Shani stopped in front of a set of stairs staring at them with intensity, " These stairs seem to go up as far as my eyes can follow. It's like the end is above the clouds in heaven. " He turned to his right, " In total, there are 700 steps. It's a big task to climb all the steps but this is a good chance to train the body and mental fortitude."
One step after another, 100 steps after 100 steps Shani reached the end of the stairs as the beautifully crafted Ganesh temple appeared. This was not the first time visiting the temple, he frequently came here.
"I have really good stamina but climbing 700 steps tires me out."
A middle year aged man came rushing from the temple towards Shani and stopped before him. "Sir, sorry I wasn't able to greet you sooner."
"Amitabh, it doesn't matter. Besides I just got here."
"Thank God. Come on in."
"Have the others arrived?"
"Leaving Hanuman, Harsh and Anu, the others are here."
"They will soon be here. No need to worry about it. Let's begin today's social event."
They walked through the gates of the temple. Shani gestured 'praanam' to the Idol of Lord Ganesh and asked for his guidance as he always does. Some small clusters of devotees gathered in the big hall praying to their god, and wishing for good health and wealth.
The room beside the 'Idol Room' was the gathering place. Jhansi pounced on Shani, the moment he entered the room . He held her before she lost her balance.
"Hey idiot, what were you planning? You might have injured yourself."
Jhansi cutely bite her nails, " Chee, I was sure to have caught you off guard. I guess not."
The others also greeted Shani.
"We are conducting today's social event to provide a comfortable environment and food to the poor and homeless. Food and shelter will be provided to 500 unfortunate people who keep begging every day at the steps of the temple."
Shanti said, "The catering company has already set up all the equipment and is preparing the meal."
Charan said, "All of you must have seen the security personnel standing at the patrol. They are already busy at work ."
Ananya said," Plumbers came this morning to set up the water facilities. People can drink water without facing problems. "
Anu, Hanuman and Harsh arrived one after another and expressed their sorry for arriving late.
"I am very happy our task is almost complete. Since everyone is here, let me begin. Thank you all for not only support but help me with the event. I surely couldn't have done it without all of your help. We have been planning this event for the last month and finally, the day has come. May the event be a success."
"Harsh, were the people below informed about the event."
"Yes, all have been informed. If you notice, this last month the mood among them has been good and they have been looking forward to this day."
"Nice, nice. Tell them to come to the plaza. To remove all mistrust they must know the reason we are doing this. They know more than anyone, nothing in this world is free. One must give something to gain another in equal value. That's what their life experience has taught them."
Charan raised his hand to speak, " Many of the people below are drunkards and act very rowdy. It's important to be careful of their actions. Also, they might start fighting for food."
"I have an easy solution. The girls and boys will be split into a couples group. It's the girl's job to serve food while the boy makes sure about their protection."
Jhansi asked, "Why not the opposite?"
"Since the beggars will not make any fishy move if the girls were to serve food. They would surely behave themselves. It's just how human actions and desires work."
"The event will begin at 7:30 pm. Gather all the people below in the plaza in an hour. Hoping the event will be a success."
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Shani's face was glued to the window looking outside with a lot of intensity.
A whack at his head made him turn around. Shani stared at the preparator, "Hey, that was uncalled for !"
"Stop looking outside, that will only increase your anxiety."
Shani sighed, " Is it that obvious??!"
Jhansi said with a smug expression, " Of course "Her expression changed to seriousness, "This is a very important event for you after all. But there is no need to worry. I believe you can achieve anything, once you have set your mind to it."
"I wish I had the same confidence in myself as you have in me. I am scared that they will accept my kindness or see it as cruelty. After all, they might even know what kindness is."
"You will be ok."
Amitabh opened the door, " Just 5 minutes to 7: 30 and the whole crowd has gathered in the plaza."
"Thanks, as always."
"It's my pleasure."
Shani's alarm beeped indicating the end of 5 min. He extended a hand to Jhansi, "Let's go."
Jhansi just nodded.
Shani opened the door and the loud shouting made by 500 people bombarded his ears and senses engulfing him in them. He took his mike and spoke, "I am the leader of Nikambes. We are social entrepreneurs trying to solve the biggest tragedy in out community. Poverty. This event is not going to stop poverty, however it's our hope it contributes to some. It's the only way we can help all of you. I am sure all of you have any questions. Many of you mistrust my intentions. Why would I give a treat to poor people, it's because I thought at least they should be able to enjoy one day in their life. You all are unfortunate souls who ended up in this condition because of various reasons. Perhaps if I had been unlucky then I would be one of you. By doing this I am sending a message to our locality and the whole world, we should at least try to give others happiness in whatever way we can.
Please enjoy these hours as they might be the best you ever have."
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