Mangaluru: Saanidhya Residential School and Training Centre for Specially Abled and the District Youth Congress, Dakshina Kannada jointly organised a two-day state-level folk dance competition. ‘The Special Talent Hunt- 2015’, at Town Hall here on December 8.
Prior to the programme, a procession was held from the Milagres church compound culminating at the Town Hall. Minister for Environment, Forest and Ecology B RamanathRai, inaugurated the programme by lighting the traditional lamp along with other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Ramanath Rai said, “It is difficult for us to understand the pain these special children go through so also it is difficult for them to express their pain to us. There are several issues the society needs to address and I am proud that the District Youth Congress has organised this event. I hope people recognize the talents of these special children and treat them with utmost respect and care,” he added.
The District Youth Congress president, Mithun Rai said, “Special children are closest to god.” Events like these prove that if one has the desire to do something then everything is possible, he added.
Prof. Gopinath, retired lecturer of Canara College said that the pain, the children have gone through to perfect their performance was commendable.
Speaking to mangalorean.com, Sr Cherapushpum MSMI, caretaker from Asha Sadhan Special School, Mandya said, “Such events are important to identify the talents in the children and encourage them so that they can grow with confidence. These special children have more abilities, they are usually denied any opportunity to showcase their talents.”
Administrator of Saanidhya, Vasanth Kumar Shetty said that various competitions like ‘Prathiba Karanji’ and other competitions are being held at the district level by the institution. But the government had not taken any initiative to conduct such competitions for the special children.
Prof. Krishna from Ganesh Seva Trust for Exceptional Persons delivered the vote of thanks.
The competition will conclude on December 9 at the Town Hall. Cash prizes with trophies and certificates will be given to the winners.
Former Mayor Mahabala Marla, Agnes Kunder the president of Karnataka RajyaVishesha Shikshakara Hagu Shikshaketharara Sangha and other dignitaries were also present.
