Rotary Event in Guinness Book of World Record

An opportunity of a rare kind was presented to the talented children of the city schools in Chennai recently when the Rotarian of RC Madras Central, RI District 3230, along with one of the large commercial complex in the city, Abirami Mega Mall hit upon an idea to conduct a painting contest for them. This contest was made all the more interesting and unique when the convener, PDG Ramanathan and the Chairman, Rtn. Dr. P. Srinivasan suggested to create a record and make an entry into the Guinness World Records and Limca Book of Records by hosting the biggest ever painting contest with the largest number of participants.

Registration forms were sent out to various schools to enable the students participate in the remarkable event. Contacts were established with the Guinness Company in the UK to take their guidance and concurrence. The sprawling M A Chidambaram Stadium, the Mecca of cricket at Chennai was chosen as the venue for conducting the competition and the theme was based on a homage to the Father of our Nation and the champion of non-violence and peace, Mahatma Gandhi and the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Shri. C N Anna Durai.

On the D-Day a record 20,000 students from private and corporation schools trooped in at the venue. The enthusiasm of the differently- abled children also needs a special mention here and over 200 such children participated. This noteworthy event was flagged off by the Mayor of Chennai, Shri. M Subramaniam.

The dedication and the perseverance of the Rotarians of RC Madras Central and their spouses and the staff of Abirami Mega Mall in taking care of even the minute details helped paint a wonderful picture of the club on the canvas of Rotary International for the club is the first in the history of Rotary to enter the book of World Records.

To Read the complete article refer to Rotary News-May 2010 (Regional rotary magazine published from India).