The thrill as the aircraft takes to the sky. The quiet pride at the sound of applause. The maiden flight and the debut performance—separate moments, unfolding in different places, yet linked by the same sense of arrival. During World Disability Week, Lions of Districts 318A and 318C made these experiences possible through two thoughtful initiatives.
One of these was Sargotsavam 2025 – Sparsham, organised by District 318A. The festival served as a platform for children with disabilities to showcase their talent in ten different events, from classical music and folk dance to mono-acting and poetry recitation. Having competed and conquered their stage fear, their inhibitions and the hearts of their audience, 240 first-place winners from 60 institutions across the Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts were present for the grand finale on December 6, 2025, at St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School, Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram.
Children with speech impairments, mobility limitations, and cognitive difficulties were accompanied by their teachers and parents. Members of various clubs of the district served as volunteers, ensuring their comfort throughout the day – from registrations at 8 a.m. to the close of competitions at 4 p.m. The event drew more than 1,200 people. Each child received a gift, while prizes were awarded to first, second, and third place winners across ten events. Trophies recognising overall performance by institutions and sub-districts added a sense of collective pride to individual achievement.
The inaugural session was presided over by District Governor Jain C. Job and inaugurated by noted film actor Karamana Sudheer. Multiple Council Secretary, (MD 318) James Valappila was the Chief Guest. A moment that stayed with many was the presence of Kumari Kanmani, a globally recognised young performer whose accomplishments, despite profound physical challenges, resonated deeply with participants and audiences alike.
The valedictory ceremony was inaugurated by renowned singer Kallara Gopan, who also presented awards to the winners. Vice District Governors Er. Anilkumar V and Adv. R.V. Biju, and several Past District Governors joined the celebrations. Organised in collaboration with Samagra Shiksha Kerala (SSK), the festival reflected a strong partnership between service organisations and the education system. The program was coordinated by S. Harikumar, whose leadership, supported by a large team of Lion volunteers, ensured the smooth conduct of the event.
A touch of magic
While Sparsham created a platform for expression and recognition, Lions of District 318C chose a different, but equally meaningful way to mark World Disability Day—with Snehayathra, a journey designed to offer wonder, confidence, and create new memories.
Thirty children with disabilities were taken on a special Indigo Airlines flight from Kochi to Thiruvananthapuram, many experiencing air travel for the first time. At the Thiruvananthapuram airport, the group was warmly received by PID R. Murugan, Second Vice District Governor R. V. Biju (318A), and members from local Lions Clubs, setting the tone for a day touched by magic.
The sense of wonder deepened as the children explored Gopinath Muthukad’s Magic Planet. This first-of-its-kind themed park seeks to preserve India’s street-magic heritage while promoting scientific thinking over superstition. The visit carried a larger purpose: within the park is the Different Art Centre, which empowers children with disabilities through arts education—from magic and music to dance and drawing—nurturing creative expression alongside confidence.
Conceived by District Governor K. B. Shine Kumar, the experience was made possible with the support of Airport Director Mr. G. Manu, BPCL Chief Manager Mr. Tharun, and Indigo Airlines Manager Ms. Chippy, whose cooperation ensured a seamless and joyful outing. Region Chairperson Davis coordinated the program with precision, while DCS, DCT, and Zonal Chairpersons Shaju and K. D. Thomas accompanied the children throughout the day.
Together, Sparsham and Snehayathra reflected two expressions of the same intent: to create spaces where children are seen for who they are, supported without condescension, and encouraged without condition. Whether on a stage, in an aircraft cabin, or amid the quiet astonishment of a magic show, these initiatives demonstrated what inclusion looks like when it moves from principle to practice.