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guruji The newly formed Shyamchi Aai Foundation launched its website www.shyamchiaai.org on Tuesday, to kick-start its initiative to mentor students and children from the weaker sections of society.

"The portal is a collective philanthropic endeavour by citizens, wherein interested people can come forward and register as members to mentor children who cannot to pay for their basic education or young adults from underprivileged backgrounds who are unable to find suitable jobs. Mentoring will involve paying their fees, evaluating their report cards and guiding them throughout, even in terms of higher education and career options," Sheetal Bapat, founder of Shyamchi Aai, said at a news conference on Tuesday.

The portal will provide a social networking platform to help build a community of concerned individuals who take up the responsibility of such children, said actor Raqesh Vashishta, the foundation's chief executive officer.

"We have already received good response from several citizens who want to be a part of this initiative and register on the portal. An in-house team comprising counsellors and other experts will be a part of the portal activities to guide the members whenever necessary," added Vashishta.

The foundation will also undertake other social initiatives in the near future, said Bapat. "We are in the process of networking with various non-governmental organisations and corporates for our portal. We plan to open study centres, reading halls, tuition classes and hostel facilities for deserving children," she said.

She added that the portal and the foundation derive their name from the eponymous book 'Shyamchi Aai', written by Sane Guruji, the publication of which has completed 75 years. "No donations will be accepted or given through the portal. Special assistance will be given to senior citizens supporting the cause. We will also help find suitable jobs for mentored children," added Bapat.

Sane Guruji's niece Sudhati Bodhe, and Madhav Vaze, who brought the character of Shyam to life in the book's cinematic adaption, are on the foundation's advisory board.

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