A visit to Amrita Niketan, the orphanage and boarding school for disadvantaged children at Parippally, is often a highlight for visitors to the Amritapuri ashram. The recent visit of 45 international visitors was no exception. The children gave the visitors their usual warm-hearted welcome. The older students were having exams, but the younger students were available to share their songs and dances with the visitors.

Everyone enjoyed the Adivasi (tribal) dances. These are the circle dances the children learn in their villages. They sing in call and response as they dance. Often the leader will create new lyrics on the spot. The children invited the visitors to join in and many of the group took them up on their offer. Some of the group caught on quickly, so the children began dancing in more complicated patterns until they all collapsed in laughter and exhaustion!

Soon it was lunchtime and the group was treated to a delicious meal cooked by the Amma’s bramacharinis who are serving the orphanage children. Many said it was the best meal they had eaten during their stay at the ashram.

After lunch the group had a little time to play with the children. A young boy with his pet baby chipmunk was a big hit and made a great photo opportunity. All too soon it was time to return to the ashram. The children and visitors walked hand in hand to the bus and a few tears were shed. I thought how quickly friends are made when hearts are open. The pure hearts of these children can’t help but touch all who meet them.

Rita S.