Last week, we previewed the 18th edition of Camp Royal – our annual Goan holiday experience dedicated to the inner-city kids of Bangalore supported by Christel House and Karma Group. Over the course of four magical days, 60 kids embarked on an action-packed adventure with activities, excursions and more…Here’s a recap of all the fun we got up to…
Day 1
On the morning of 10th July, the children reached Karma Royal Haathi Mahal and were warmly received by the Karma Royal Haathi Mahal team. The kids were divided into four groups, each representing an Indian Premier League cricket team, set to compete against one another for the Camp Royal Prize. To add to the excitement, everyone received T-shirts and fan caps representing their respective teams. They were treated to a delicious South Indian-inspired lunch prepared by Chef Kundan and his team. In the evening it was pool time – one of the most eagerly anticipated experiences for the kids! The evening concluded with an Asian-themed dinner, followed by a mesmerising Magic Show presented by Vaibhav, our Activities Coordinator.
Day 2
On the first full day, the kids headed down South to the hinterlands of Goa to explore a side of the state not many tourists get to see! This excursion was hosted by Soul Travelling, who took the kids to explore prehistoric caves in the village of Rivona and an ancient Hindu temple. This was followed by a picnic at a local spice farm where the kids sipped tender coconuts and made ‘Patoleo’ – a Goan dessert made with rice flour, coconut and jaggery, wrapped in turmeric leaves and steamed. Back at the resort, the Three Monkeys Club hosted a special screening of the Oscar-winning documentary film The Elephant Whisperers.
Day 3
Day Three was another highlight for the kids – Beach Day! The kids headed to Mobor Beach with a team of volunteers where they built sand castles, collected seashells, posed for pictures and splashed around in the sea. We then hosted a picnic on the Grand Gigi’s lawns – a beach venue whose owners and team were kind enough to give all the kids goodie bags which added to their excitement! Hula Hoops, Musical Games, Kabaddi, Football and more by the beach, followed by lunch and ice cream by the sea!
The groups got back to the resort post lunch and after freshening up, were ready for their Talent Show! Each group presented a 10-minute performance followed by special acts from the Karma Royal Haathi Mahal team.
Day 4
The final day began with yoga & meditation before breakfast. During the day, the kids enjoyed pool games and a hip-hop and Bollywood dance workshop where they learned some killer dance moves to the extremely popular – ‘Naatu-Naatu’. In the evening, Esperanca Patricio (MD – India and the Middle East) interacted with the children and was presented with a painting made by a student of Christel House as a gift of gratitude from the children of Christel House. Camp Royal was brought to a close with a sharing of gifts to all of the children. Gifts for the children were purchased with donations received from members of the Karma Group India team from across the country.
We can’t wait for Camp Royal 2024!
To find out how you can support Christel House whether through volunteering or donation, reach out to your Karma Concierge.
