10/03/2026
Do you know that in many villages of India, Akshat : turmeric-coloured rice is traditionally given when inviting someone to an auspicious event?
It is a beautiful tradition, and today we had the chance to relive it.
Anganwadi teachers and ECE educators went into the community to invite parents and community members for आओ बचपन मनाएं festival.
They carried with them the sacred Akshat - turmeric mixed with rice and offered it as a respectful invitation.
This tradition holds deep cultural significance and has been followed for generations.
It was heartwarming to see how warmly the parents and community members welcomed this initiative.
Community members opened their homes and hearts offering chairs, mats, tables and even fans to support the festival.
More than support, it showed a strong sense of ownership from the community.
आओ बचपन मनाएं festival is special because it is not just about celebrating childhood. It is also about celebrating communities, Anganwadi teachers, ECE educators, and the collective power of people coming together to make childhood happier and healthier.
The festival will bring together community members, parents, teachers, government officials and other stakeholders - all those who play an important role in shaping a child’s early years.
It will be a space for celebration, dialogue and shared learning about how we can make Bachpan more joyful for every child.
We hope this festival becomes a new beginning for deeper community involvement with Anganwadis and primary schools.
We are very grateful to , an initiative by the EkStep Foundation, for being a wonderful partner in this journey.
We look forward to welcoming many of you on 14th March - come and celebrate Bachpan with us, and maybe even relive a little of your own childhood.