This year, there is a direct correlation between the number of times an Indian batsman clears the boundary during the World Cup and better healthcare for underprivileged children.
The Hindu 's ‘6 For a Cause' initiative in association with VGN Developers brings corporates and the public together to cheer for India and mobilise funds for Ekam Foundation's charity project, Bala Arogya Suraksha.
So every time someone from the Indian team smacks the ball for a six, VGN Developers would donate Rs.10,000 towards the charity project. As the campaign gets awareness, even the rare few who have not been following the World Cup have reason to keep track of the Indian total.
As actress Shriya Saran who confesses that she's not much of a cricket fan, says: “I think it's a very creative and innovative idea. When you are clapping for a sixer, you are also clapping and cheering for someone's happiness and health. It's beautiful when you can contribute to a cause and bring happiness to a child.”
“It is amazing to see that all through the entertainment for a month, there's help coming in for a cause,” says Suriya, who is currently shooting the climax portions for his film “7am Arivu”. “I have not heard of something as creative as this before and I am sure that a lot more people will come together for The Hindu 's initiative towards healthcare. I hope there are similar projects for education this summer because help will be needed for higher education,” adds the actor who runs Agaram Foundation, an NGO dedicated to providing higher education for the underprivileged.
“Not that I need reason to clap or that cricket players need reason to hit a six, but now there's one more reason to clap for a Sachin, Dhoni or a Sehwag sixer,” says “Tamizh Padam” hero Shiva, currently wrapping up his new comedy “Shiva Poojayil Karadi”.
“It's a win-win for all,” says R. Madhavan, whose new film, “Tanu Weds Manu”, is fighting the onslaught of cricket mania at the box office. “ The Hindu hits 6 sixes in an over. Congratulations.”
To donate, send your cheque/draft (along with your address and phone number) in favour of The Hindu – Ekam to Box No. HB 999, The Hindu , Chennai 600002 or log on to www.thehindu.com/6foracause to make a donation online.
Details of Ekam Foundation's healthcare projects are available at http://ekamoneness.org