FTS Women's Committee Organises Garba Mahotsav In Mumbai To Support Tribal Children's Education

On October 15, the Mumbai Women's Committee of Friends of Tribal Society (FTS) hosted a Garba Mahotsav to raise funds and promote awareness for educational and developmental programs aimed at children in rural and tribal regions. The event drew enthusiastic participation from approximately 175 women, who celebrated the occasion with traditional Garba performances.

The ceremony kicked off with prayers to Goddess Amba, followed by an aarti and distribution of prasad. Organizers paid tribute to Maa, whose birthday coincided with October 14, and offered prayers for her health and longevity. After welcoming attendees and briefing them on FTS's activities, the focus shifted to the organization's flagship initiative, Ekal Abhiyan.

FTS is dedicated to enhancing education, healthcare, social awareness, and self-reliance among marginalized rural and tribal communities through Ekal Abhiyan. Founded in Jharkhand in 1989 with just 60 Ekal schools, the program has since expanded to cover around one lakh villages across India. During the awareness session, organizers highlighted the five core aspects of the Panchmukhi Shiksha program: primary education via Ekal schools, healthcare and hygiene education, village development, social awareness, and value-based education.

FTS currently operates 35 chapters and has about 30 women's committees actively engaged in promoting its initiatives and fundraising for social welfare programs. To cap off the day's festivities, women took part in vibrant Garba performances to traditional music, adding a festive atmosphere to the event. Notably, Ritu, recently crowned as the Mumbai Garba Queen, served as a judge for the performances.

Prizes were awarded to participants in various categories for their outstanding acts. Organizers reported that the Garba Mahotsav successfully achieved its goals of raising awareness about Ekal Abhiyan and generating funds to support the education and well-being of children in rural and tribal communities. The event's promotion also extended to social media platforms, with videos, reels, and messages circulated across different groups to boost participation and awareness.

Mumbai Women's Committee president Sushma Daga and secretary Manjushree Newatia expressed their gratitude to the event's sponsors, committee members, musicians, caterers, venue management team, and office staff for their contributions to the successful execution of the Garba Mahotsav.