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Jan 26th 2001
 AHMEDABAD, India, January 26, 2001 -" India's Republic day celebrations turned into a day of national mourning as the worst earthquake in 50 years rocked the western and northern parts of the subcontinent early this morning. The 30 second quake, measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale, has claimed the lives of more than 1,000 people and left thousands of others seriously injured." This was "news" last year. The year Bhuj hit the headlines for more than her cultural heritage. For a disaster that claimed and transformed lives forever. And not only in negative ways.
Republic day, last year, saw the coming together of the nation as one large heart - one strong pair of hands and one fine will - to help and restore some semblance of normalcy in a devastated land.
Millions came forth to help - with financial aid, communication, physical and moral support. Material, medicine and most importantly, food, clothing and rebuilt shelters.
Today, there are still many NGOs, voluntary organisations, volunteers, government machinery - all various names for "human beings" - engaged in projects that will bring life back to a land ravaged by Nature's unfair fury.
This Republic day, let us remember, with gratitude, all those who have helped stopped the tremors of fear and anguish. People of this country. People of the world.
Remembering, on this great day, all the great hearts that dwell in this world.
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