Kanjak Puja is a ritual where young girls are worshipped as manifestations of the Goddess Durga during the auspicious time of Navratri. For the very first time, Silver Oaks kids and residents came together to celebrate the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami through Community Kanjak Puja at the Community Center. A picture of Goddess Durga was set-up at the centre, adorned with flowers and colourful decorations. The festivities began at 9:30 in the morning when over 25 cute little faces graced the gathering with their presence. The air in the community centre was filled with the soul-stirring bhajans that washed over those present there with divine energy. Dressed in vibrant colours each child was a vision of delight. The little kanjaks were made to sit in rows before the picture of Maa Durga. Their eyes sparkled with excitement and their innocent faces glowed with anticipation, as they patiently waited for the moment when the residents would begin to offer them prasad. Many residents came to seek blessings, and presented the Kanjaks with gifts, prasad (puri, halwa, and chana) and juices. The kids excitement was off the charts as they received so many gifts – and that’s pure happiness in its most adorable form. The kids also enjoyed some fun-filled games! The festivities carried on until noon and many parents expressed their gratitude and satisfaction for the thoughtful idea and arrangement.
The vision behind this arrangement quite simple : to provide a common space where children and residents could come together in one place and enjoy the rituals and festivities as one big family. The little children were spared the fatigue of going from house to house under the heat of the scorching sun, while residents were relieved of the task of seeking out children to offer prasad. The maiden attempt into this idea proved to be successful and could be beginning of something truly meaningful and valuable for the residents.
