Brother, sister donate pocket money for amity

LUCKNOW: In a state that has witnessed as many as eight major clashes in nearly six months resulting in death of 15 persons, this must come as a solace.
Chitrangad Shukla and his sister Anushri, both residents of Allahabad have earned laurels for donating their Diwali pocket money to the National Foundation for Communal Harmony, an autonomous organisation with the Union Home Ministry.A trend, which the siblings promise to continue this year as well. Children of Sudhir Kumar Shukla, an accountant - Anushri and Chitrangad had managed to collect Rs 955 and Rs 1,175 respectively in 2011 and send it to the National Foundation for Communal Harmony to help the needy children in their Diwali celebrations.
The proud father and mother (Rashmi) exude confidence and say that this year's Diwali gesture by their children would be better in comparison to last year, as the festival of lights coincides with the eve of Children's Day.
In the letter dated November 25, 2011 sent to the secretary, Lalit Kumar, Chitrangad wrote, "Sir, I, Chitrangad Shukla of Class : VII - A student of St. Joseph's College, Allahabad, India want to donate some money saved by me out of my personal pocket expenses given by my PAPA and MAMMI. Please let me know how can I donate, please. I want to help children for their study and living. I am writing this mail directly to you so that our money may reach to you directly you can receive it properly with receipt to me also of the money sent/donated to you for this noble cause." A similar letter addressed to the same officer was also written by Anushri, a student of class XI-B of St Mary's Convent, Allahabad.
Speaking to TOI, Anushri says, "We will continue with the practice and hope to help someone in celebrating their Diwali, by cutting our festival-related expenses."
At this instance her father intervenes and says, "In 2011, the noble work they did was with the money they got from their grandfather (nana)."
On being asked what inspires them to think and act differently from children of their age, and why they opted for NFCH Chitrangad says, "The only thing that disturbs both of us is the huge difference prevailing in the society in terms of haves and have nots. Secondly, by sending the amount to NFCH, we were doubly sure that our pocket money would not be misused by anyone." To this, Anushri says, "After observing the slum children from close quarters, I could easily calculate how much money we waste in exploding crackers during Diwali. There are other ways also to celebrate Diwali. And this was the thought, which prompted us to do something concrete and tangible."
Although the brother-sister pair is yet to shortlist the agency, which would get their pocket money this year, they are sure that they would help others to light a lamp of hope. When asked what actually leads to rioting especially in UP, Anushri says, "The absence of unity and communication among the public helps the anti-social elements take advantage, thereby rendering us volatile." Endorsing his sister's stand, Chitrangad says, "The tendency of people easily falling prey to mischief mongering has helped the foreign powers to practice the policy of divide and rule and jeopardise or unity." All this could be easily avoided, if we verify things before acting against anyone, adds Chitrangad.
So, what was the reaction of teachers and friends? "All of them were happy for us and praised our efforts," said Chitrangad.