Tsunami kids chase Delhi dreams

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New Delhi: Two years back, when the deadly tsunami struck India's southern coast, several Good Samaritans stepped in to help the affected people. Among them was the National Tennis Academy, which adopted and brought 12 homeless boys to Delhi.

From the beaches of Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the pool tables of the national capital, these ocean's 12 have come a long way from their tsunami-devastated home, and right now, each one of them is hoping to make the most of this opportunity that has come their way."

"On December 26, 2004, tsunami came. It caused devastation to our homes. My home was completely washed away. The government sent us here. So we can make our future," Ishwar Rao, just 13, recalls.

Till two years back, 13-year-old Ishwar had never touched a tennis racket. Today, the game has helped heal the scars left by the wave of disaster. And he is now preparing to be "a tennis player like Roger Federer".

"Principal ma'am brought us jackets. Gave us Rs 1,000 to buy whatever we wished from the mall," Md Yassir would narrate.

Thousands of miles away from their homeland, the humble Nicobarians are taken in by the metroplolitan ways, but nothing can make up for their home sweet home. "We had those beautiful beaches. We used to swim in the sea. And the coconut trees we used to climb..." Ishwar just cannot get over it.

So, does the thought of going back ever occur to them? "No. I can't go back, because I have to make my future. I can't do anything there. I won't get a job. So, I'll stay here only, study and play tennis," Ishwar says matter of factly.