Srinagar, Aug 15, 2025 : In a moving tribute to the nation, students from two schools for the specially-abled marked the 79th Independence Day with a unique performance — singing the national anthem in Indian sign language for the first time in Srinagar.
Students from Abhinandan Home School, Rambagh, and Voluntary Medical Society, Bemina, came together at the Shri Pratap Museum for the event organised by the J&K Department of Archives, Archaeology, and Museums. Among them were children who were speech and hearing impaired, visually impaired, and physically challenged.
Director K.K. Sidha called the performance “a lesson in perseverance and inclusion,” adding, “These students have overcome immense challenges to carve their place in society. It is our duty to provide them equal opportunities.”
Abhinandan Home School — the only government institution in the region dedicated to specially-abled students — trained 120 children under special educators recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India. For a week, they practised the anthem in sign language, perfecting each gesture.
Principal Mudasir Sofi thanked the organisers for giving the students a platform to be part of the main Independence Day celebrations. The heartfelt performance earned a standing ovation, underscoring that the spirit of freedom belongs to everyone.
