Specially-Abled Children Craft Diyas, Light Up Lives
“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” This Diwali, the proverb comes alive at Prajwal Vani Welfare Society in Visakhapatnam, where specially-abled children craft and paint clay diyas that are as much about skill as they are about light.
Under the Visakha Kushideep Project, children with Down syndrome, autism, and other disabilities have created 2,000 diyas this year, including 1,000 candle diyas in innovative shapes like elephants and chimneys, designed to last beyond the festival. The initiative trains them in painting, pattern recognition, counting, and even money handling—skills that nurture independence and confidence.
“Every year, diyas are discarded after Diwali,” says Suchitra, founder of the society. “This time, we made designs that can stay in homes. The children’s work deserves to be remembered.”
The stories behind the diyas are inspiring. Aadhithi Varma, once homebound, now attends SKML College and helped paint this year’s diyas. Naveen, who started schooling late due to health issues, designed 200 diyas while pursuing his graduation. Lokesh, hearing impaired and non-verbal, contributed through sign language. Pranay, a national-level para-athlete who lost both parents, balances sports and studies while creating diyas.
A stall at CMR Central is being planned, where the diyas will be sold for Rs 50–Rs 350, with proceeds going to the children. For them, Diwali is not just a festival of lights—it’s a celebration of independence, skill, and achievement.
“Disability is not a disease,” Suchitra says. “With training, support, and opportunity, these children shine brighter than any diya.”