Khelshala completes successful one year14 August, 2010

It was just not another day in the life of those gathered at Khelshala. The organisation founded by Satinder Bajwa, former mentor of the eight-time world squash champion Jansher Khan, not only completed one year of its existence but the joy that reflected from the faces of the trainees suggested it had done more than just helping them learn the finer nuances of the game.

There was another reason to look forward to the day as the trainees got to meet Viren Rasquinha, former captain of the Indian hockey team and VM Ranjeet, national tennis champion. Not only the trainees interacted with the players but they also got a chance to play squash with Viren and Ranjeet, who looked pleased to do so.

"In just one year we have met few big players and it means alot to have them to talk to and they also share their experiences about their playing career. It motivates us to do better and aim for something big," shared Poonam, one of the many trainees who have been getting training from Satinder.

It was in January that Bajwa had invited the Harvard women's squash team to understand the children's perspective and boost their morale.

"It is my sincere effort to help these underpriviliged children become successful in life. They not only learn squash here but we also try to help them build their confidence which will help them in the future. It definitely feels good to see Khelshala completing its first anniversary. The kids have progressed well and it's a pleasant sight to see them growing up," said Bajwa.

Meanwhile, Viren, who quit hockey in 2008, said it was a good initiative taken by Bajwa to help the children. "I would definitely want to see more such centres working in other parts of the country. The facilities provided here to the children is good and it's nice to see the kids play squash. They definitely look happy while playing a game," said Viren.

Khelshala is a non-profit organization dedicated to the empowerment of underprivileged children through the sport of squash. It was founded in August 2009. Khelshala has grown to provide students with more than athletic opportunities, such as academic tuition and musical lessons. There are around 50 children at Khelshala.