Xmas and its pet project

Christmas is a time for giving. But while most are playing secret Santa with their friends and colleagues, there are a few who are bringing the joy to our city’s stray cats, dogs and other creatures, out on the streets. They have taken the opportunity to spread the joy among the furry residents of the city. Ganesh Nayak of Animals Matter to Us, a Malad-based NGO, informs us that gifts and donations have been pouring in since the past week.

Ganesh Nayak

“We’ve had donations of food, blankets for the cold, medicines and there are also a few good samaritans who have taken the opportunity for a feeding drive in Mira Road, where they will be feeding over a 100 dogs,” says Ganesh. “Not only that, but we’ve also had a generous donation of Rs 1 lakh from Kalpesh Kabra, the chairman of the Riday Foundations. His colleague Afzal Kaladia has also donated Rs 70,000.”

Kalpesh, who happens to be an animal-lover, thought it was about time that he extended his hand beyond the usual people’s outreach programmes his charity is usually a part of. “Our organisation is very active with a number of social causes. However, I realised that we have been overlooking animals, which are an integral part of our city. So, when I found out about Animals Matter to Us and the fact that they are working with animals from across the Malad Marve area, I thought that a donation to them would be the perfect way to spread some happiness this Christmas,” he says, adding that the amount will be used by the organisation to expand their premises in Malad.

Cynthia Reilly, a resident of Mira Road, is another Mumbaikar, who has taken it upon herself to spread some joy among the animals in her neighbourhood.      

She has not only gifted Ganesh’s furry friends with blankets and a substantial amount of food, but has also taken it upon herself to go around Mira Road and feed the local canine residents. “The idea is to feed the dogs that don’t already have regular feeders. So, to do that, we had to search out the interior alleys and find dogs there,” she explains, adding that the extra food is being distributed amongst the dogs in her neighbourhood. Accompanying Cynthia on her expedition was Jivin Carlos, who recalls being an animal lover forever. “I’ve always loved dogs and cats, from when I was a child, and I’ve also had pets throughout my childhood. So I suppose it’s only natural for me to want to do something for them,” he says. This is the third time that Jivin is taking part in a feeding drive. “It’s a very rewarding process to see them getting the nourishment they need. Dogs and cats cannot voice their rights, but they are just as much a part of this city as we are; it feels like the right thing to do. This feels like a nice and rewarding way to spread some Christmas cheer,” he adds.