Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot celebrates Diwali festival with children orphaned due to COVID at CM residence in Jaipur.

A portion of the Rajasthan chief minister's residence here turned into a game zone on Friday (October 21) as over 200 children who lost their parents to covid enjoyed fun activities and had lunch with Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.

CM Gehlot talked about their dreams, future plans and problems they are facing.

He also accompanied them to the game zone where a magic show and other fun activities were organised. The lunch included chowmein, pizza and several other delicacies.

A total of 231 children with their guardians were invited to the programme but a few could not come.

The Chief Minister said it was a Diwali programme with the children who lost parents to covid.

"I thought it appropriate to invite all such children on Diwali. It was amazing to see children having a good time here. I talked to them about their studies, career plans and other things. It was impressive that some of them want to become civil servants, some doctors and some want to join the police service," Mr Gehlot told reporters.

He said children were also given Diwali gifts. "They should feel respected," he said.

Children got photos clicked with the chief minister. They were also given bags with stationery items, sports kits and sweets.

Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra, Minister of Women and Child Development Mamta Bhupesh and several ministers were also present on the occasion.