The cultural festival season at the University of Delhi (DU) marks the celebration of a successful semester by students. While students from the whole university participate in various events and activities to show their talent, the differently-abled feel a little left out as there are few events or activities that are organised specifically for them.
However, Janki Devi Memorial College has been organising a solo singing and instrumental music competition for such students as part of their annual cultural festival, Symphony. The college is the only one in Delhi University that organises a music competition for differently-abled students. The competition was started in 2013.
“I have been organising this event for the past four years and the experience has been great. The college gets a lot of participants from other colleges and most of the singers are able to use a harmonium. Some even play guitars and sing along. The students enjoy being part of this competition,” said Sudnya N. Kulkarni, teacher coordinator.
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“I had always been looking for a chance to serve people who are differently-abled. Through this event, I got to see what these lovely people are capable of. They are an inspiration to all of us and all they need is our motivation. Being part of it gives me immense satisfaction,” said Shruti Narula, student coordinator.
The event that is open to all universities of Delhi and saw participation of around 20 students this year. The first prize in solo singing was bagged by Kiran from Shyama Prasad Mukherji College and the second prize was awarded to Nishu from Miranda House. Leelavati from Janki Devi Memorial College won the third prize. Solo instrumental music competition was won by Kavita Gupta of Janki Devi Memorial College.
“I never thought I would get the chance to sing in front of a huge crowd, but our college provided me the opportunity to express my feelings through my song. By God’s grace, I won the competition for the second time,” said Leelawati with a smile on her face after she won the singing Competition.
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Sulekha, a tabla player who also won a prize, said,“I never thought I would get this opportunity to showcase my talent. This provided me a platform to boost my confidence.”