The shelter's director, Father Xavier Devadas, told Newsline: ``Every month, we organise such melas, and till date, we have had 130 such events. This time, we thought of a Diwali mela to ensure that these rootless and roofless children do not miss one bit of the fun others have during this time.''

Apart from the fun and games at the Don Bosco school, boosted by a live performance by pop star Raageshwari, the individual achievements of some street children were feted. Like sixteen-year-old Dinesh Datta, whose first solo art exhibition depicting street children was put up. Datta, while still dreaming of becoming an artist, has taken to banner paintings to earn wages.

Joint Commissioner of Police T K Chowdhary, who visited the mela, took keen interest in 20-year old Santosh Pendse, who wants to join the police. Deputy Commissioner ofPolice (Zone IV) Ashok Dongre also interacted with the children.

Child development workshops

The Creative Children's Club has organised child development workshops at Ghatkopar, Dadar, Vile Parle, Tardeo and Grant Road during Diwali holidays. The workshops will focus on improving memory, effective study methods and general knowledge. Children will also be trained in origami, finger painting and other creative activities.

For details, contact Rita Lalan or Shailesh Lalan on 8690859 and 3824882, or visit Chetana Arts, C J Building, behind Konica Photo studio, R R Roy Marg, Girgaum.