On the evening of March 8, 2025, women from all walks of life gathered at the Calicut Beach — not just to mark International Women’s Day, but to reclaim a space that belongs to them as well. What began four years ago as a vision has grown into one of the most significant women’s empowerment initiatives in Kerala—Beach Beats, a flagship program of District 318E.
Under the leadership of District Governor Ramachandran K.V. and Vice Governors Ravi Gupta and Taitus Thomas, this year’s celebration carried special significance. Program Director Reeja Gupta and her team had expanded their mission beyond celebration to address pressing social issues, launching a comprehensive campaign against drug abuse in collaboration with Reporter TV. The event also saw Lions from all over Kerala coming together to celebrate the spirit of women.
The evening marked several firsts. For the first time in MD 318’s history, a live television broadcast ran uninterrupted for 90 minutes during prime time, reaching audiences across Kerala. The partnership with Reporter TV brought mainstream media attention to Lions International’s work, creating awareness about both women’s empowerment and the fight against drugs.
At Freedom Square, the multi-functional space commemorating all the historical movements for India’s freedom struggle, women gathered to redefine freedom in contemporary terms. The program’s four pillars—Fitness, Achievements, Compassion, and Empowerment—came alive through performances and demonstrations that showcased women’s strength and capability.
The evening featured a mesmerizing dance performance, the Singari Melam, performed by women drummers, and a Taekwondo demonstration by the No.1 Thunder Girls team. A Zumba session led by Team Vibe instructors brought together participants of all ages, creating moments of unity and shared energy.
Recognition played a central role in the evening’s program. The Woman Icon Awards honoured three women who have created meaningful change in their communities, while the Budding She Award celebrated a young woman whose potential shines bright for the future. Beach Beats New Voices Awards recognized emerging leaders within District 318E.
Beyond celebration, Beach Beats 2025 launched two service projects. The first provides aid to differently-abled women, while the second supports self-employment opportunities for single women, widows, and deserving breadwinners. During the event, wheelchairs, sewing machines, and financial assistance were distributed to beneficiaries, offering practical support for women to build independent lives.
The evening’s most impactful segment was the live debate on Reporter Channel, where Lion leaders engaged in a thought-provoking discussion about drug abuse with Dr. Arun Kumar, Chief Editor of Reporter TV. This 90-minute session addressed parents, teachers, and young people about the growing threat of drugs in communities.
The collaboration with Reporter TV represented more than media coverage—it demonstrated how service organizations can partner with mainstream media to address social challenges effectively.
As the evening concluded at 11 PM, participants left with a renewed understanding of what women’s empowerment means in practice—not just celebrating achievements, but creating opportunities, addressing challenges, and building support systems that allow women to thrive.
The waves that evening witnessed something special —a community coming together to support half its population while tackling issues that affect everyone.
Beach Beats has evolved from a single event into a sustained movement; one that continues to grow, year by year; creating spaces where women can stand confident, contribute meaningfully, and shape the communities they call home.