Special diyas by disabled to light up Diwali in Asom

Guwahati, Oct 20 (UNI) This Diwali, homes in Asom will sparkle with special diyas made by some special children.

Students of Shishu Sarothi, a centre for rehabilitation and training for multiple disabilities, have been busy colouring and decorating diyas that would light homes this year.

Executive Director of the institute Mira Kagti said, ''These children derive immense pleasure when they see that their work is being appreciated. It gives them a sense of confidence and helps them develop.'' She informed that the children of Sishu Sarothi had decorated diyas in the past also.

''These diyas are sold at a nominal price, some in dozens and others in smart packets,'' she added.

Ms Kagti said the children had targeted 25,000 diyas this year as against the 23,000 made last year.

''The diyas are bought in bulk by ladies' clubs and volunteers, who sell them at their personal initiative. We rely on word-of-mouth publicity as it is not a commercial venture but a way to show that these children have their own special qualities,'' said Ms Kagti.

Just as the students of Shishu Sarothi are ''not disabled but enabled in a different way'', as their teachers put it, the diyas are also unique by being embodiment of their labour and sense of achievement.

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