Bhubaneswar: Anjali should continue for another 60 years, said OrissaPOST and Dharitri Editor Tathagata Satpathy, as the 25th Anjali International Children and Youth Festival drew to a close at Kala Bhoomi here Saturday, marking a quarter-century of celebrating inclusion, compassion and the extraordinary abilities of children with disabilities.
Addressing the valedictory ceremony, Satpathy described Anjali founder Sruti Mohapatra as his role model, praising her exceptional spirit of love, dedication and compassion. He urged the organisers to carry forward the movement for generations to come. In an emotional address, Mohapatra revealed that she had contemplated bringing the festival to an end after completing 25 years.
However, a suggestion from her Guru prompted her to rethink the decision and envision a much larger future for Anjali. She said the movement must transcend Bhubaneswar and reach a global audience over the next 50 to 100 years.
The broader vision, she added, is to spread the message of love through communication in four languages. Vice-president and CEO of Mirae Asset Investment Manager, Swarup Anand Mohanty urged children to respect the dignity of labour and cultivate the habit of consistent hard work.
Founder and CEO of Curebay, Priyadarshi Mohapatra, observed that Anjali had evolved into something much bigger than a festival, with purpose and commitment driving its success. The Mitali Raj awards were presented on the occasion. Mother’s Public School received honours for the best inclusive one-act play and best film. Students, resource persons and organisations from various districts were also felicitated.
The festival ended on an emotional note, with children, volunteers and organisers exchanging tearful farewells and promises to reunite. IFS officer Padma Mohanty, actress Archita Sahu and Swabhiman president Nivedita Scudder were among those present.
The concluding celebrations featured vibrant performances by artists from Madhya Pradesh, Kendujhar, Assam and Jammu and Kashmir. Children also showcased their workshop learnings through songs, dance and tabla recitals.