Children of prisoners celebrate Diwali in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], October 31 : Children of prisoners celebrated Diwali with fireworks and dancing at the jail hostel in Madhur Mayee Adarsha Sikshya Niketan in Bhubaneswar.
The hostel, Madhur Mayee Adarsha Sikshya Niketan, was established in 2003 to support children of prisoners from various jails across the state. It is managed by the Odisha Patita Udhar Samiti (OPUS), a city-based non-governmental organisation (NGO).
Speaking to ANI, Stephen, a child staying at the hostel, said, "I am quite happy today after celebrating Diwali with my brothers and sisters here at Madhur Mayee Adarsha Sikshya Niketan. I have been staying here for the past six years and celebrate all festivals with traditional rituals. Today, we all lit earthen diyas, set off fireworks, and danced to celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm."
"Madhur Mayee Adarsha Sikshya Niketan has been run by the Odisha Patita Udhar Samiti since 2003. Today, we organised all the arrangements for the Diwali celebration. The boys and girls danced, set off fireworks, had lots of fun, and celebrated Diwali together. We currently care for around 47 children of prisoners, providing them with all basic facilities. They do not dwell on memories of their parents and live happily among the other children," said Matrumayee, Secretary of OPUS.