Chandu, made the day! Chandu, all the way!

On 6th July, 2015, someone very special paid a visit to the children at The Indian School-Second Shift. The personality about whom we are talking was a great hit amongst the kids! Ripples of excitement ran through the children as they looked forward to meeting their new friend, Chandu, the Pig. Yes! You read it right! An adorable pig, affectionately called Chandu by everyone, came to meet his little friends at our School. The children of the Pre-Primary classes welcomed the news amidst claps and delighted squeals!

Ahead of the Environment Week which starts from 13th July, 2015, the purpose of bringing and introducing a pet animal to the children was to educate them on the significance of living in equilibrium and harmony with all living beings that co-exist in our world. This sacred message was profoundly delivered to the children by making them personally meet Chandu and know him for real. All the Primary and Pre-Primary classes queued up as their teachers led them to where Chandu was. Chandu was accompanied by his caretaker, who gave a information about Chandu and about his likes and dislikes. The children were told that unlike the stories that go around about pigs and their abominable conditions- Chandu's habitat is contrary to them all. He is well-kept and fed. Chandu is a pinkish white, cuddly-looking pig. Soya, carrots and other healthy vegetables are his food regime. The children learnt that mud is applied on the bodies of pigs because it provides the most effective way for them to cool off during the hot months.The students watched Chandu, the wonder pig in great curiosity as he performed his tricks like a trained dog!

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Each class, by turn, along with their teacher, sat around the animal under the careful watch of the caretaker who sat next to Chandu. Chandu seemed to be lapping up all the attention that he received . Some of the children giggled as they happily stroked and patted him, while a few were wary to go close. There were a few fearless kids too, who had fun touching the tail of Chandu, that gave a quick wriggle on the touch!

Back in the classroom, the teachers made the children speak in detail about their experience with Chandu. The children sang rhymes, listened to the famous story of The Three Little Pigs, and were also asked to squeal like a pig! It turned out to be an out-and-out educative and thrilling session that left the children with valuable lessons on having a caring and compassionate attitude towards these animals. The children happily OINKED! OINKED! through the day!

Ms. Archana Shyam.