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By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai
The much-awaited Mini Mela with a Patriotic Splash was jointly organized by Wading Through Life – Funtoosh and Don Bosco Prafulta Centre for Psychological Wellness, in collaboration with Don Bosco Academy and the Rotary Club of Smart City, Navi Mumbai, on August 22, 2025. The aim was to create not only joyful memories but also awareness and stronger networks of support for children with special needs and their families.
The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of many, Prafulta and WTL – Funtoosh team envisioned and designed the activities; Don Bosco Development Services supported with volunteers for activities and decorations; DBA staff managed photography and sound; while the Rotary Club of Smart City generously sponsored the participation of several children.
The Mini Mela – Patriotic Splash was envisioned as more than just an event; it was a true celebration of inclusion, diversity, and resilience. It provided a safe, welcoming, and fun-filled space where children with special needs could express themselves freely, bond with their families, and experience the joy of being fully embraced by their community.
Over 200 participants came together, including students from Blossom Special Child School with their teachers and parents, children from ETC Centre for Disability, Vashi, students from Ikshana, and members of our extended support family. The day began with a warm welcome, followed by an engaging storytelling session by Fr Barnabe Dsouza - Director of DBA, whose innovative style captivated the children and set the tone for the celebrations. Ms Wenonah Castellino – Founder, Director of Wading Through Life and Advisor at DBA the host for the evening, kept the energy alive and ensured that each activity was engaging and inclusive.
The activities commenced with a Tunnel of Love, conducted by music therapist Mr Jude Rodrigues, where children walked through a symbolic shower of flowers, representing blessings. This was followed by Music Moment, a blend of rhythm, movement, and creativity. A special highlight was the performance by Ikshana children, who sang Chodo Kal Ki Baatien and Vande Mataram, earning loud applause from the audience.
The Mela also featured fun games such as color-ball sorting and water games, along with physical fitness sessions conducted by coaches Rory Fernandes and Rohan Borkar. An Art & Craft corner allowed children to enjoy coloring and origami. Every participant was celebrated as a star and awarded a medal of appreciation.
The most awaited moment was the rain dance, enjoyed under sprinklers and light showers from the heavens, filling the air with laughter and cheer. The day concluded on a patriotic note with the singing of the national anthem. Families left with hearts full of joy, encouraged by the sense of support, togetherness, and strength gained through these shared experiences.
The responses from the parents said it all, “We feel happy when we see our children included and enjoying themselves.” Ms Castellino spoke from the heart with a trembling voice when she said, “look at the smiles, look at the joy. It brings me to tears.” Another parent Anshika chimed in, “This is not a mela but hope that our children can belong, play and be celebrated.”
The mela is one step towards inclusion and acceptance without the stigma of judgement. We provide parents and children with moments of pride and bonding that are never experienced in therapy-based timetables. Independence is about removing the barriers and feeling free to belong.
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