Once again, ‘Santa Claus’ Ramu Pillay hosted over 125 children residing in homes across Mahé to a Christmas lunch at the Asian Fusion restaurant, Au Cap yesterday.

The Pillay R Group business chain has been hosting this annual event for less privileged children for over 16 years now.

The children were from Foyer de la Solitude, Foyer de la Providence, Foyer de Nazareth and the President’s Village.

According to the group’s managing director, Rajesh Pandya, Covid or not, this party is inevitable for the children coming from the various homes.

“This is our tradition and every year we have to meet for Christmas. All staff at Pillay R group get together and celebrate Christmas with the less fortunate. It is an opportunity for the children to also partake in some festive fun, even though they might not be celebrating Christmas in a traditional family setting,” shared Mr Pandya.

Doris Belle has been responsible for the organisation of this party for the last 15 years. “This year we are not offering any toys as gift but we asked the children what they wanted/needed this year. Apart from that Pillay R group gave to each child a gift pack comprising slippers to wear for school, a beach kit and candies.”

She also shared that Ramu Pillay holds a special place in his heart for the children and for old and disabled people. He makes sure that every year he organises a party for them.

“Even during the year if they are in need of anything, they contact Mr Pillay. This year even the staff from the different foyers and one of their children are being invited for the party. As usual, each year, a child who has performed very well will receive a special gift,” added Ms Belle.

Celine Baccus, the executive secretary of the Council of the disabled who was also representing the Minister for Youth, Sports and Family Affairs, noted that “it is an honour for the ministry to be present here today as when we realise the children that are in the homes come from broken families and if us as an organisation does not stand up and hold the hands of our children, who else will do it? Our ministry is pleased to note that Mr Pillay took this initiative to hold this Christmas lunch for our children so that they can feel loved during these special moments”.

The director of the President’s Village, Brigitte Balette, shared with us that this event is among the most awaited ones by the children of the President’s Village. “Our 42 children come here and have some fun and also make new friends. Christmas is a time to share love and gifts and around the year we should keep giving this love.”

They were joined by representative of the Indian high commission and other guests from different organisations.

Aside from lunch and refreshments at the end of the afternoon, the children were able to receive their special gifts as requested by themselves.

Vidya Gappy

Photos: Jude Morel