We still remember their sweet smiles and vibrant laughter. They came with pure intentions and left us with hope. On June 11th, the Boston community experienced a one-of-a-kind show for Ekal Vidyalaya’s annual event – Ekal Sur Ekal Taal. Tribal artists from Ekal villages presented this mega-musical event and shared stories about how Ekal brought transformation and change to their lives. This was also their way of expressing gratitude to thousands of donors who have supported Ekal for many years.

From early February to June, these ten artists toured over 70 locations around the US, traveling more than 25,000 miles. For some, they were stepping out of their village for the first time. While it was an exhilarating experience for US communities, it was surreal for the artists themselves. We called them ‘The Fab 10’: Natthi Amoli, Radheshyam, Sumitra, Neena, Priya, Johan Singh, Dileshwar, Sandip, Gitmala, and Tilak Chandra.

We received an opportunity to discuss the artists’ journeys during the event. One of the girls shared a moment when the Ekal cultural committee first approached her and said she was selected for this tour. After losing her father at a young age, her brother was worried about sending her to an unknown country, far away. Although her mother was supportive, he refused to let her go. For two days there was total chaos in the house; no one touched food, while she sobbed. In the end, her brother was persuaded and she took the bold step! They later focused on rigorous training in Delhi, and the rest is history, she says.

The artists had many interesting observations once they landed in the United States. Beyond being amazed by bare trees in winter to lush green terrains in spring, the group was touched by warm greetings extended even to strangers. Cleanliness was the next big thing. Each one said that they would bring this back with them; they would take steps to keep their villages clean. As humble as they are, they admitted how it was hard for them to sleep on beds, something they were not used to. Some would settle down on the hotel room’s floor for a good night’s sleep!

The young guys talked about discipline on the road in US. Even with hundreds of vehicles, there was limited honking and people followed the rules. They said it was worth a try to change mindsets back home, despite the challenges. They also visited SeaWorld in San Diego and it is difficult to explain their excitement about the theme park! Very innocently they said it was their first time seeing a humongous fish, the whale! They were even more amazed by how such an animal could be trained by humans. Reiterated in their own faith: where there is a will, there is a way.

The young girls were impressed by the amount of independent women in America. These women are driving school buses, training whales, and pursuing what they like. The artists said they felt so empowered, which gave them strength to stand up for themselves and take more responsibility when they returned.

As they became accustomed to life in the US, they laughed about how they had changed and would become a showpiece when they’d go back to their villages. The Fab 10 sent us beautiful and touching letters after reaching home. Their letters expressed how they were most grateful for all the love and respect they received from every US city they traveled to. For them, this was an unforgettable experience. But I think for all of us, we received a lot more love than we gave. The Ekal artists opened our eyes in many ways, from their simple nature, to magnanimous accomplishments. Coming from remote villages and humble backgrounds, they reiterated faith in what humans can achieve. And yes, the world can be made a better place.

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