Journalism of Courage
Young volunteers at the recently held Heritage-2010 series say that having fun while work helped them organise the event in the best possible manner
This is an informal managerial course, says Gargi Paigude,president,Spic Macay,Pune chapter,while explaining her experience in organising the recently held mega fest Heritage-2010. The 15-day event that witnessed patrons of Indian classical art forms,performing in the city,was,in a way,for the students and by the students. From printing and drafting souvenirs and brochures to receiving the guest,arranging their stay and looking after them it was all commendably handled by the students.
Kiran Seth,founder of Spic Macay,says,I started it for the youth and what could be better than the youth handling the whole movement and why only a show. These students are the backbone of any event we do. I have been here to help them. They are the actual leaders,who take decision and also execute it; we are here only for advice.
When asked about the secret behind the flawless coordination,there was a unanimous opinion that having no single leaders makes it both easy and fun to work. It is because we are happy doing this that we are able to deliver our best, says Pourush Ranka,a student volunteer,adding,I am looking after travelling but our responsibility is not water tight and so I am able to help my friends when I am free. We dont have a boss or subordinate culture here,so we can take our own decision,however,we keep everybody else in the loop so that there is no confusion.
Sharing the secret behind the smooth management,Paigude says that they have a checklist and a set way of handling things,which is decided at the weekly meetings. But most important is the work culture,which is informal and friendly. Except for dealing with the artiste,which is handled cautiously,everything else is fun, she adds.
Viral Tolia,a student of MIT was the in-charge of the nights event says,I am from MIT and therefore it was my responsibility to make this event happen in the auditorium. And I am happy that I was able to do it.
Appreciating the effort of the youth,Mohan Veena exponent Vishwa Mohan Bhatt,says,I am not only happy but also amazed to see that every little detail has been taken care of by these young organisers. And while I talk with the press or their seniors,everything is ready leaving no room for complains.
Siddharth Iyengar,a 19-year-old is popular among the regular guests as he is always there during the press conferences,back-stage or compering the show,though he is in-charge of accommodation of the artistes and venue. He says,Doing anything alone,would make one feel disenchanted,disinterested and finally quit but the young group here is great to work with. And the opportunity to be with artistes and meet them,talk to them is rewarding in itself.
While the tasks might sound Herculean,but the attitude of these youngsters make it sound like a picnic.
