
During the winter, the feedings have been starting much later in the day due to the chilly and foggy mornings and today is no exception. I arrive early, and there are only a few locals assisting the cooks and preparing the site. Hot lemon tea is made on the fire as the women start rolling the dough for the puris that will later be deep fried.
As the cooking continues, the children start to arrive. There is a playful mood as they run around the graveyard, play hide and seek, tag, and climb trees. Today's feeding starts after 2:30pm, but the children are too busy playing to care about the time. As the numbers grow, the children are then seated to create some order. A hearty vegetable Masala curry, made from vegetables purchased at the market this morning, hot puris, and a banana are on the menu. The food is fresh, hot and delicious as we feed around 150 children.
Father Dilraj has told me that the staff and local communities become more organized and loving in their service during these feedings. It is not always so in other domains within their organization and other programs. The grace and love of Sai Maa.