By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On September 20, 2025, Wading Through Life’s – Funtoosh (WTL) hosted the “Funtoosh Talent Ki Toli – Navratri Mini Mela Special” for children with special needs and their families. Organized in collaboration with Don Bosco Prafulta, Nerul and The Stellar Don Bosco Academy (DBA), the celebration brought together over 40 children, along with their parents and teachers, for a morning filled with joy, talent, and togetherness.

 The event was supported by the Rotary Club of Smart City Navi Mumbai, who generously sponsored 30 children from two special schools. Ms Nazia Momin, President of the Rotary Club, attended with her team to cheer for the young performers. Also present were Fr Barnabe Dsouza, Rector and Director at DBA, and Ms Wenonah Castellino, Founder-Director of WTL, who, along with their teams, helped make the event a memorable success.

 Proceedings began with an introduction by WTL Founder Ms Castellino and a soulful prayer song, as everyone joined hands in solidarity for the cause. What followed was a vibrant display of talent that left the audience inspired. Children dressed in colourful attire performed an energetic Garba dance, while two budding dancers held the crowd’s attention with a lively duet. Hemnya mesmerised everyone by sketching Goddess Durga freehand on a whiteboard, showcasing remarkable artistic skill. Vedant not only performed with confidence but also pulled his peers onto the dance floor, replicating the steps of Allu Arjun from the Telugu movie Pushpa with flair.

 The stage continued to shine with variety as a young girl wowed the audience with her quick recall of multiplication tables and calendar facts; Aradhya and Saachi captivated hearts with their dancing to “Sapphire” by Ed Sheeran and Arijit Singh; Avneesh had everyone laughing with his mimicry; and Akhil impressed by singing and dancing with equal enthusiasm. Each child proved that they are, indeed, stars who shine in their own unique ways.

 Beyond the performances, the event also catered to families’ needs. A specialist counter from Prafulta was set up to guide parents on concerns related to their children, while an art corner allowed kids to freely express their creativity. Parents and teachers shared heartfelt appreciation, expressing how meaningful it was for the children to perform on stage and showcase their gifts. Being recognised and being a part of a group made the children happy and fulfilled.

 This celebration also marked almost one year since the launch of WTL’s Support Group at Nerul. Over the past year, WTL has organized support group meetings, indoor and outdoor sports camps, playdates, expert-led discussions, and therapy guidance sessions. They have also provided tailored educational pathways, picnics, and mini melas—creating a safe and inclusive space where children and families can thrive, connect, and grow together.