Media Release

Mangaluru, Mar 10: International Women’s Day was celebrated by Women’s Cell of Carmel College Modankap`, in association with Lions Club Bantwal and Chair of Christianity Mangalore University in the college auditorium. Dr Akkai Padmashali founder of Ondede Foundation, the organisation to falicitate and support sexual minorities was the chief guest. Akkai was the first transgender to be awarded the Rajyotsava Award, the second highest civilian honor presented by the Karnataka State.

A theatre play based on the true life of Akkai Padmashali 'Akkai-a woman for change' was staged at the college auditorium. The 70 minute solo play acted by Nayana Soda and directed by Belur Raghunandan. The play was evolved through the life of Akkai being thrown out of her home, to the tragic incidents she faced, to her homecoming under the hijira community and being a self empowered person.

Akkai Padmashali Said the play does not talk about her but of all the transgenders who need to be saved from unsafe situations. She also said transgenders also form the main stream of society and deserve the same respect and dignity as the other genders.

College principal Dr Sr Latha A C welcomed the gathering through the words of warmth and

The chief guest honoured the winners of the poster making and essay writing competition.

Dr Father Ivan D’Souza, HOD Chair in Christianity Mangalore University, Sr Mariya Priya A C joint secretary, Sr Naveena A C, principal Carmel Composite PU College, Deeraj, president Lion’s club Bantwal, members of Lions Club Bantwal, teaching and non-teaching staff Carmel College, Carmel Composite PU College were present.

Shobha Pai, Meenakshi Acharya, Madhuara K were felicitated on the occasion for their achievement in various fields. Kannada lecturer Supritha compered the programme, Tejaswini III BCom proposed the vote of thanks.