Workshop on Making Masala Chai Was Held within the “Box of Courage” Project

As part of the “Box of Courage” project, a workshop on making masala chai was held on November 21, 2023. Its purpose was to acquaint Ukrainian students with the history and culture of India, and foreign students with the traditions of Ukraine. The guests were hosted by the library of Ternopil National Medical University. The initiators of this event were TNMU students – brothers Gurnish (IM-648) and Avnish (IM-536) Panesar, who have been actively participating in this charity project for several years in a row. The brothers interestingly told about Punjab, its traditions and delicacies.

They were supported by Ukrainian students. Nazarii Krulyk (MM-473) made a presentation “What struck me about India”. He showed the beauty of India, the wealth of its architecture and nature. Nazar also cited interesting facts, for example, a foreigner does not have the right to take the national currency out of the country, if he did not have time to spend it, he must donate it to the poor. Anhelina Lototska (MM-213) translated information from English into Ukrainian and involved foreign students in a quiz about Ukraine, Ternopil and our local dialect. Vaishali Setia (IM-331) prepared the quiz “How much do you know about India?”, in which Ukrainian students showed their knowledge.

Thanks to the songs of the members of the “TNMU Creative Team” Anastasia Slobodian (MM-304), Mykhailo Stavnychyi (TR-192) and Vadym Nevidomskyi (MM-611) the atmosphere of the evening was wonderful and relaxed.

The Panesar brothers not only prepared masala chai, but also spoke in detail about its beneficial properties, which are given to it by cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper. 1,729 hryvnias were collected for the tea sold and the charity lottery which was also held. These funds will traditionally be used to replenish the “Box of Courage” to support children in their fight against cancer, to make them smile after the treatment procedures.

We are grateful to all Ukrainian and foreign students for their active participation and contribution to the “Box of Courage”, Associate Professor Olena Pokryshko for her help in organizing the event, library director Olena Protsiv for her support and hospitality.