Not all Santas come in red. Some even dress casually but have an equally big heart when it comes to giving.
Every year Pash, one of Pune’s most charming and attractive restaurants is a living example, and usually around Christmas, when children who have probably never eaten, sit at the restaurant’s wooden tables and have the meal of their lives. From pizza to pasta, and from gingerbread man to plum cake, the chefs here open their kitchens and hearts to accommodate a child’s every foodie desire.
“The satisfaction they get from doing this is probably more than the joy they experience,” says Paash owner Vaishali Karad, as she makes sure no one leaves without a gift pack to the 35 or so girls from the Revathi Nyan Foundation seated at her table. His staff gathered for them with food.
“We really enjoyed the healthy and delicious food. We have never tried anything like this before,” said Anjali Rathore, happily decorating gingerbread houses and enjoying the specially curated menu.
The day began with a fun gingerbread house decorating activity, followed by a feast featuring Sri Lankan rice, noodles, chocolate cake, and the cafe’s signature pani-puri. The fun didn’t stop there as the girls also showcased their talent with a lively dance performance. In the spirit of Christmas, Pash also gifted each child a box of cookies, and the event concluded with a warm cake-cutting ceremony.
Vaishali Karad, owner of Pash, who is committed to sustainable living, expressed her happiness at organizing the event, “I enjoy being with them. They get a new opportunity to find something different. This year we have also arranged a special menu to make the day even more memorable.”
Revathi Nyan Foundation teaches 70 to 100 students in various subjects like basic tally, data entry, English, science and mathematics with special emphasis on computer literacy and robotics. The foundation also organizes field trips and provides much-needed donations to children. The children here have been coming to Pash for the past three years.
“They mix everything well. Children love the experience,” said Revathi Bhamre, who runs the foundation and educates hundreds of children at her own expense.
“Before I didn’t know English, madam taught me everything. Because of her support, we all believe that even a girl can do anything. She has more power than expected,” said Pooja Gumare, “Vaishali Ma’am’s cafe is very big and famous. She has won many medals in marathons and the food here is healthy.”
Paashh Cafe’s annual commitment to giving back extends beyond Christmas. Every year, the cafe celebrates its anniversary with the children of Apla House, organizing activities such as magic shows, storytelling and festive meals. Karad (48) of Beed says, “For us it’s about creating experiences that kids love. “Most of them come from such difficult backgrounds and their home conditions are often challenging. They are the children of watchmen, house helpers, autorickshaw drivers but I am amazed by their confidence. None of them show any embarrassment and I like that.”
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