Since its founding in 2019, the Balgovind Road Nadawa Satsang Ramayan Mandali has been dedicated to charitable endeavors, especially during difficult times.
Following the Shri Krishna Janmashtami celebrations, the mandali acted on a request from a former teacher at St Minas Children’s Home in Votualevu, Nadi, focusing support on the 23 children residing there.
They contributed $200 and approximately $1,500 worth of groceries to help these children, who are between the ages of 2 and 17.
Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam, the secretary of the mandali, emphasized that they operate under a strict non-discrimination policy, ensuring that assistance is provided regardless of gender, ethnicity, or color.
“We plan to return in January next year to donate stationery and backpacks to the 23 kids who are attending school,” Mr. Lingam stated.
He noted that most of the funding came from friends and family members on Balgovind Road and abroad.
“Family members living overseas felt a responsibility to assist their homeland. The support from our donors has been remarkable,” he added.
The mandali has also helped families as far north as providing food packs and water bottles during natural disasters.
“After Ram Navami, our mandali members donated $200 to the Fiji Cancer Society and WOWS Kids Fiji. This is an annual event,” he mentioned.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the mandali played a vital role in supporting families across Fiji, including those in remote northern areas.