Mumbai, Mar 23: On the auspicious evening of Gudi Padwa, A.K. Munshi Yojana (AKMY), a NGO that runs a school for intellectually disabled children and two medical centres, hosted a memorable cultural evening at Nehru Auditorium, Mumbai. The programme, which drew a packed house, combined heartfelt performances by AKMY’s special students and trainees with a concert by legendary playback singer Nitin Mukesh, making it an evening of both purpose and prestige.
The Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, Hon’ble Chief Justice Chandrashekhar, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, accompanied by several sitting and former judges of the High Court, along with several dignitaries and well-wishers of the institution. The overwhelming presence of dignitaries showed their the solidarity with the cause of special children.
Trustee K.G. Munshi, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to Chief Justice Chandrashekhar for not only accepting the Trust’s invitation but also for encouraging his fellow judges to attend, going so far as to declare the event not just to AKMY, but to the High Court as well. Munshi called this gesture of Chief justice a profound and moving gesture showing solidarity with the special children.
AKMY President Smt. Bharati Ganjawala then shared her vision for the institution, reflecting on the organisation’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the potential of every child in its care. Chief Justice Chandrashekhar’s address was the highlight of the formal proceedings. Invoking NALSA’s cherished theme, “Ek Mutthi Aasman Par Haq Hamara Bhi Hai”, he declared that justice is not a privilege but a right for every citizen — Nyaya sub ke liye hai. He emphasised that these words are not merely inspirational, but the very foundation upon which the Indian judiciary operates. Calling upon society to recognise special children as part of the nation’s future, the CJ implored that the Society must collectively strive to work towards children who are our future and emphasised that children include special children. He recalled his own judicial decision which directly led to legislative reform in the state of Jharkhand and reiterated the courts’ commitment to the cause of the under privileged.
The evening reached its crescendo with a spellbinding performance by Nitin Mukesh. His soulful, nostalgic songs made the evening memorable for the audience. The evening stood as a testament to the vision of AKMY to bring community, art, and compassion together.
