Ending The Stigma Against HIV

There’s nothing like the festival of Diwali which captivates the entire nation with a frenzy of joy and celebration. The revelry of this ancient festival traces its roots back to the days of the Skanda Purana. Held in the month of Kartika, the festival of lights then signified the advent of prosperity for farmers after a tiring harvest season. While some associate Diwali with the return of Lord Ram to the city of Ayodhya, many believe it to be a celebration of the advent of Goddess Lakshmi, who was born on the first day of the festival from the churning of the cosmic ocean of milk. Despite the differing opinions, the common thread which links the many stories is the triumph of hope over despair and the yearning for a better tomorrow.

As a tribute to the humble spirit of Diwali and Children’s day, we at JustRide teamed up with our friends at the Desire Society this year in an effort to spread the beautiful message of this lovely festival.

Desire focuses on disadvantaged children emphasising on HIV+ victims, children abandoned by one or both parents, children of sex workers, truck drivers and children who have been abused and belong to poor socio economic conditions. As of today the organisation is has reached up to 800 such needy children across the country. While there may not be a cure for AIDS, the people at Desire have dedicated themselves in an effort to provide a dignified life to these children, many of whom have lost their parents to this dreadful disease.

The day kickstarted with a boat ride near the shores of Gateway of India.

Followed by a fun filled trip to the Hanging Gardens.

And finally some delightful fireworks in the evening.

As always, none of this would have been possible without the cheerful support of our team who gladly contributed their festive time to this wonderful cause.