Few take school plays and activities seriously, much less participate in them. But one such activity at school magnified Bulbul’s love for acting.

 

Bulbul Deka, a fifteen-year-old boy studying in class 10 of Tetelia High School, Guwahati, dreams about being a Bollywood actor. “My favourite actor is Amir Khan,” says Bulbul. “My teachers at school once played ‘Lagaan’ (an Indian movie) in the class. Everyone seemed so happy and excited watching the movie. That was the first time I had seen everyone dancing together in class. That is why I decided to become an actor and do movies that bring joy to people’s lives.” Bulbul added.

 

During the annual day celebrations at Bulbul’s school, he was shortlisted to perform in the school play. Bulbul performed the role of Bhagat Singh for the final round where he even sang patriotic songs to support his role. 

 

Having learnt about Bhagat Singh in school, Bulbul was inspired by his fearlessness and love for the country. Bulbul says he will never forget the day when everyone gave him a standing ovation for his performance as Bhagat Singh. After such an emotional event, Bulbul’s aspiration of becoming an actor and inspiring millions became even stronger.

 

However, behind the scenes lies Bulbul’s life of hardship. His father left him and his family a year ago, after which his mother suffered a mental breakdown. She is currently under treatment. "She is fine now. But if she does not take the medicines on time, she may be unwell again,” says Bulbul. 

 

Despite the difficulties, as an additional income, Bulbul’s mother stitches clothes whenever she feels well . After returning from school, Bulbul helps his mother deliver the stitched clothes to their owners. 

 

Bulbul’s mother expresses her grief at her inability to cook healthy meals for her children. “My daughter finishes all the housework before leaving for school while my son fetches water after waiting for hours at the nearby hand pump. My children have devoted their lives to my care and yet, I cannot even cook a single meal for them,” grieves Bulbul’s mother.

 

Even for Bulbul, ‘Mother’s love’ is the most important thing and the lack of her food upsets him as she is not stable enough to cook. However, he continues to enjoy the mid-day meals served at school. 

 

“Since my mother is not with me and my elder sister finds it hard to cook, Akshaya Patra’s food is very important to me. I like rice and aloo subzi the most,” says Bulbul. “The meals fill me up with energy and help me take care of my mother after I reach home,” adds Bulbul.

 

 

• I want to be an actor to bring smiles on people's faces.

• I love to play inspiring characters like that of Bhagat Singh.

• The aloo subzi from Akshaya Patra tastes just like my mother's.

• I'll never forget the day when everyone gave me a standing ovation for my performance as Bhagat Singh.

• I love Akshaya Patra's meals as it helps me take care of my mother.