Celebrating Earth Hour 60+

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE! EARTH HOUR 60+

A (WWF), GREENLINE INITIATIVE!

- Sunita D’Souza

St. Joseph’s High School,

 Wadala,

3^rd April, 2013

On 23rd March 2013, the eco-enthusiasts of St. Joseph's High School, Wadala (approximately 20 students from the Primary and the Secondary sections along with Mrs. Sharmila Gomes and Ms. Sunita D'Souza) were drawn towards the premises of Don Bosco High School, Matunga. We had a date with nature! Time: 8.30 - 9.30 p.m. You guessed it right – the Earth hour! Soulful music greeted us upon our arrival, and the songs played by two musicians strumming the guitar provided a melodious symphony to the serene atmosphere surrounding us. The compere warmly welcomed the many volunteers sporting Earth Hour 60+ tee-shirts promoting the eco-conscious spirit.

The Mayor of our city, Mr. Sunil Prabhu arrived soon. He was accompanied by Rev. Fr. Savio Silveira (the Greenline Guru). Addressing the gathering, he stated that he was gladdened to witness such a good response to the eco-friendly call - the 'Earth Hour', reiterating the need to save electricity!. Personally, he supported this drive by asking his family members to switch off the lights in his house from 8.30 - 9.30 p.m. He congratulated the Greenline Team that collaborated with the WWF for this venture, as also everyone present for coming forward to bring about an awareness to save electricity.  

The entire gathering then marched in a procession with lit candles to realize their goal - Earth Hour 60+.  They began their promenade from Don Bosco High School, Matunga and walked in the direction of Five Gardens in tow. A spontaneous rendition of the song 'Hum Honge Kameyab Ek Din' by some students energised the rally. At King's Circle, we halted for a few minutes to form an eco-friendly circle. We were in for a surprise! The students of Shelter Don Bosco and the Greenline volunteers demonstrated the importance of light in our lives through a street play performed in the form of a lively, energetic and delightful dance. They grooved in sync, their message to ‘save electricity’ loud and clear.  Feeling energised and rejuvenated, we continued our walk down the streets with lit candles. The news reporters and the media personnel present during the rally were seen recording the sequence of events and capturing the special scenes on their cameras of this momentous occasion.

Once at the venue, a pledge was taken by all the eco-crusaders to continue being eco-friendly and do their bit to save electricity. Snacks were served to everyone present. The compere thanked everyone for making this mission possible. Precious memories of this 'special Earth Hour 60+ walk' will live on; time to shine on!