Category: Special Occasion

Special Occasion

Soul-Shaping Heroes: A Teacher’s Day Tribute

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H & Tanisha Cardozo, Team Allycaral

Every year on September 5, India celebrates Teacher’s Day — a heartfelt tribute to educators who dedicate their lives to shaping the future. The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President, a scholar, philosopher, and teacher. When asked if his birthday could be celebrated, he humbly requested that the day be observed as Teacher’s Day instead — emphasizing the value of education and those who impart it.

Throughout history, the role of a teacher has always transcended the classroom. In ancient times, the ‘Guru’ was not merely an instructor but a guide, a mentor, and often a spiritual force who sought out students, trained them rigorously, and passed down generations of knowledge. These Gurus didn’t just teach—they transformed.

Great leaders of history often stood behind even greater teachers. Emperors like King Ashoka the Great were shaped by wise mentors like Chanakya. King Alexander the Great had the philosopher Aristotle as his tutor, while Plato once learned under the guidance of Socrates. Even in modern times, Anne Sullivan’s mentorship of Helen Keller reminds us that teaching is more than instruction—it is empowerment.

This lineage of impactful teaching continues today. Classrooms across India and the world were filled with teachers who cared deeply. Teachers who weren’t just present for the syllabus, but for the students. Many of them acted as a team, building students’ character, guiding them toward the right path, and shaping not just academic outcomes but lives.

These teachers were strict when needed, but also the first to smile, laugh, and celebrate with their students. They taught lessons beyond the textbook—showing up during our struggles, asking the questions others missed, and believing in us long before we believed in ourselves.

Their impact doesn’t end at the classroom door. It lingers in our decision-making, our confidence, and our resilience. Whether they stayed back after hours to explain a difficult concept or gave us advice that stayed with us for decades, these educators have left a permanent mark on our journey.

This Teacher’s Day, we celebrate not just the knowledge they pass on, but the compassion, encouragement, and belief they give us in every small interaction. 

Because every student deserves a teacher like that. 

So here’s to them — the chalk-holding, soul-shaping, heart-hugging heroes of our lives. 

Happy Teacher’s Day — and to all the amazing teachers out there… hip hip hooray!

Special Occasion

Eid Milad-un-Nabi 2025: Celebrating the Prophet’s Life

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Team Allycaral

Eid Milad-un-Nabi, also known as Mawlid, marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad and stands as one of the most spiritually significant festivals observed by Muslims across the world. Celebrated during the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, this day brings communities together in reverence and reflection, commemorating the life and teachings of the Prophet.

The Prophet is believed to be born on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal in 570 CE in Mecca. The first official celebrations begin during the Fatimid period in Egypt and gradually spread to Syria, Morocco, Turkey, and beyond. Over time, both Sunni and Shia communities embrace this day to reflect on the spiritual, moral, and humanitarian legacy of the Prophet.

In 2025, Eid Milad-un-Nabi falls on 5th September (subject to moon sighting). Across India, the festival transforms cities, towns, and neighborhoods into vibrant displays of devotion. Streets glow with lights and colorful banners, mosques and homes are adorned with lanterns, and the scent of sandalwood fills the air during special rites.

Celebrations unfold over several days, with gatherings at mosques and community centers where night-long prayers and Quranic recitations take place. Stories of the Prophet’s compassion, humility, and wisdom are shared with children, while scholars speak on his impact on spiritual and social life. Poetic recitations called naats honor his teachings and personality.

One of the most visible aspects of the celebration is the processions. Massive groups of people, often dressed in white or green, carry flags, chant praise, and sing hymns in devotion. In many places, symbolic sandalwood ceremonies are held over representations of the Prophet’s footprints. These aren’t just traditions—they’re deeply spiritual moments that help believers connect with their faith.

The spirit of Eid-e-Milad is as much about community as celebration. Charitable giving plays a central role, with food, clothes, and gifts distributed to the less fortunate. Communal meals are shared, strengthening bonds and reinforcing the spirit of unity and service.

Cultural programs enhance the richness of the occasion. Models of Mecca and Medina, Islamic calligraphy exhibits, and public education initiatives invite both Muslims and non-Muslims to engage with the Prophet’s message and historical significance.

At its heart, Eid Milad-un-Nabi upholds universal values—compassion, humility, justice, and mercy. It transcends religious ritual and becomes a cultural moment that celebrates India’s deep pluralism. In every prayer, parade, and poem, the Prophet’s legacy continues—uniting hearts and inspiring acts of kindness.

This Eid-e-Milad, on 5th September 2025, take a moment to reflect, give back, and connect—with your faith, your community, and the timeless values that continue to guide millions across the world.

Special Occasion

The Spirit of Onam: Celebrating Kerala’s Grand Festival of Harvest and Heritage

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Team Allycaral

Every year, as Kerala’s lush fields turn golden and the rainforest retreats from the skies, the state comes alive with the festivities of Onam—a ten-day festival that is as vibrant in ritual as it is rich in meaning.

Onam’s origins lie in the legend of King Mahabali, a benevolent asura king renowned for his fairness, whose reign was remembered as Kerala’s golden age. Concerned by his growing power, the devas enlisted Lord Vishnu as Vamana, a dwarf Brahmin, to reclaim cosmic balance. After Mahabali offered everything he had—including his own head for the third step—Vishnu banished him to the netherworld but, moved by his humility, granted him permission to return once every year. That annual homecoming is celebrated as Onam—symbolizing gratitude, humility, and the bond between ruler and people.

Kerala embraces Onam with exuberance: from Atham, when the first layer of the Pookalam—an intricate floral carpet—is laid, to Thiruvonam, the climactic day of feasting and family reunion. The Pookalam evolves over the days into a stunning mosaic of colors and blooms. On the waterways, Vallamkali—snake boat races—unfold in echoes of rhythmic drumming and spirited oar strokes as villages unite in competition.

Central to the festival is the famed Onam Sadya, a lavish vegetarian meal served on banana leaves that can feature anywhere from 11 to over 20 dishes. Each plate—be it Avial’s creamy medley, spicy pickles, tangy curries, or the sweet embrace of Payasam—speaks of diversity, togetherness, and Kerala’s agricultural bounty.

Throughout these days, the air fills with dance and drama: women perform Kaikottikali as they clap in rhythm, while the streets echo with the painted roars of Pulikali—tiger dances—bringing both art and laughter to Onam.

What elevates Onam beyond its rituals is its spirit of inclusivity: Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and non-Malayali communities come together to celebrate a shared heritage of unity, harmony, and joy. In 2025, Onam is being celebrated from August 26 through September 5, with Thiruvonam on September 5—marking the joyous culmination of a season steeped in myth, cultural pride, and communal warmth.

From the first Pookalam petal to the final taste of Payasam, Onam continues to weave Kerala’s past and present into a vibrant celebration of life itself.

Team Allycaral wishes you a Very Happy Onam!
May this harvest festival fill your life with prosperity, happiness, and togetherness.

Special Occasion

Organ Donation in Goa: Dr. Preeti Varghese, SOTTO Joint Director

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

🫀 Every year on August 13, World Organ Donation Day is observed to raise awareness and encourage people to pledge their organs to save lives. This year’s theme, “Answering the Call”, puts the spotlight on healthcare professionals and communities working together to make organ donation a shared responsibility.

Dr. Preeti Varghese, Joint Director of SOTTO Goa, joins AllyCaral.com to share insights on how Goa is advancing this mission through community engagement, education, and public trust.

What is SOTTO Goa?

Established in October 2019 at Goa Medical College, SOTTO Goa is a vital link in India’s National Organ Transplant Programme (NOTP). It regulates deceased donor organ transplants in the state and ensures organ retrieval, storage, and transplantation complies with the Transplantation of Human Organ Act (THOA), 1994.

Key functions include:

  • Organ donation facilitation
  • Organ allocation coordination
  • Maintenance of donor/recipient registries
  • Awareness campaigns and medical training
  • Implementation of national transplant schemes

Awareness Efforts in Goa

SOTTO Goa is actively creating awareness through a diverse set of initiatives:

  • Training programs for medical professionals
  • CMEs and CNEs for continuous education
  • Public campaigns including poster competitions, ad films, walkathons, and awareness drives in schools, colleges, corporates, and social clubs.

These efforts aim to normalize organ donation in daily conversations and break common myths that hinder participation.

Common Myths About Organ Donation

❌ “I’m too old to donate.”
 ✅ Age is not a barrier. Anyone above 18 can pledge. Medical suitability is determined later.

❌ “My body will be disfigured.”
 ✅ Organs are retrieved with surgical precision and dignity — similar to any medical surgery. There is no disfigurement.

How to Pledge in Goa

It’s simple:
👉 Visit notto.abdm.gov.in and register your pledge online.

A printable donor card and digital acknowledgment will be provided.

The Reality: Shortage Still Persists

India’s organ donation rate stands at just 0.6 per million population. In Goa, only kidney and cornea transplants are currently available, and as of now, 80 patients are on the deceased donor kidney transplant waiting list under the Nave Jivit scheme.

Public Attitude: A Slow but Steady Shift

Dr. Varghese believes public attitudes are shifting — but more people need to step forward.

“Organs can’t be manufactured or bought. Only one human can save another through donation,” she emphasizes.

The Role of Youth and Institutions

Dr. Varghese calls on students and schools to take the lead in creating conversations around organ donation:

“The right time to talk is now — when we’re healthy, surrounded by friends and family — not in times of grief.”

Final Message:

“#SayYesToOrganDonation.”
 Let’s step forward and support this noble cause. Your decision today could give someone else a tomorrow.

Special Occasion

Stories of Being Left-Handed in a Right-Handed World

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Many individuals from earlier generations grew up unaware that they were naturally left-handed, often because they were “corrected” during childhood to use their right hand. This often led to long-term adjustment challenges. Even today, left-handed individuals—especially children—might begin using their right hand after observing that most of their peers are right-handed. The need to conform and feel included can cause some to suppress their natural preferences, potentially affecting their comfort and development over time. 

This Left-Handers Day, we spoke to three individuals who reflect on what it’s like growing up left-handed in a world designed for right-handed people. Their stories range from funny to frustrating, but above all, they are real.

✨Jai Vernekar

“Being left-handed in a right-handed world is both fun and frustrating,” says Jai. “Every time I start writing, someone inevitably asks, ‘Wait—are you left-handed?’ as if it’s a rare superpower!”

Fun fact: Jai describes a world where even lefties are surprised to see another leftie. “It’s weird for us when we see a leftie too,” he jokes. “We’re so used to everyone being right-handed.” Some people even challenge them to write with their right hand—just to watch them fail.

🖐️Logan Lobo

“I would instinctively use my left hand for anything,” Logan remembers. “I had to practice making my right hand dominant—handing things over or greeting people.”

Logan found writing the letter S difficult because watching right-handed kids confused him. How long it took him? A couple of years he said. “I don’t think there’s anything special about my left hand,” he states.

Fun fact: Logan says, “I’ve been learning to use my right hand too, just so I can confuse people and they won’t know if I’m lefty or righty.”

🎯Manuela Braganza

“I’m by definition right-handed but use both hands,” Manuela shares. She recalls an eye-opening experience from third grade, when she had mirror twins in her class—identical twins who used opposite hands. At the time, she didn’t even know such a thing existed. Thinking it was a skill she needed to learn, she began to write with her left hand.

While she admits she’s not perfect at writing left-handed, the shift brought unexpected benefits. Manuela found that using her left hand came naturally when she picked up a camera or tried archery. In fact, she shoots archery left-handed because she feels she has more control and better aim using that hand.

Manuela’s ability to use both hands proved especially valuable in her role as a cabin supervisor, where she had to operate the heavy manual doors on Boeing’s smaller aircraft. “They can weigh over a ton,” she explains. “You need your full body strength to open them—especially the angled ones connected to the aerobridge.”

For many crew members, these doors are notoriously difficult. “You need to be skinny to meet the flight standards, but strong enough to open the door, especially in tough conditions like strong winds or on ladders,” she explains. While many crew members struggled or even failed door checks, Manuela’s ambidexterity made the task more manageable— pushing with her left hand while gripping the assist handle with her right gave her greater balance and confidence during the process.

🌍🤝Taking Back the Narrative

For too long, left-handedness was seen as something to correct or fix. But Jai, Logan, and Manuela show us that being left-handed is something to embrace and take pride in—not something to hide or change. This Left-Handers Day, it’s time to take back the narrative, celebrate our differences, and build a world that truly includes everyone—lefties and righties alike.