Kathmandu:

Sixteen pairs of eyes focused on the television screen as Aladdin struggled to overcome the forces of evil. A cheer erupted as the hero vanquished his foes...and it was time to eat... another good reason to cheer!

Every Saturday morning the children in Lazimpat make it a point to set aside some time for a trip to Sal’s Pizza where they are treated to a feature-length film and a helping of Sal’s delicious pizza. “We started the programme to help repay the community for the support they have given our restaurant,” said Salim Khan, owner-manager and namesake for the pizzeria. “At first we only got children from our neighbourhood, but now other kids have discovered us and it’s getting pretty crowded.”

Sal’s has been able to cover the expenses of the increased attendance because of sponsorship assistance from members of the local community.

“We thought it was wonderful that Sal’s was doing this for the kids,” said Jane Prendy, an English language teacher at the British Council.

Prendy and her husband Rishi Kunwar of Speak International, a local English/Nepali language school, were so enthused with the programme that they took it upon themselves to solicit contributions from other members of the business community. Their efforts have made it possible for Sal’s to continue the free programme despite the steadily growing attendance.

But to the children from the Supporting Helpless Child Development orphanage, it hardly matters who is paying for their Saturday morning treat.

“We just like to come down and see the movies,” said Kaviraj, one of the orphanage’s

regulars. “I really thought that The Incredibles was great.”

“My favourite was Finding Nemo,” gushed Biku KC, one of Sal’s earliest devotees.

Sal’s does have a fairly large collection of children’s favourites. While many of the films are animated features, the collection also includes many non-animated classics such as ET the Extraterrestrial, Oliver and Peter Pan.

Of course, for some of the children it doesn’t matter what flick happens to be showing. “I just love the pizza!” piped up little Umesh.

For lip-smacking pizza, dial 9803249498, 2161718.