Environment Minister Pankaja Munde Celebrates Diwali with Orphaned Children

Joins them enthusiastically in painting lamps and making decorative lanterns

Mumbai, Oct 2025 : Diwali is not merely a festival of lights, fireworks, or decorations — it is a celebration of humanity, love, and togetherness, said Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde, who celebrated the festival in a heartwarming way by spending it with orphaned children. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces, Minister Munde became deeply emotional.

The event was organized jointly by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and The Children’s Aid Society for Underprivileged Kids Orphanage, at the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai. Director of the Museum of Modern Art, Nidhi Chaudhary, was also present on the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Minister Pankaja Munde said, “It does not matter what caste or religion these orphaned children belong to — what matters is that they are human beings. The joy in their eyes is truly inspiring for society. We should build a society where every individual creates their own identity with dignity.”

She also mentioned that the Environment Department has been conducting awareness campaigns on social media to promote a pollution-free Diwali, urging citizens to celebrate the festival in an eco-friendly and responsible manner. “Let us celebrate Diwali in harmony with nature — free from noise and air pollution,” she added.

On this occasion, Minister Munde joined the children in making decorative lanterns (akash kandils), painting earthen lamps (diyas), and participating in a painting activity. She also inaugurated a lantern-making workshop and an art exhibition featuring the works of renowned artist A. A. Almelkar at the venue.

The event beautifully reflected the spirit of Diwali — spreading light, compassion, and joy among those who need it most.