In pictures: Young musicians strike the right chord in support of Debanjan Share Girls’ Academy

Four teenagers — (L-R) Anushka Prakash (19), Arjun Prakash (17), Samara Mehta Vyas (17) and Mehr Nadir Babaycon (13) — organised a musical fundraiser, ‘Music for a Cause’, which was held at The Glenburn Penthouse on January 11

The funds raised through their musical talents will be directed towards the development of the Debanjan Share Girls’ Academy, run by the Debanjan Sen Foundation in Kalimpong

In 2022, Anushka, Samara, Mehr and Arjun successfully fundraised for the first time, contributing to the renovation of the residential girls’ football academy’s hostel building. The quartet reunited as the academy required additional funds for further development

Family, friends and relatives of the four teenagers also participated in the event to support the talented young girls of the Academy, who would otherwise find it impossible to make a professional career in football

With Samara (left) and Mehr (right) on the vocals, Anushka on the keys and Arjun on the drums, the musical evening had a great line-up of western songs like ‘Yellow’ by Coldplay, ‘Stand By Me’ by Ben E. King, ‘Love of my life’ by Queen and more

Speaking about the initiative, the 19-year-old Anushka said, “The fund we raised two years ago was used to renovate their hostel. I got the opportunity to go and visit the Academy in Kalimpong. After seeing the girls’ dedication, we felt they have great potential and need to be supported”

The second edition of ‘Music for a Cause’ featured live music, a delightful grazing table, barbecue dinner, drinks, raffle prizes and stunning views of the city from the Glenburn Penthouse

Andrew Fleming, British High Commissioner in Kolkata (above), and Rowan Ainsworth, Australian High Commissioner in Kolkata (below), were present at the event. Ainsworth, who visited the football academy recently, said, “It is a fantastic place and the equipment they have is adequate, but basic. They could do better with a little more support. Thanks to the kids and everybody here today for trying to make that happen”

Introducing the cause and the academy to the audience, philanthropist Ratan Postwalla said, “The academy by Debanjan Sen Foundation spends about Rs 10 lakhs a year for these talented girls with the support of various donors. But running a residential academy with 20-25 girls is challenging and continuous support is crucial”

Husna-Tara Prakash, owner of the Glenburn Penthouse and mother of Anushka and Arjun, was also present at the event to encourage the young musicians