16th Walkathon “Lets walk to support Blind Cricket” It is a Passion with Purpose
Bengaluru| 19th Nov 2022
Every year, Samarthanam organizes a one-of-a kind Walkathon that witnesses massive public support. Samarthanam’s Walkathon is organized mainly to encourage people across the country to get involved and spread awareness on a common cause. The International observance of the United Nations aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.Samarthanam’s Bengaluru Walkathon 2022 held on November 19th 2022 at Kanteerva Stadium in Bangalore, helped improve awareness and support the game of Cricket for the visually impaired and promote the 3rd T-20 World Cup for the Blind 2022, to be played from December 5th to December 17th 2022, in India. The 3rd T20 World Cup for the Blind has Seven Nations Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Srilanka and the host India are participating playing 24 Matches in 8 cities. It is an effort to empower Blind Cricketers across the Globe and initiate public engagement into meaningful action.
Ms Sapthami Gowda, Lead actress of Kantara Film, the Brand Ambassador of Walkathon speaking to the Media said “It surprises me how the visually impaired players play Cricket, which itself is a very tricky and challenging game. I can’t wait to watch and support the 3rd T20 World Cup. Let us be a part of it and support and enrich our experience”
The event saw dignitaries from the Government, corporate, Volunteers, Children and University Students attend in big numbers. Around 10, 000 in huge numbers participated in the Walkathon. Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar, Founder Managing Trustee of Samarthanam said, it’s always nice to be here in a Walkathon. I thank the most distinguished guests, invitees’ volunteers, NCC cadets, Media, Medical Partners, School children and College students who have thronged here passionately to show their solidarity in support of Blind Cricket. People with disabilities are an integral part of the society. Our focus is to assure inclusiveness and bring in a Rehabilitation drive to the millions of visually impaired across the globe and overcome barriers by boosting their confidence leading to economic empowerment of the Blind Cricketers. My gratitude and heart felt thanks to each one of you for your presence and support extended”
Shri P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament said “I am delighted to be a part of this Walkathon. The hard work that Samarthanam is doing would enable it to touch a million lives by 2030”
Smt K.S. Latha Kumari IAS Director, Dept. of Empowerment of Differently Abled &Senior Citizens, GoK said that Samarthanam’s energy is infectious and said that the disabled are at par with all and asked them to put their best foot forward and march ahead.
Smt Kala Krishnaswamy IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic East Division congratulated Samarthanam on the 16 th Walkathon said “The Walkathon and the specially abled participants are in an empowered situation and never in a challenged situation”
Ms Saptham Gowda Actress Kanthara Fame said she is excited to be a part of this Walkathon. With a small beginning, the organization has grown too big serving a noble cause.
Ashok Kumar Govindarajan , Assistant Vice President State Street had words of praise for Samarthanam and its passion. He urged the team to enable themselves more and more and wanted the support of all to make this world a better place for the disabled.
Ramya Parashar, CEO AND Member of Executive Board, MIQ appreciated the good work of Samarthanam and congratulated the participants.
Prarthna of GKN Aero space said that it was a pride moment for them to participate and offer support to Samarthanam.
Anjana Aruna shree Director Covalense appreciated the enthusiasm and commitment of Samarthanam.
Kiran Kumar Deputy Finance Manager Kluber wished great luck to Samarthanam and the Walkathon
Shri Rakesh Shetty, MD. Of OF Power T.V lauded the efforts of Samarthanam
Shri M. Mahadeva, Founder Secretary &Treasurer, PCI President, KSAPH applauded the efforts of Samarthanam .
About Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled: Registered as a Trust in 1997, has been working towards creating education and livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities and from underserved communities. The larger vision of our organization is to work towards an inclusive society which provides equal opportunities for all.
More details can be found at our website www.samarthanam.org.