Yoga Day brings smiles and strength to specially abled children in Gangtok

The Special School for Disabilities in Gangtok hosted a unique International Yoga Day event dedicated to children with disabilities, bringing together over 80 specially-abled children in a celebration of inclusion and strength. 
 

Organized for the first time in collaboration with Special Olympics Bharat's Sikkim Chapter, the event featured adapted yoga sessions that focused on the children’s abilities rather than their limitations, promoting confidence, well-being, and a sense of unity.
 

The school, which functions under the Women and Child Welfare Department, currently has over 140 children enrolled. However, not all of them could participate in the event. The younger children, due to their age and physical challenges, were given rest while the older children enthusiastically joined the yoga session.
 

The event took place in a warm and inclusive atmosphere. There were no grand stages or big speeches—only mats laid out on the ground, caring teachers, and enthusiastic students who performed yoga with guided help. Each stretch, each pose, was met with cheers, encouragement, and applause.
 

Ganesh Chandra Khanal, the Area Director of Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), Sikkim Chapter, shared a message during the event. “This program today is not for the chief guests. This program is for the special children, who have highly skilled abilities on their own. They are our chief guests, and we are with them to organize this,” he said. His words drew smiles from the children, teachers, and staff alike, reflecting the spirit of true inclusion.
 

Also present at the event was Kuber Chandra Dahal, President of the SOB Sikkim Chapter. He interacted with the children and observed their efforts with admiration. Teachers and caretakers from the school actively supported the students throughout the session, making sure every child felt safe and supported. Their patience and love were evident as they guided the children through each step of the yoga routine.
 

For many of the children, this was more than just a physical activity. It was a chance to be part of something big, to feel included, and to show their strength in their own way. Some smiled brightly while balancing, others giggled through poses, and many simply enjoyed being in the company of friends, teachers, and supporters.
 

Though yoga is often seen as a tool for physical fitness, this event highlighted its deeper role in improving mental calm, emotional balance, and social bonding—especially important for children with special needs. The yoga session helped the children stretch their bodies, calm their minds, and boost their confidence. The staff noted that such activities not only improve flexibility and posture but also bring emotional stability to the children.
 

As the yoga mats were rolled up and the children clapped to mark the end of the session, it was clear that this Yoga Day in Gangtok was not just about exercise. It was a celebration of ability, acceptance, and community; a day when every child, no matter their challenge, got to shine.