Project KHEL

Over 2 impactful days, across 6 engaging sessions, we worked with 242 Grade 6 boys to explore one important question: What is the difference between a harmless prank and harmful bullying?

Through discussions, activities, and reflection, boys learned to recognize the fine line between teasing and behavior that can leave lasting emotional scars. Together, we talked about how to respond when faced with bullying, how to support others, and most importantly, how not to become a bully ourselves.

Building empathy, accountability, and kindness—one conversation at a time.

7 years on the team, 13 years with Project KHEL—and Kajal has truly grown with us. ❤️

From joining us as one of our children in 2013, graduating from the programme in 2019, to becoming part of the team immediately after—her journey feels especially special.

Powered by chai, loyalty, and mild disapproval, Kajal occasionally shares something she’s cooked—with so many disclaimers that we have no choice but to compliment her. She gracefully claims the last (and usually biggest) bite, collects food from everyone’s plates, and struggles to finish it all. Her commitment to fitness is equally strong—especially her rule of only eating biryani if someone else is treating. 😂

Beyond the food rituals and quiet judgement for colleagues not doing their jobs well, Kajal is deeply caring, fiercely loyal, and brings her whole heart to the children and the work she does every day.

Project KHEL is lucky to celebrate 7 years of Kajal as a colleague—and 13 beautiful years of having her as part of our family.

Mixed gender spaces create something powerful — friendship.

When boys and girls grow up playing, learning, and simply existing together, they begin to see each other beyond stereotypes. These small moments of comfort, trust, and companionship quietly shape a more equal and compassionate world.

Most of these children come to this second shift school straight from work — and rush back to it as soon as the bell rings.

That’s how it used to be. Gone in seconds!

But now, something quietly beautiful happens.

A few of them stay back. Just for a minute.
We don’t ask. They don’t have to.
They simply choose to — helping us pack up, stacking things away.

In that one minute, you can feel it —
they’ve understood the care, the effort, the space we are trying to build for them, and they respond with love through actions like this.

No impact evaluation will ever capture this.
But this… this is the impact ❤️

Sitting in circles, just talking—no pressure, no judgment.
Today, we encouraged children to open up to their peers about what’s going on inside their minds. We explored mental health through something many of them relate to: overthinking.

They shared what it feels like—endless “what ifs,” replaying moments, worrying about things that haven’t even happened. Together, we talked about simple ways to cope: pausing, grounding ourselves, sharing with a friend, and gently reminding each other that thoughts aren’t always facts.

Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation to feel a little lighter. 🤍

Our spaces are their happy place ❤️