CHENNAI: Pictures of happy children with disabilities and testimonials of the work done by Shakti foundation are some of the things we notice when we enter their office in Kilpauk.
Known for its annual fundraiser event, the foundation is gearing up for its 27th fundraiser — Gurudeva and City Express talks to Vasanth Raghuvir, mother of Velan (inspiration for the foundation), to know more about their journey, their present goals and the fundraiser.
Vasanth opines that the ‘pity factor’ towards persons with disabilities (PwD) is slowly fading away. “Between last year and this year, we have been seeing that, many PwDs are getting good job placements. That’s a good thing as these opportunities enhance self-esteem, and taking a pay check back home is just great for them,”she shares.
As the private sector becomes more inclusive of PwDs she says that accessible toilets and travel pickups have also become common.
“Another perceptible advancement is that a lot of young PwDs have got married to able-bodied persons. They share work, run a home and also work. Acceptance is slowly growing in the society,” she adds.
Several renowned artists have put their foot forward in being a part of the fundraiser in the last two decades, and Vasanth shares, “I am humbled by all these artists who have been a part of Shakti so far. They empower children in the foundation and it’s extremely gracious of them to do so.”
This year, two celebrated artistes — Zakir Hussain and Niladri Kumar will be presenting some soul stirring music, vouches Vasanth. Her association with Zakir goes back to the 2000s when he performed for a fundraiser at Shakti, amid a family tragedy. “Zakir did not cancel his performance despite what he was going through. Everything went according to the plan and there was no hassle. He played…for the cause, for the children despite all that. That’s the man he is!” recalls Vasanth and adds, “This is the first time we’ll be having Niladri at Shakti and I am looking forward to his music.”
Music is a predominant feature in most of their events including the famous Children’s Day celebration.
Apart from the proceedings going to various causes the organisation crusades for, a predominant share will be for endoscopy procedures/instruments, including that of paediatric endoscope for the rural underprivileged. “Health care for the rural underprivileged is not readily accessible and they don’t have the means. We want to focus on the section of society that is struggling and contribute towards the process of making such instruments and procedures accessible to them,” she explains.
When does she think inclusivity will become a word of the past for PWD’s? “In about two years I would say. Might seem like a short time…but with more private bodies advocating inclusivity and lending their support to such causes, we can achieve it in a span of two years,” she adds.
Zakir Hussain and Niladri Kumar will be performing at the Music Academy as part of the fundraiser on February 11 at 7 pm. For details contact: 04426611213