AMY GOODMAN: As we wrap up the program, in Bombay, where the World Social Forum has gotten underway, we only have a minute, we’re joined on the phone by Vidhi Parthasarathy. Who is an independent reporter there. Hello, Vidhi, we have one minute. Please tell us how this first day of the world social forum has gone?

VIDHI PARTHASARATHY: Hi, Amy. It’s just, of course, you know, thousands of groups are coming in. There’s thousands of groups out here representing such a diverse strata of society and social issues. From all over India and all over the world. And there’s people just pouring in. Yeah, that’s what I can say.

AMY GOODMAN: And this is the first time it’s in India for the last few years–it began in Brazil and that’s where it has taking place. The reaction in India?

VIDHI PARTHASARATHY: That’s right. That’s right. This is the first time it’s kind of moved from, I think, the west into east. And, I mean, just that connection is just — you know, —- one can see the overwhelming effects already on the ground here. There’s all kinds of groups. I traveled from Bangor to Bombay with the 140 children who were bonded laborers or slave laborers who have been freed. They have come to perform, and -—

AMY GOODMAN: Vidhi, we are going to have to leave it there, but we will continue to talk you to next week to find out how the World Social Forum goes. That does it for the program. Democracy Now! Our web about site, democracynow.org. Looking forward to seeing people in Wakesfield, Vermont tonight at the Eclipse theater.