out of train”. He saw people
running towards the railway track.
Surinder left his work and rushed. To
his utter shock he saw a one- year- old
baby girl with multiple injuries lying
unconscious. She had lost lots of
blood. Surinder was deeply moved to
see her condition. He put his finger in
front of her nose, “the child is
breathing; let's take her to the hospital.
Gyani get your tractor quickly,” he
said. In the meantime the villagers
informed the police and the cops also
reached the hospital.
The doctor attending to the child
informed that the injuries had affected
her brain and could impact her speech
and walk. She may need lot of support
to perform even the basic activities.
“She urgently needs a caring mother, a
loving home and a happy environment
“Found near railway tracks,
did 1 year old Mani survive?”
to survive,” he said.
“Who would take care of this child?”
mentioned one of the villagers. The
police officer had heard about SOS
Children's Village in Rajpura and said
that the child could be taken there.
After all the formalities the child was
welcomed in SOS Children's Village
Rajpura. The other kids in the village
were more than excited to have a new
sister. Ten-year-old Ashish was so
happy to have a new member in the
family that he named the child Mani.
“She is precious for all of us so we
have decided to name her Mani.”
Mani lived in Rajpura for three
months. Since Mani was a special
child and needed regular medical
attention it was decided to shift her to
SOS Children's Village Khajuri Kalan.
The Village has special facilities to
support children with special needs.
On a Sunday morning educational
co-worker Jyoti along with the village
in-charge from Khajuri Kalan reached
Rajpura. It was not easy for SOS
mother Kuldeep to send Mani. She
packed her baby bag and kept all the
toys that surrounded Mani's bed. She
held Mani in her arms and kissed on
the forehead, “my baby, God bless
you and I wish you lead a normal life.”
With these words Kuldeep laid Mani
gently in Jyoti's lap.
At SOS Children's Village Khajuri
Kalan SOS mother Nirmala welcomed
Mani with open arms. Mani could not
walk and was unable to do basic things
like eating with her hands. She had no
speech and couldn't express herself.In
order to strengthen her muscles
Nirmala would give her a massage
every day. She would also take Mani to
physiotherapy centre on a regular
basis. With Nirmala's continuous
efforts Mani's condition improved. She
started moving her hands and legs.
Today, Mani is five years old and looks
healthy. She goes to the activity centre
holding her mother's finger. She looks
very happy when her mother Nirmala
comes to pick her up from the centre.
Her favourite activity is listening to
music and dancing. She enjoys
playing with blocks in the activity
centre.
During my last visit to SOS Children's
Village Khajuri Kalan I met Mani and
other children in her family who are
provided support. I am happy to report
that changes have come, not only has
Mani started walking but she also eats
food with her own hands.
Nirmala gets overwhelmed speaking
about Mani. “She cannot speak but
with her expressions Mani conveys
everything. I wish she becomes
independent in life.”
Mani's life was saved and she is in a
loving home. Your contributions help
my colleagues and me in giving love
and family to such children. Please
continue contributing and spread hope
in their lives.
Mani playing blocks in the Activity Centre
Mr. Rakesh Jinsi Secretary General, SOS Children's Villages of India
shares his experience of meeting with Mani and Mother Nirmala
“The sum is small but it makes me happy to
send you my annual donation”
I received two letters (right & below)
from a long-time SOS friend, 87 years
old Ms Rosette Mody. She is
bedridden and staying in an old age
home in Bengaluru. Despite her
personal difficulties she still donates. I
am yet to come across a more
touching experience. I felt this is
worthy of sharing with all SOS friends.
-Rakesh Jinsi
If you would also like to motivate your
organisation to help children, please send in
a short email to
akshay.singh@soscvindia.org
If you would also like to motivate your col-
leagues and friends to help children, please
send in a short email to
kanchan.sen@soscvindia.org
The people who visited SOS Children’s
Villages after my recommendation came back
with a changed heart. And, I am happy to
share that most of them decided to help the
children.
- Davneet is one of the donor care personnel who speaks to
friends like you everyday requesting your continued support.

8. Vol.XXXXIII,No1.April-May2011
How your contributions enable children to live in a loving family environment and achieve their potential
Dear Friends
I am touched by the feelings of Ms
Rosette Mody whose precious letter is
appearing on Page No 7 of this
messenger. Words are not adequate to
acknowledge our thanks for her
contribution towards this great cause.
Her concern is overflowing. This unique
kind of relationship and gestures make
SOS Children’s Villages feel proud of the endeavours our
friends are making for the needy children. I profusely thank her
and many more of you who are participating in our endeavour
to provide a loving home for every needy child. I also would like
to thank those of you in anticipation who would become our
friends in the future to be a part of our dream and the dreams of
the children we bring up.
Since my association with SOS Children’s Villages I have
been travelling to our Villages and family homes. The
interaction with mothers, grandmothers, children and some of
the settled children has given me a great sense of fulfilment.
The commitment which mothers show towards the children
and the satisfaction they derive out of bringing them up have
left a great impact on my mind. I am really touched by the
unconditional love they are providing to the children and the
family. Mother Nirmala and Mother Shyama are the icons of
unconditional love whose contributions are there on Page no 2
& 3 respectively.
A great sense of belongingness is being shared in all the SOS
family homes. The children are having very strong ties and
long lasting relationships with their families even after they get
settled through their jobs and marriages.
During my recent unannounced visit to the SOS Children’s
Village Bangalore, I had the opportunity to learn about a Baby
Shower Ceremony which was organised in the presence of a
few close family members and guests. I also met a young SOS
boy Yellappa, who is presently working as a Senior Process
Executive at Strategic Outsourcing, a reputed BPO. As the
couple was expecting their first child, so as a part of the
customs & traditions of Hindu religion, Yellappa had brought
his wife Divya to his family for Baby Shower Ceremony
(Shrimantha). I felt happy to have been there to bless the
couple.
I could sense the strong bond shared by the whole family. On
this occasion Yellappa's SOS sister Sangeetha who also got
married recently and settled outside the village, was also
present to greet her sister-in-law. Mother Mangala was full of
smiles as usual but this time I could see the ecstasy.
There are many more examples of similar bonding and
belongingness in our 33 SOS Children’s Villages where our
children are living in a nurturing and balanced family
environment and doing well in their lives.
Our endeavour is to provide the needy children a loving home,
a mother, siblings and a community. This has been possible
only with the generous contribution of all the supporters and
friends like you. In many cases children are enjoying the bliss
of being with an extended family. Mehta family has set an
example of this kind, whose experience has been shared on
Page No 6.
I thank all of you once again for supporting us in our endeavour
to reach maximum number of children and changing their lives
and look forward to your continued support. May I also take the
liberty to request you to share about SOS Children’s Villages
of India with many of your friends to spread the good work!
charge
”
Warm Regards
S. Sandilya
President
35