A serene beautiful town, Aalo is nestled in the misty hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Life here moves at a glacial pace. The climate is unique yet challenging, with heavy downpours lasting 8 to 9 months of the year. These relentless rains often trigger landslides, cutting off access and isolating communities for extended periods. Reaching Aalo is a daunting journey in itself. Tucked away in a remote corner, it is accessible only by winding, rugged mountain roads that are frequently impacted by the weather. And that’s not all. Its proximity to the China border poses another challenge, as entry into certain areas requires special permits.
Amidst these challenges, Swamiji, a visionary leader from the Ramakrishna Mission School, initiated a multi-sports program to empower the children of the remote region, with the vision to offer holistic education. In collaboration with Sachin Tendulkar Foundation, Hi 5 Youth Foundation introduced its Hope Thru Hoops program, constructing an indoor basketball court there.
Under the guidance of Hi 5 coaches, the children gradually embraced the game; dribbling, taking shots, and believing in the sport. The court became a place of connection. It gave them something they never had before: a game that was new, exciting and safe from the rain. Basketball gave them more than a skill. It gave them courage to step outside their comfort zone, built trust, and fostered confidence.
In a place where basketball was virtually unknown, the children of Aalo faced yet another challenge: the fear of racism. Many families were hesitant to send their children to larger cities,fearing discrimination based on their appearance or dialect. This fear left a mark on the children, making them cautious, introverted, and reluctant to trust outsiders.
But as they began to travel for matches and meet players from other communities, they saw a world that wasn’t as harsh as they had feared. They met new people, exchanged experiences, and broke down pre-conceived notions. Racism, once a shadow, began to fade in the light of understanding and connection.
Though the championship titles still lie ahead, these children are a powerful reminder that no matter how tough your journey or how different you seem – you belong.
