Bhubaneswar: The second evening of the silver jubilee edition of the Anjali International Children’s and Youth Festival was held at Kala Bhoomi here Friday, celebrating children’s talent, creativity, courage and spirit of inclusion. The evening featured the distribution of Anjali scholarships, felicitation of participating teams from different states, the release of the camp bulletin and colourful cultural performances. Festival director Shruti Mahapatra, along with several distinguished guests, attended the programme.
In her address, Mahapatra highlighted the objectives of the festival, the inherent potential of children and the importance of building an inclusive society. She also emphasised the need to recognise children’s abilities and provide them with equal opportunities. Polly Patnaik, Sangeeta Gosain, Elina Mahapatra and CMRD Ajay Patnaik also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of nurturing children’s capabilities and confidence.
On the occasion, Anjali scholarships were presented to Bunu Behera, Shankar Sahu, Pushpanjali and Sonu Shubham. Teams representing Assam, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and other regions were felicitated for their participation. The release of the camp bulletin was followed by cultural performances by participants from different states, adding colour and enthusiasm to the celebrations. The inter-school competitions held as part of the festival saw students creatively convey the message of an inclusive society. Five schools participated in a poster competition themed ‘From Ideation to Pitching’.
The poster titled ‘Beyond Differences, United in Equality’ by Science National School highlighted human potential and equality beyond physical differences. In the Creative Kids Art Challenge, students of Mother’s Public School prepared four posters. Led by Shubham Patnaik, students of Classes VIII and IX illustrated their vision of an ideal school where every child would have equal opportunities. Through illustrations of ramps and resource rooms, they highlighted the need for accessible and welcoming educational spaces for children with disabilities. The third day of the festival, coinciding with Children’s Day Saturday, will feature a range of activities for children and young people.
Kala Bhoomi will take on a Halloween-themed look, with games, entertainment, fun-filled activities and special surprises planned for young visitors. The organisers aim to make Children’s Day celebrations enjoyable and memorable through these special attractions. The four-day festival will conclude with an excursion to Puri and Konark on the final day. Marking 25 years of service and dedication, the silver jubilee edition of Anjali continues to provide a platform for children to celebrate their talents, happiness, courage and the spirit of inclusion.
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