Srinagar: In a moving celebration of patriotism and determination, students from two schools for the specially-abled united to perform the national anthem in sign language — a first-of-its-kind initiative — on the 79th Independence Day in the city on Friday.
Students from Abhinandan Home School, Rambagh, and Voluntary Medical Society, Bemina, gathered at the Shri Pratap Museum for an event hosted by the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums. The celebration aimed to highlight inclusivity as part of the Independence Day festivities.
Among the participants were children with speech and hearing impairments, visual impairments, and other physical challenges. Praising their efforts, Director of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, K.K. Sidha, described them as “living examples” of resilience, having overcome personal barriers to carve out their place in society.
“Our aim was to make the programme unique and inclusive. We decided to invite a section of society that often remains on the margins. These students may face different challenges, but their enthusiasm for Independence Day matches ours,” Sidha said.
The highlight of the event was the rendition of the national anthem in Indian Sign Language — a symbolic lesson in perseverance and unity. Sidha stressed the need for greater societal sensitivity and equal opportunities for specially-abled individuals.
Abhinandan Home School, the only government institution of its kind in the region, educates and empowers 120 specially-abled students in Srinagar. Under the guidance of Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI)-recognised special educators, the students had spent a week practising the anthem in sign language in preparation for the event.
Principal Mudasir Sofi expressed gratitude to Sidha for ensuring that his students were included in mainstream celebrations. “They have worked hard for this day, and their performance reflects their dedication and love for the nation,” he said.
The students’ heartfelt performance earned warm applause from the audience — a powerful reminder that Independence Day belongs to everyone, and that every gesture, no matter the form, carries the same patriotic spirit.
