Published on: September 1, 2026

Today was a beautiful Onam day, truly a day we had been waiting for with all our hearts. Overcoming their physical pain and countless obstacles, the children and families of our Children’s Palliative Care (Pallium India) gathered from near and far for this reunion. Though everyone arrived holding memories of the last Onam close to their hearts, today turned out to be even more special.

With such vibrant energy, it wasn’t just the children, the mothers, too, took to the stage. Having spent so many sleepless nights with only heavy sighs for company, the cultural programs they chose – just to bring a moment of joy to their hearts and escape their sorrows – were deeply moving. Everyone enjoyed themselves to the fullest.

When Dr. Sangeetha Ma’am called me up to the stage, I was completely caught off guard, and honestly, I still feel that warm sense of wonder! Though it was my second time sharing the stage in that auditorium (the first was when my children’s Headmaster honoured me there), it was my very first time lighting the ceremonial lamp for a program. I tried to talk to as many families as I could. After all, isn’t that why we are all here – to share a word and, more importantly, to listen to what they have to say? The coordination was noticeably better than previous events, making the whole program shine even brighter. Knowing that Ancy, our social worker, is leaving left a small ache in our hearts. Dr. Susan was on her feet right from the morning, keeping everything running smoothly. Everyone stood together as one. Prakashini Chechi, our volunteer, joined in on every single dance and performed so wonderfully. The sheer enthusiasm everyone showed to learn and perform together was something else entirely, a special applause for Chechi!

The little ones cooperated so well, with hardly any stubbornness or tears. The auditorium was overflowing with love, packed with children, families, volunteers, doctors, and staff.

Then, Dr. Rajagopal Sir stopped by, even if just for a fleeting moment. Like a double blessing, an instant wave of joy swept through the crowd. Do you know what true compassion is? It is having a heart wide open to another human being. Pallium India is the living embodiment of that vast, embracing warmth that Doctor felt in his heart.

What else but pure goodness of heart could explain how the Vallakkadavu (VMJ) Convention Center committee members and our dear Noorjahan Teacher consistently grant us permission and open their doors, not just for our kids’ Onam celebration, but for various functions Pallium calls for? Saifudeen Haji Sir was there with us today. Because of certain circumstances, Noorjahan Teacher couldn’t make it, which was a genuine regret for both me and team Ritu. Beyond being my children’s teacher, we share a bond of sisterly love. Teacher (Ms. Noorjahan Hakkim), even though you couldn’t be here today, thank you so much for granting such a wonderful space for Ritu…

After songs, traditional music, Maveli, pookalam, and dances, followed by a lavish Onam feast, the evening came alive with a fashion show, pottu thodal, uriyadi, and a lively tug-of-war. Overflowing with love and shared happiness, the families finally set off for home with their children, leaving us with a warm promise: “We’ll definitely come back, make sure you invite us again!”

By the time I reached home, I felt as though no matter how much I shared, I could never finish talking about the day. It feels like my writing had fallen silent for quite some time; let me hold onto this feeling and reclaim my voice. So, as promised, see you again. Take care until then!

Onam was an absolute hit for Team Ritu!

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