No cake, no sugary treats, no plastic decorations: A unique bacha birthday party that celebrated health

MANGALURU: At a time when birthdays often mean balloons, plastic decor, and cakes, a family in Mangaluru chose a different path. They celebrated health, nature, and conscious living.On the occasion of the birthdays of baby Kshirsha turning one and Moksha turning ten, parents Reshma and Lakshmikant wanted to do more than just throw a party. They wanted the celebration to reflect the values they hold dear: mindful eating and love for the environment, said environmentalist Jayaprakash Ekkur.Jayaprakash, who curated the birthday celebration, said that the venue, Lions Ashoka Seva Bhavana in Kadri, was transformed into a space of joy, meaning, and inspiration on July 5. He told TOI: There was no cake, no sugary treats, no plastic decorations. Instead, the highlight of the event was a unique ritual where 16 children each dropped a nutritious item, fruits, dry fruits, seeds, and greens into a large bowl, symbolically creating a wholesome offering. The entire offering was distributed to all the guests. This act beautifully replaced the traditional cake-cutting and emphasised the importance of healthy choices from a young age, he said.

The venue was adorned with natural flowers and coconut shells, and the entrance made of woven palm fronds greeted guests. Every element, from decor to food, was thoughtfully curated to ensure zero waste. Not a single plastic spoon, paper cup, or disposable plate was used. Even the drinking water was served in tumblers.