'Happiness box' to spread cheer for underprivileged

While you indulge in a shopping spree before Durga puja, spread some cheer around for the underprivileged through the "Khushir Box" or "happiness box" donation initiative.

The unique donation campaign is targeted specifically at the forthcoming festive season.

Around 30 boxes will be installed in various puja pandals (marquees) in and around Kolkata, a fortnight before Durga puja, east India's biggest festival, starts on October 19.

"People willing to support the cause can donate clothes, bags, essential items for the winter season, books and dry foods. We will vacate the 'Khushir Box' once on October 12 and distribute your contributions and blessings among the people in need across the city and reinstall the box," said J.S. Roy of Ragemore events on Thursday.

He added no cash will be accepted.

Roy said the subsequent donations post-October 12 till puja days would be collected and distributed once again before Diwali.

In addition, if anyone anywhere in the country or world wishes to associate with the campaign, they can click "smilefies" or "selfies" with an underprivileged person who has been helped by the former.

"Share the same with all of us by using the hashtag #khushirbox. Your 'smilefie' will benefit the cause by not only motivating the others to follow your path but also can spread 'Khushir Box' to other locations," said Roy.

The project is a collaborative venture between Ardmore events, Ragemore and Rage of Youth.