A unique fair dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, known as Divyang, is set to take place in Mangaluru this weekend. The event, organized by Asha Jyothi, a unit of Seva Bharathi, aims to highlight hidden talents and foster self-reliance.
A Platform for Abilities and Information
The Vishishtarigagi Vishishta Mela will be held at Canara High School in Dongerkery on Sunday. This annual initiative, run by a forum comprising specially-abled children and their parents, has been a fixture for several years. The core mission of the mela is to bring out the capabilities of those with special needs, provide skill training, and guide them towards greater independence.
Geetha Laxmish, president of Asha Jyothi, emphasized the event's significance. She stated that while the gathering started small decades ago, the 2025 edition saw participation from over 2,800 people, including 1,200 Divyang individuals and 1,600 other members. "The main aim is to create an environment for the participation of Divyangs and their parents, and also their teachers. Otherwise, they have no such opportunity at all," Laxmish told reporters.
Key Services and Highlights
The mela will serve as a crucial resource center, offering vital information on government schemes and certificates. Attendees can learn about:
- The documents required to apply for the central government's UDID Card for Divyang.
- The process to obtain a Legal Guardianship Certificate.
- Details about the Niramaya Health Card for persons with autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities.
Additionally, the 'Sakshama' initiative will provide information on eye donation and broader empowerment avenues for the Divyang community. The day will be packed with activities, including songs, dances, and competitions for the participants. Parents will also have dedicated entertainment and competitive events.
Dignitaries and Recognition
The event will be inaugurated by Prof Shantharama Shetty, pro-vice-chancellor of Nitte (Deemed to be University) and founder of Tejaswini Hospital. Raghavendra S Bhat, MD and CEO of Karnataka Bank, and Krishna Hegde, GGM (Human Resources) at MRPL, Mangaluru, will grace the occasion as chief guests.
A highlight of the mela will be the felicitation of seven Divyang student achievers, recognizing their accomplishments and inspiring others. Secretary S Ravindra Kudva also mentioned a recent successful tour organized for Divyangs and their parents, which saw participation from around 190 individuals, including teachers and volunteers.
This mela stands as a testament to the sustained efforts of Seva Bharathi, which has been working in the social sector for the past 34 years, continually creating inclusive spaces for the Divyang community in Mangaluru and beyond.
