Newstv99 : Kolkata, 27th January, 2026. Kolkata is set to witness a celebration of ability, confidence and inclusion on February 1, when 800 specially-abled children from across the city will participate in the 12th edition of Aashayein – Roshni Umeedon Ki at Gitanjali Stadium. The event was formally announced on Tuesday by the Lions Club of Calcutta, under District 322B1, at a media interaction held in the city.
One of the most enduring social initiatives of the Lions Club of Calcutta, Aashayein has evolved into the city’s flagship inclusive sports carnival for children with special needs. Organised in association with Round Table India – Calcutta Midtown Round Table 113 and Ladies Circle India – Calcutta Midtown Ladies Circle 132, Aashayein 2026 will be held from 9 am to 4 pm, featuring a full day of sporting events and activities.
The announcement programme was attended by CA Pawan Kumar Patodia, Vice President, Special Olympics Bharat and President, SO Bharat West Bengal; Lion Vivek Adukiya of Adukiya Industries; Tr. Harsh Karnani, Chairman, Calcutta Midtown Round Table 113; and Cr. Rashmi Bajaj, Chairperson, Calcutta Midtown Ladies Circle 132. The dignitaries underlined the importance of collaboration in creating inclusive platforms and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting equal opportunities for children with special needs.
This year’s edition will see participation from 38 special institutions across Kolkata, making Aashayein 2026 one of the largest inclusive sporting initiatives in the region. Modelled on a Paralympics-style sports meet, the event aims to provide a competitive yet supportive environment where children can showcase their abilities and sporting spirit.
Speaking on the occasion, Lion Gopal Krishna Agarwal, President, Lions Club of Calcutta, said, “Aashayein reflects the ethos of Lionism — service with compassion and dignity. Every child participating here is already a winner. The objective is not medals alone, but confidence, joy and a sense of belonging.”
The sporting schedule will include track and field events such as 50-metre and 100-metre flat races, SBT ball throw and shot put, conducted under the supervision of 40 trained officials from the Sodepur Referee Association (SRA) to ensure safety and fairness.
Beyond sports, the event will feature a carnival atmosphere with a dedicated fun zone. Participants will be provided with meals, event T-shirts, jackets and caps, along with gift hampers containing school supplies and refreshments.
Organisers reiterated that Aashayein celebrates ability rather than limitation, promising a day where success will be measured not only in medals, but in smiles, confidence and courage.
**Legacy of the Lions Club of Calcutta.**
Founded in 1957, the Lions Club of Calcutta is among the oldest service organisations in eastern India. Inaugurated on February 1, 1957, and chartered by Lions Clubs International the same year, it was the first Lions Club in the eastern region. With a service legacy of over 69 years, the club has led initiatives in disaster relief, public health, eye care and inclusive social programmes. Institutions such as the Calcutta Lions Bimal Poddar Eye Hospital and Calcutta Lions Netra Niketan remain enduring symbols of its commitment to community welfare.
