16th Walkathon “Lets walk to support Blind Cricket” It is a Passion with Purpose
Bengaluru : 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 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. 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 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 heartfelt thanks to each one of you for your presence and support extended”
Shri P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament, Smt K.S. Latha Kumari IAS Director, Dept of Empowerment of Differently Abled &Senior Citizens, GoK, Shri. M.P. Mullai Muhilan , IAS, Commissioner ,Dept Youth Empowerment &Sports, GoK, Smt Kala Krishnaswamy IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic East Division, and Shri M. Mahadeva, Founder Secretary &Treasurer, PCI President, KSAPH were present.