Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar & Lions District 322B1 Launch Smile Street to Empower Children Through Choice, Joy and Community Care
Ambar Bhattacharya, Takmaa News, Kolkata, 22nd Nov 2025 : Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar, in collaboration with Lions Safari Park and the Lions Club of Calcutta North, Lions District 322B1, successfully launched Smile Street—a unique community initiative aimed at creating joyful, inclusive, and meaningful engagement opportunities for children from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
The programme, held at Lions Safari Park, Rabindra Sarobar, witnessed enthusiastic participation from leaders and members of both Rotary and Lions. Distinguished attendees included Rtn. Dr. Ramendu Homchaudhuri, Governor, Rotary District 3291; Mr. Debasish Kumar, MLA and Mayor-in-Council, Kolkata Municipal Corporation; Lion Manju Chamaria, District Governor, Lions District 322B1; Rtn. Shekhar Mehta, Rotary International President 2021–22; Rtn. Sanjay Bhalotia, President, Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar; Rtn. Pranay Agarwal, Chairperson, Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar; Mr. Pradeep Agarwal, Secretary, Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar; Lion Anil Sarogi, President, Lions Club of Calcutta North; and Lion Niranjan, Main Secretary, Lions Club of Calcutta North.
As part of Smile Street, each child received a ₹1,000 shopping coupon, empowering them to independently choose essential or desired items—an initiative designed to promote dignity, confidence, and decision-making. The children selected from a wide range of educational and utility products, including school bags, storybooks, study tables, stationery, sports kits, tiffin boxes, pencil boxes, drawing copies, bedsheets, and other useful supplies.
The event also featured interactive and recreational activities that brought smiles, creativity, and joy to every child present. The meticulous efforts of volunteers, staff, and organisers ensured the success of this heartwarming community programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Rtn. Sanjay Bhalotia, President, Rotary Calcutta Mahanagar, said:
“Smile Street is not just an event—it is a step towards nurturing confidence and independence among children. By giving them the freedom to choose, we are helping them realise that their preferences, needs, and aspirations matter. This collaboration with the Lions fraternity reflects the true spirit of service and together, we hope to continue creating opportunities that brighten young lives.”
Smile Street stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion, creating a space where children can experience happiness, feel valued, and grow with confidence.
Rtn Kavita Bhalotia , Rtn Pradeep Agarwal , Rtn Pranay Agarwal and entire mahanagar family and also all the participants club of rotary district 3291
Special thanks to lions club of north Calcutta for their unwavering support
The program was inaugurated in presence of Debashish Kumar, MLA, PRIP Shekhar Mehata , DG Rtn Ramendu homchaudhary of rotary district 3291 and DG LN Manju chamaria , LION DISTRICT 322B1
