The Rotary Club of Mumbai Elegant, in association with Femina Miss India World 2023 Nandini Gupta, and Kalki Foundation, successfully hosted Project Jyoti, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering visually impaired athletes through sports. The event featured a cricket tournament for visually impaired children from the Cricket Association for the Blind of Maharashtra (CABM), held at the esteemed MCA Ground, Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbai—a venue that has witnessed numerous legendary matches.
The tournament saw the participation of 36 visually impaired players, providing them with a world-class sporting experience. In a heart-warming awards ceremony, the winning team was presented with Jyoti AI Glasses, an innovative assistive technology designed to enhance the mobility and independence of visually impaired individuals.
Distinguished Guests & Award Presenters
The event was graced by eminent personalities from the fields of sports, social service, and leadership. The award distribution ceremony was conducted by Femina Miss India World 2023 Nandini Gupta, President of Kalki Foundation Shalini Jeetendra Thackeray, President of RC Mumbai Elegant Dr. Nidhika Bahl, and Directors of RC Mumbai Elegant Ruchika Suri and Dr. Arlene Ghosh.
Adding to the prestige of the event, Former Indian Cricketer and Founder Director of the International Institute of Sports Management Nilesh Kulkarni, renowned sportsman, cricketer, and entrepreneur Jeetendra Thackeray, Secretary of Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) Mr. Abhay Hadap, and MCA Coach Nilesh Bhosale attended as Guests of Honour, further elevating the significance of the initiative.
A Platform for Talent, Inclusion & Inspiration
The event underscored the power of sports in fostering inclusion, resilience, and self-confidence among visually impaired players. Pankaj Chaudhari, President of CABM, expressed his gratitude, stating:“With 36 visually impaired players participating, we truly appreciated the excellent facilities and the opportunity to play on a historic cricket ground. This event was not only a platform to showcase our talent but also a great source of motivation and inspiration.”
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Nidhika Bahl, President of the Rotary Club of Mumbai Elegant, said:“True empowerment is not just about providing opportunities but about breaking barriers. Through Project Jyoti, we are not only celebrating the talent of these extraordinary players but also redefining what is possible. Every boundary crossed today is a step toward a more inclusive and compassionate world. At Rotary, we believe that when you uplift one life, you create ripples that uplift an entire community.”
Additionally, Femina Miss India World 2023, Nandini Gupta, delivered an inspiring speech that resonated deeply with the players, encouraging them to push their limits and excel not just in sports but in every aspect of life. As part of her charitable initiative for Miss World, Nandini is dedicated to empowering the differently-abled, fostering confidence, promoting inclusion—a mission that aligns seamlessly with the spirit of Project Jyoti.
Commitment to Empowering the Visually Impaired Community
Project Jyoti is a testament to the Rotary Club of Mumbai Elegant’s commitment to service and social impact. By leveraging technology and community-driven initiatives, the club continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need. The Kalki Foundation, known for its dedication to social welfare, played a crucial role in making this initiative a reality.
The success of Project Jyoti reaffirms the belief that disability is not a limitation, but an opportunity for extraordinary achievements.
