Post News Network
Bhubaneswar, April 11: Around 50 schoolchildren from the twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack were busy making art out of waste at a workshop organised here with a view to blurring the lines between ‘normal’ and physically challenged children Saturday.
At the workshop, students were given discarded paper cups and were asked to paint it with colours given to them. The students enthusiastically went about painting the cups in a wide variety of hues.
The workshop was organised by Swabhiman, a trust that works for the rights of the differently-abled.
“The main objective of the event was to create awareness on the rights of physically challenged students. We invited both normal and differently-abled children on purpose as we wanted to bring them together and create a bond. We got an overwhelming response, and the children fully enjoyed themselves with the assignments that were given to them,” said Swadha Khatua, Swabhiman project officer.
The day-long workshop also witnessed competitions like Origami and an art installation of their works on the walls, which was greatly cheered by the students.
“We provided the kids with paints, brushes, cups and a platform to paint their imagination. The students really loved working among themselves. They were buzzing about with their assignments in a cheerful, happy manner. We were ready at hand with help whenever they needed any. The response we garnered from them and their parents was really encouraging,” said Manas Ranjan Khamari, coordinator of the event.
Several friendships were made in the course of the workshop. Some of them formed groups and chatted away excitedly on a range of topics while simultaneously working on their assignments. “I love painting. I really enjoyed the work I was given. I used yellow paint to fill the colour in white cups to make them look beautiful. I felt great after coming here and also to be able to meet so many children,” said Sibhunshu Swayan Pragyam, a student of DAV Pokhariput.
“I’ve always enjoyed participating in art competitions such as this. Making art with paint brushes gives me a feeling of satisfaction. Even in school, I like drawing classes the most and also make some drawings at home. I loved taking part in this workshop as I got a chance to make many new friends,” another student from Vijayan School said.