Concert by members of Baba Amte's Anandwan project in Goa

Panaji, Feb 19 (UNI) ''Swaranandwan'', a group of challenged children and adults who are part of noted social activist late Baba Amte's Anandwan project, will perform at a fund-raiser concert on February 20 at the Kala Academy Auditorium in the city.

All proceeds raised during the concert would be donated to the Maharogi Sewa Samati, founded by late Baba Amte. The concert is being put together by ''Pratidhwani'', a committee of Goan citizens who have come together on a common platform to promote social causes and were committed to impacting people's lives in a positive manner.

''Swaranandwan'' would perform a three hour concert comprising popular songs in Hindi, Marathi, folk dances and mimicry. The orchestra is a mix of visually and physically challenged individuals and teachers. The troupe had performed across the country and had struck a cord in the hearts of audiences all over.

Late Baba Amte, a highly respected social activist, was the founder of several ashrams and communities for the service of leprosy patients and other marginalised people shunned by society.

Anandwan, which literally means ''Forest of Joy'', is located in the remote and economically less privileged district of Chandrapur, Maharashtra and was his home till he passed away a few days ago.

Baba Amte dedicated his life to various social causes, notably emancipation of leprosy patients, wildlife preservation, and his involvement in the Narmada Bachao Andolan. He had explicitly expressed a wish that ''Swaranandwan'' be able to perform in Goa.

The group consists of 125 disabled children and young adults, who are artistic and musically talented.

UNI BM NM JT HS1350