(ANS – Hyderabad) – Don Bosco Nava Jeevan (DBNJ) MELA 2014 was celebrated on 23 November at Don Bosco Navajeevan Home, Bhoiguda, Hyderabad. Many guests, donors and benefactors of Don Bosco Navajeevan family joined in commemorating three major events of this year, namely the bicentenary of the Birth of Don Bosco, Crystal Anniversary of the Don Bosco Navajeevan Homes in Hyderabad and awareness on the YaR theme for 2014: “I have a Right to be Heard”.

All the children from DBNJ home Nampally and Don Bosco Rehabilitation Centre Ramanthapur took part in the Mela along with DBNJ Past Pupils and people of Bhoiguda. About 500 people participated in the programme which took place at the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation ground.

In his address, Fr Bellamkonda Sudhakar, Director of Don Bosco Navajeevan homes in the Twin Cities spoke about the three major events of the year, stressing the YaR theme for 2014: “I have a Right to be Heard”. He called on people present to spend time with children especially listening to what they want to say. This can make a vast difference in the lives of the children and society at large. He made a request asking all to spend at least five minutes exclusively for each child. He pointed out that “160 years ago Don Bosco was able to win over children and youngsters precisely because he listened to them and guided them in their lives.”

Elvis Stevenson, representing the Anglo-Indian Community of Telangana State, congratulated the Salesians on their valuable service on behalf of children, and promised that to support and recommend to the government all that is required for the children. “These children were like shapeless stones; but today either they are getting shaped or some of them have become beautifully carved statues with the help of the facilities and opportunities provided,” said the Honourable MLA.

The guest of honor, Mrs Savitri Mahesh, Corporator of New Bhoiguda, assured her total support for the children. The children and staff feted the guests and local benefactors, while the Director presented them with mementos.

Published 26/11/2014