Abhista Charitable Trust—an organization dedicated to the welfare of individuals with Intellectual Impairments, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), along with their parents and caregivers—hosted a vibrant Inclusive Talent Show at the ongoing International Trade Fair at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar.
The event featured dynamic performances by over 40 children and teenagers with intellectual disabilities. The young participants captivated the audience with their artistic talents across diverse disciplines, including classical and modern dance, vocal music, instrumental music performance, yoga demonstrations, and live painting. Students from various local schools and institutions also joined the event to show solidarity and promote societal inclusion. The captivated audience lauded the participants’ remarkable skills and energy.
Speaking on the occasion, organizers and guest speakers emphasized that neurodivergent individuals have an equal right to enjoy and thrive in society. To foster true inclusion, speakers highlighted the urgent need to integrate vocational training and skill development programs into schools and colleges, alongside building supportive, adaptable work environments.
The conference also shed light on the emotional and physical challenges faced by parents and primary caregivers. Key discussions focused on the urgent need for robust long-term care plans, guardianship protocols, and legal frameworks to ensure the safety, dignity, and care of individuals with special needs in the absence of their parents.
The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including Surama Padhy, Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Babu Singh, MLA, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar, Priyadarshi Mishra, Former MLA, Dr. Biswa Ranjan Mishra, Head of the Department of Psychiatry, AIIMS Bhubaneswar, Chandana Das, Member, Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR), Mihir Sahu, Chartered Accountant, Biyat Pragnya Tripathy, Renowned Filmmaker, Rozalin Patasani Mishra, Prominent Social Activist, Dr. S. Ravi Kumar, Eminent Author, Rashmita Prusty, Director, Wonder World Water Park, and Eli Padhi, Founder & Chairperson, Abhista Charitable Trust.
The organizers extended their heartiest gratitude to Sujit Gupta and Payal Acharya Gupta of Gupta Event Management for hosting and supporting the event within the International Trade Fair setup.
