Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Jan 31: The district-level “Hejje Sambrama” programme, organised by First Step Trust (R) for the fourth consecutive year, was inaugurated successfully at the Town Hall, Ajjarkad, Udupi, under the inspiring theme “Don’t show sympathy, give us opportunities.”
Addressing the gathering, Ajay P Shetty, proprietor, White Lotus Hotel, Udupi, said that “These children are special because of their abilities and talents. In Sanatana Dharma, all children are considered important. I pray to Lord Krishna to bless every child with strength and opportunities”.
Kamalaksha Kamath, auditor, Bahrain - Karkala in his address said that “When you are at your lowest, remember that God loves you the most. Special children are deeply loved by God. Continuous communication with children helps us understand their emotions. Along with emotional support, they need opportunities. Events like this build confidence and make them unstoppable. With love, life’s journey becomes beautiful, and they can grow into creative and productive citizens of India,” he added.
Akshatha Rao, founder of First Step Ladies Fitness & Kids Dance Studio and First Step Trust (R), Udupi, said that “Initially, I could reach only three to four schools, though more than 15 schools existed. Today, children from all these schools are participating confidently. This programme is successful because of the collective support we received from all people and I thank them”.
Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna, speaking on the occasion, said that "God has created everyone equally and society should treat everyone the same. Akshatha is doing commendable work. Udupi is a cultural hub, and everyone deserves equal opportunities. I extend my full support to this initiative in future also".
Addressing the gathering, Udupi district superintendent of Police Hariraam Shankar said "I thank parents, staff, schools, and NGOs for standing by special children. This programme is nothing less than a festival for these students such large gathering shows the importance of our support to these talented kids"
The programme was formally inaugurated by the lighting of the lamp accompanied by traditional chande. The celebration showcased the talents of special students from 15 special schools across the district.
Teachers and staff of special schools who contributed significantly to the growth and development of special children were honoured. Chaitra, a special child, was felicitated for preparing 350 handmade rakhis and bracelets. Gifts were given to all participants who performed on the stage.
The event was graced by Dinesh Kodavoor, principal, Karkala Jnanasudha, Ganit Nagar; Ravindra H, president, District Special Teachers and Non-Teaching Staff Association; Kanthi Harish, president, Karnataka State Special Teachers and Non-Teaching Staff Association, Bengaluru; Agnes Kunder, honorary president of the association.
The competitions were judged by Santhosh S Kumar and Praveen Nellikatte. Anurag Nayak offered the prayer and Jyoti Saligrama compered the programme.