Aajtalkss,Kolkata, February 1, 2026 (Sunday):
Kolkata witnessed a powerful celebration of resilience and inclusion as Aashayein – Roshni Umeedon Ki returned with its 12th Annual Paralympics Sports Carnival, bringing together nearly 800 specially-abled children from 40 schools and institutions across the city. Organised by the Lions Club of Calcutta (District 322B1) in association with Round Table India (RT 113) and Ladies Circle India (LC 132), the day-long event was held at the Gitanjali Stadium Ground.
Designed to promote dignity, confidence and equal opportunity, the carnival featured inclusive sporting events such as 50-metre and 100-metre races, ball throw and shot put. All competitions were conducted under the supervision of trained officials from the Sodepur Referee Association to ensure safety, fairness and professional standards.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by senior police officials and distinguished guests, including Devendra Prakash Singh, IPS, Additional Commissioner of Police, Kolkata Police, and Rupesh Kumar, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Kolkata Police. CA Pawan Kumar Patodia, Vice President, Special Olympics Bharat, was present as the Special Guest and interacted with participants, volunteers and organisers.
Proceedings began with a ceremonial march past, followed by flag hoisting and a balloon release. Beyond sports, the venue hosted a vibrant fun carnival zone with magicians, jugglers, character artists and interactive performers, while volunteers ensured smooth coordination and participant support throughout the day.
Each child received breakfast, lunch, event T-shirts, jackets, caps and specially curated gift hampers, reinforcing the focus on participation and inclusion rather than competition alone. Addressing the gathering, Lion Krishan Gopal Kejriwal, President of the Lions Club of Calcutta, said the initiative celebrates courage and self-belief, while Aashayein 2026 Chairman Lion Prasant Jaiswal highlighted the collective effort of institutions, volunteers and community partners behind the event.
Now in its 12th year, Aashayein continues to be one of the Lions Club of Calcutta’s most impactful outreach programmes, reflecting Kolkata’s enduring tradition of compassion, community service and inclusive growth.
