Sammohan 2025 – National Arts Festival for the Differently-Abled Begins in Grand Splendor
Thiruvananthapuram: The activities of the Different Art Centre, which prioritizes the holistic development of children with disabilities, serve as a model for the entire nation, said Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. He was inaugurating Sammohan 2025, the national arts festival for the differently-abled.
Different Art Centre is a model for the nation in the empowerment of differently-abled individuals – Governor
“Each child here is a beacon for society at large. Life need not be overshadowed by darkness; these children prove that they can write great stories of resurgence and triumph,” said the Governor. He noted that Sammohan has evolved into one of the most special events in life and praised the efforts of Gopinath Muthukad, renowned magician and founder of the Different Art Centre.
The Governor also revealed that he runs a school for children with disabilities in Goa, a statement that was met with loud applause from the audience.
Renowned filmmaker and patron of the Different Art Centre, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, presided over the event.
Around 200 differently-abled artists from states including West Bengal, Maharashtra, Delhi, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh are participating in the festival.
A musical evening led by the neurodivergent group from Delhi, Chayanith – The Chosen Ones, was a highlight of the event.
Through initiatives like Sammohan, the Different Art Centre is working towards creating an inclusive social and cultural environment by encouraging differently-abled artists.
The upcoming International Institute for People with Disabilities (IIPD) in Kasaragod aims to bring education, therapy, arts and sports training, and vocational skills for the differently-abled under one roof, and the energy and awareness generated by Sammohan 2025 will also boost its initiatives.
MLA Kadakampally Surendran, Gopinath Muthukad (Founder and Executive Director of the Different Art Centre), and Gigi Thomson (Chairman and former Chief Secretary) were also present at the event.
