What is ESA day? All you need to know about Mumbai Indians' special occasion on April 7

The ESA day was first introduced in 2010 and since then it has been followed every year in the IPL by MI.

The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai witnessed a special moment during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 7. The Mumbai franchise celebrated ESA (Education and Sports for All), which the franchise proudly wears on the sleeves of all their teams.

ESA is a key initiative by Reliance Foundation, the CSR arm of Reliance Industries Limited, and a critical part of the MI’s social responsibility commitment. Championed by Nita M. Ambani’s vision, ESA Day has become a cherished tradition for the team. Their aim is to inspire young minds and promote the values of education and sports among children’s.

What is ESA Day?

The ESA day was first introduced in 2010 and since then it has been followed every year in the IPL by the Mumbai-based franchise to provide life-changing opportunities to thousands of children. Reliance Foundation through ESA carried out various activities in the education and sports arena. The Foundation has impacted over 22 million children across India.

In IPL 2024, the five-time champions donned the their ESA t-shirts against Delhi in match 20 of the tournament. The children, who are accompanied by 2000 volunteers and with 500 best buses will be with them throughout the whole day. MI gave chance to more than 18,000 children, including 200 children with special needs, who are from different NGOs from across the Mumbai city to watch IPL match against Delhi at their home ground.

The ESA supports various NGOs from across the city. The children’s living in various NGOs like – Aarambh, Angel Xpress, Aseema, CRY, Door Step School, Humana People to People India, Jai Vakeel Foundation, Meljol, Mumbai Mobile Crèches, OSCAR Foundation, Pragati Holistic Development Trust, Pratham, Robinhood Army, Shishu Vikas School, Spark A Change, Tarun Mitra Mandal, Teach for India, Ummeed, Vacha, 321 Foundation witnessed the IPL 2024 match between MI and DC.

“It’s always exciting to see 18,000 kids coming to the ground: MI captain Hardik Pandya on ESA games

MI skipper Hardik Pandya expressed that he loves atmosphere when 18,000 or more kids come to the ground and cheer for the Mumbai franchise.

“It’s always exciting to see 18,000 kids coming to the ground and cheering for us and Mumbai Indians. We’ll be looking to make their day, hopefully with a win. I feel very privileged to be a part of these games and influence their life in a small way,” Hardik said.

The story of each and every kid who will we be there at the stadium is inspiring: MI opener Rohit Sharma

Former MI captain Rohit Sharma opened up that every children who comes and witnessed the match has a story as they live a difficult life. Rohit added that he is impressed with the work being put by the Reliance Foundation for bringing smiles on their faces.

“The story of each and every kid who will we be there at the stadium is inspiring. They have a difficult life. Really impressed with the work being put in by Reliance Foundation and Mrs Ambani for giving the children what they need. I have been fortunate enough to hear some of these kids’ stories in the past and I know exactly what they have been through. Coming to the stadium and watching the game can bring a lot of smiles on their faces. It is our duty and responsibility that they go back home with happiness on their face,” Rohit added.

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