On 29 October 2025, I had the privilege of being invited by the
Anjali Dyslexia Association Kolkata (ADAK) to join the Walk
for Dyslexia at the majestic Victoria Memorial Hall — an event
supported by the Ministry of Culture.
Though the sky opened up and gave us some rain, nothing
dimmed the energy or the message of the day. The Victoria
Memorial’s white marble looked even more dramatic against the
clouds, and the green lawn was alive with hundreds of red shirts
and caps — students, teachers, parents and advocates gathered
together for inclusion, understanding, and celebration.
I was honored to meet some inspiring people there:
● Ms. Diya Basu from MDA, whose warmth and coordination
kept everything flowing;
● Ms. Subhashree Mukherjee, Program Developer and
Curriculum Head for SLD at First Step Remedial Education
Center — a real champion for structured literacy;
● Dr. Arundhati Sarkar, Founder-Director of Anjali Dyslexia
Association Kolkata & Anjali Educational (and formerly of
Manochetna Academic and Research Centre, Manovikas
Kendra) — meeting her in person felt special.
Despite the rain, the smiles and the conversations were constant.
I spoke briefly with some of the students about my journey — how
dyslexia shaped the way I see and create, and how finding
creative outlets helped me turn difficulty into strength. Ms. Diya
mentioned the students were keen to chat more and that they’ll
invite me to visit their schools soon — I can’t wait for that.
The podium was set right in front of Victoria Memorial’s lawn, and
the guest speakers delivered heartfelt words on awareness,
empathy, and practical support for learners with dyslexia. The
walk had to be cut short because of the weather, but the message
was loud and clear: differences in learning are not deficits —
they are diverse ways of seeing and solving the world’s
problems.
Walking among teachers, children and advocates in red felt like
being part of something very hopeful — a community that
chooses kindness, understanding, and opportunity. Even the rain
felt like a small blessing, washing the air clean and making the
day feel unforgettable.
To every student, parent, teacher and friend I met that day: thank
you. I look forward to visiting your schools, sharing more of my
story, and learning from yours. Here’s to celebrating different
minds, and to building schools and classrooms where everyone
belongs. 🌈
