Christmas carnival puts spotlight on inclusion, community participation

A Christmas carnival, at a Janak Puri special education centre, brought together students, families and visitors for a day of inclusive celebrations on Thursday. The event, hosted in the spirit of World Disability Day observed globally on December 3, featured winter themed activities and interactive sessions aimed at encouraging participation and showcasing the abilities of children.

Students also set up stalls, displaying handmade Christmas goodies created by them. Founder Tanu Rajput said, “Celebrating this day with our children was truly heart-warming. Their enthusiasm and energy filled the entire space with happiness. I feel grateful to be sharing such a meaningful and festive moment with them. It makes me so proud of my kids, who are special but no less than anyone, they are talented, smart and extremely kind and loving.”

According to the organisers, around 125 children on the autism spectrum and over 90 students from lower income groups are supported at the centre on a daily basis.

They added that more than 5,000 families have received assistance through the organisation since 2009, and efforts are underway to develop income generation avenues for students trained in various skills.

The gathering brought together parents, caregivers and community members, marking a day of shared celebration and awareness around inclusion.