Kids with special needs representing Goa left a distinct impression on audiences at Udaan, a cultural programme in Gujarat. Back home, they are part of a unique program at a special school in Vasco, that aims to give them the courage to carve their own niche in society
Life’s challenges can test and break the best. Now, imaginebeing born with a disability and still making a mark. When 20 kids of the NewDawn Ashadeep Special School Vasco performed in front of a large gathering inAhmedabad earlier this month it was the culmination of a very interestingjourney. The pin drop silence in the auditorium and the subsequent applause wasvindication of a system that has been doing commendable progress in the state.
“Ashadeep’s specialkids stepped out of Goa for the first time to participate and those whowitnessed their scintillating dance sequences were awestruck,” shares MamataHussain who has been working at the school for the last five years andpainstakingly trains them to express themselves through dance.
Mamta also takes a keen interest in upgrading the lives ofthe kids of all ages and making them feel accepted and comfortable in society.“It’s my mission and I shall keep doing this till the end,” shares Mamata, aninternational theatre artist, Kathak dance performer, a singer, a professionalteacher and a dance therapist. She has been working with the special childrenof Goa and all over India.
Udaan was attended by 60 differently abled child artistsfrom Maharashtra and Goa who presented various performances. “Our children putforth two scintillating performances depicting the folk dances of Goa. Weshowcased Goa’s rich cultural heritage. The dance was a fusion of communitiesin Goa with a pinch of the historical Portuguese culture dancing to the tunesof Voddecara and Portuguese Cha-Cha-Cha,” said Mamta.
“This was the firstouting and a unique experience for all these children as they travelled out ofGoa for the first time and performed remarkably well in front of a large audience,”shared a happy parent.
