and how impressed he was by the work of the Sabha. He emphatically stated that he would love to make Guyana a part of his life and visit as often as he could. The hundreds assembled applauded enthusiastically impressed by his humility and sincerity. To the chanting of prayers, a symbolic coconut was broken by Dr. Persaud at the entrance of Bal Nivas. The ribbon was cut by Mr. Sonu Nigam and the commemorative plaque unveiled by Dr. Persaud, Excellency President Donald Ramotar and Mr. Sonu Nigam. All those gathered took the opportunity to go on guided tours to explore the newly constructed building. All were impressed with the warmth emanating from the building and the space and design.
Bal Nivas was designed by Architect, Mr. Alvin Thorne and built by Mr. Rafeek Kassim of Kascon Engineering Service. It was constructed in large measure with proceeds from mega concerts featuring superstar playback singers Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, AlkaYagnik and Udit Narayan and complemented by donations from local businesses, individuals, families, the Sabha’s New York Chapter and devotees of the Minnesota Vishnu Mandir. Bal Nivas is a 2 story, 10,000 sq. feet concrete building expected to cater for children of all back grounds and beliefs
92 - Horizons 2014