Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 21: World Down Syndrome Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and inclusivity by Father Muller College of Physiotherapy through the annual event ‘EMBOLDEN 2026’ in the Father Muller Convention Centre, centred around this year’s theme, ‘Together Against Loneliness’, highlighting the importance of unity, compassion, and social inclusion.
The celebration witnessed the participation of over 300 children and 80 teachers from various special for the differently abled schools, truly reflecting a spirit of togetherness and shared joy. The program began with a vibrant cultural segment featuring dance performances by students from 14 special schools, showcasing their talent, creativity, and enthusiasm, and setting a joyful tone for the day.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, stalls showcasing handicrafts, including crochet work, flowers, and other creative items, were put up by the participating schools, highlighting the skills and abilities of the children.
The formal function commenced with the arrival of dignitaries, who were escorted to the dais by the organising secretary, Sainiguntla Ajaykumar. The dignitaries present included Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions; Leslie Ashok Noronha, proprietor, Elegant Distributors, Mangaluru; Gavin Mathias, CEO and managing director, Mathias Group; Dr Michael Santomayer, administrator, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy; Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, administrator, Father Muller Medical College Hospital; Fr Sylvester Vincent Lobo, administrator, Father Muller Hospital Thumbay; and Prof Cherishma D’Silva, principal, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy.
The welcome address was delivered by Prof Cherishma DSilva, who emphasized the importance of inclusion and collective responsibility in supporting individuals with Down syndrome.
The chief guest, Leslie Ashok Noronha, addressed the gathering with inspiring words, reflecting on his own life experiences and that of championing the cause of the differently abled. He felt elated on being part of such a gathering of talented children whose teachers and parents have put them in the path of self-reliance and self-respect.
Guest of honour, Gavin Mathias, who shared valuable insights and was also acknowledged for his generous support towards the event. Both dignitaries were honoured with mementos as tokens of appreciation.
The event also included the felicitation of judges who contributed to the cultural program and the recognition of all participating special schools for their dedication and active involvement. Representatives from each school were invited to receive mementos as a mark of appreciation.
The much-awaited prize distribution ceremony recognized outstanding performances, with Adamya Chetana Residential School, Bethany Jeevan Jyothi Special School, and Saanidhya Residential School and Training Centre emerging among the winners.
The presidential address was delivered by Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, who highlighted the importance of building a more inclusive and compassionate society. The human suffering is demolished by human love, thus triumph of love can lead to a diverse yet vibrant society.
The valedictory segment featured a graceful prayer dance performed by the children of St Agnes Special School, adding a serene and reflective element to the closing proceedings.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Sainiguntla Ajaykumar, acknowledging the efforts of all contributors, participants, sponsors, and organizers who made the event a grand success.
As a token of appreciation, goodie bags were distributed to all participating schools, bringing smiles to the children and marking a memorable end to the day. The celebration concluded with lunch for all attendees, fostering further interaction and togetherness.
The event was seamlessly compered by Abigail Job Paradesi and Sheetal Prabhu, whose engaging presence contributed to the smooth flow of the programme.
This is the 4th edition of EMBOLDEN in 2026 which stood as a powerful reminder that inclusion, acceptance, and respect must extend beyond a single day and become a part of everyday life. This outreach activity started by the faculty and students of the Father Muller College of Physiotherapy in 2022 post COVID to given happiness and share the joy of life among children sprouted EMBOLDEN. The day brings the child in every faculty and student alive to mingle and give.