My Birthday/ Children's Day!!!

This Thursday I celebrated my birthday while the rest of India celebrated someone elses. I share my birthday with non other than India's first President, Jawaharlal Nehru. If that wasn't enough cause for celebration, it was also children's day as Nehru did a lot for children during his life.

The whole school was buzzing all week in anticipation of Thursday. For me, I was excited and curious to what my birthday would involve.

Children's Day 

It was an early start as Anna and I were off with some upper class pupils, Dr Goud and Jyothi Madam to visit the Governor of Andhra Pradesh. Children from schools all over Hyderabad were invited. His house was lovely, we were given snacks and Frooti, great hospitality from the staff. We guided the kids up to meet him and his wife who were very friendly. Jyothi Madam mentioned my birthday and they all wished me a good one!

How many people can we fit into one car?

On our return everyone was getting ready for the day's events. The courtyard had been transformed with huge shades and seats. 

The program began with speeches about Children's Day and Nehru. There is clearly a lot of respect for him and the children are aware that they have an important role to play in the future. 

Nehru visited in person 

Nehru 

Then came the dancing.  

Traditional Dance group from Devnar 

Love the costumes! 

Traditional Dancers from Sai Junior College

Hugely entertaining modern dancing Bollywood/Tollywood medley

Fancy Dress came next!
Some were very imaginative. Each child made a small speech about what they were dressed up as.

Ghandi, a Police Officer and traditional woman

Cutest Capsicum ever!

Harika, baby Doll 

Our Guest British High Commissioner and  Jyothi Madam with the kids 

After there was speeches from Dr Goud, Lily Madam (the Principal) and our guests. We got to meet the British High Commissioner for Hyderabad. Was an honor to be up on stage with the guests.

Birthday Celebrations 

Celebrated by first birthday away from home.

All day staff and pupils shook my hands saying "Many happy returns of the day". All this well wishing worked as I had an amazing and very memorable birthday.

In India a few things are different when celebrating birthdays. I was expected to have "Party", which doesn't mean Party as we're used to in the UK. Instead you give out sweets and cake to people.

I bought 3kg of cake for 540 rupees! Had to make sure I had enough for all the staff. Bought over 500 sweets for the kids.

Had fun opening my parcels from home and reading my lovely birthday cards. Thanks to everyone who sent them!

Cutting the cake in the staff room to the chorus of "Happy Birthday" 

Part of the tradition is to have cake shoved in your mouth! 

Printing Room and book makers

Giving out sweets at Dinner

Birthday dinner 

Overall had a great day!