"The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." ~ Mahatma Gandhi
Such inspiring words of the Father of our glorious Nation are, even today, the driving force behind our quest to a shining India, and the reason why our country is respected as a seat of compassion, peace and selfless service. And I’m proud to be a part of Switch India, which embodies the same values through their excellent health camps, one of which I was privileged to attend.
The camp was held at Vanichapada at Mumbai’s famous Aarey Colony, on a sunny Saturday, on the 10th of August, 2019. Vanichapada is an extremely secluded slum area in a remote corner of the Maximum City. So much so, that electricity started being provided to them only after 2015! There is no mode of transport after a certain point and we had to walk to get there
The camp was in collaboration with the Robin Hood Army. They were to distribute rations among the adults while 8 of us volunteers from Switch India were to check their children. A total of 45 children were screened. Cases requiring attention/medical intervention were referred to the on-site paediatrician and then to the nearby hospital.
We got to see a totally different part of Mumbai...
It really is amazing how different extremes can find a way to survive in this city. But at the same time, it is heartbreaking to see how they live... they have no money, no food, no access to basic health and sanitation facilities and are uneducated and addicted to harmful substances, while we come from privileged backgrounds— educated, financially stable and sensible.
There is no better way than camps like these to connect us to reality. We all must do our bit, for there is absolutely no excuse to derelict our duty to humans and in process, our duty to God and this earth. We must do more of these camps, at least as a thank you to God for ensuring we don’t have to go through what those innocent people of Vanichapada have to go through each day.
Which is why, I am extremely fortunate to have worked with my fellow Switch India volunteers and the passionate volunteers of Robin Hood Army, all of whom helped me find a direction to channelise my passion for service.
Thank you so much, Switch India! You bring smiles to countless people each camp—one of the best gifts for them and us. Keep up the great work!
