Pune, Aug 20: Ekrang 3.0, an event celebrating inclusion, diversity and community, was held on Independence Day with the participation of 600-plus people. The event brought together families, educators, NGOs, organizations, neurodivergent individuals, entrepreneurs and supporters on one platform.
The event began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony in the presence of the founders of Ghumakkad and Ahilya, Ms. Soma Gupta, the founders of Aashayein — Ms. Pooja Narang, Ms. Pooja Nahar and Ms. Shilpa — representatives of title sponsor KOVE Early Intervention Centre by KLAY, and Mrs. Anjali Patil from Millennium Semiconductors. Mr. Rajesh and Ms. Danika from KOVE were also present at the event. Mr. Sunil Deshmukh and Dr. Meena Ganorkar supported the event as co-sponsors. A beautiful Ganesh Vandana by Anya marked the beginning of the celebrations.
The Ghumakkad Inclusion Circle, hosted by Ms. Janhavi Ghare, brought together around 60 educators from nearly 25 organizations. Parents interacted with educators and discussed education, inclusion and support for children. KOVE also conducted engaging activities during the session. The participating educators were felicitated at the end.
The Wings of Hope Awards recognized 20 neurodivergent children for their achievements and talents in different fields. The awards were presented by Chief Guest Lt. Col. Nikhil Pathak, Paralympian and two-time bronze medallist Mr. Bharat Patil, along with representatives from KOVE and Millennium Semiconductors.
The Aparajita Awards honoured 20 parents of neurodivergent children for their strength, dedication and continuous support for their children. The awards were presented in the presence of Chief Guest Mrs. Nisha Ghosh, a well-known literary personality and consultant with The Times of India along with Bipul Gupta, Prabhav Gupta and Sanskriti Agarwal
Designing Synergies, hosted by Mrs. Natasha Pilakudy, brought together 15 neurodivergent and neurotypical young people. They shared their ideas and views on creating a more inclusive future. The session encouraged open conversation and understanding among young people.
The Inclusive Family Fashion Show, organized by Ms. Neha Hurkat of Fashion O, with support from Poorva and Bhumi, was one of the main attractions of the event. Around 60 children participated along with their parents. The show featured fun and creative themes, including Singham and Ganpati celebrations.
A special highlight of the fashion show was Ms. Deepakshi Shringare, Mrs. India Runners-up, walking the ramp alongside neurodivergent children. Her participation sent a strong message of confidence, acceptance and inclusion. Ms. Shringare also served as the Chief Guest for the Family Fashion Show.
Adding to the excitement was a beautiful patriotic performance by the children of The Asha School, which was especially meaningful as the event was held on Independence Day. A lively flash mob by Club Youngistan, led by Baali Sir, also brought energy and enthusiasm to the celebrations. The performances, along with the participation of parents and children, made the fashion show a joyful celebration of family, talent and inclusion.
The Ahilya Bazaar featured 20 stalls showcasing products made by women entrepreneurs and neurodivergent individuals. NGOs and organizations such as Prism Foundation, Nayi Disha, SWABHIMAN and Grip Foundation participated in the bazaar. Handmade jewellery, bags, rakhis, artwork, crafts and food products were among the items displayed. These stalls highlighted the skills, creativity and entrepreneurial abilities of neurodivergent individuals and their families.
The event was hosted by Vinamrata Bhatia, who brought together the different programmes throughout the day.
With 600-plus attendees and participation from more than 40 organizations, Ekrang 3.0 became a strong platform for celebrating inclusion and creating awareness about the abilities and achievements of neurodivergent individuals.
Ekrang continues to grow as a platform where families, educators, organizations and communities come together, share experiences and create opportunities.
Ekrang 3.0 was not just an event — it was a celebration of every individual’s unique abilities, dreams and possibilities.