Press Release
ALS Parwaaz Forum and Asian Literary Society (ALS) organized a meaningful virtual celebration on World Down Syndrome Day, themed “Together Against Loneliness”, to promote inclusion, awareness, and emotional well-being for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The special online program was held on Thursday, 19th March 2026 at 7:15 PM IST and featured inspiring conversations with distinguished social advocates and mentors. The distinguished participants included: Ms. Gulshan Kavarana (Social Advocate & Mentor, UAE), Ms. Nisha Tandon (Founder, BYTe – Inclusive Affairs, UAE)
and Ms. Zeba Hashmi (Administrator, ALS Parwaaz Forum)
The event was gracefully moderated by Mr. Manoj Krishnan, Founder of the Asian Literary Society and ALS Parwaaz Forum. Through open and heartfelt dialogues, the speakers highlighted the importance of community support, breaking social isolation, and creating a more inclusive world where every individual feels valued and connected.
Adding a vibrant and joyful dimension to the celebration, ALS Parwaaz Forum also presented its World Down Syndrome Day 2026 Special Online Talent Show, showcasing the remarkable talents of young participants: Ritesh Kishore, Krishendu Chatterjee, Deepshikha Rathaur, Anoushka Tandon, Devansh Chandra, Hritaban Das, Zinnia Desai, Anvi Vijay Zanzarukia, Mohammed Affan Hashmi, Sameeksha Gupta, Tejasvi Desai, and Sharan Delhivala.
The performances brought smiles, applause, and a powerful message of ability, creativity, and inclusion, reinforcing that talent knows no barriers.
A Haiku Contest on “Together Against Loneliness” was also organized on this occasion. Tem participants from all over the world were selected as the winners of this contest. The winners are- Sandhyarani Dash, Kasia Dominik, Sucharita Parija, Shashi Kothari, Sima Verma, Anil Dhawan, Smriti Srivastava, Thi Lan Anh Tran, Concetta Pipia, and Sarita Khullar.
Speaking on the occasion, Manoj Krishnan emphasized, “Loneliness can be one of the biggest challenges faced by individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Through awareness, acceptance, and active community participation, we aim to build a world where no one feels alone. Every voice, every talent, and every smile matters.”
ALS Parwaaz Forum and Asian Literary Society (ALS) extend their sincere gratitude to all distinguished speakers, talented young performers, attendees, and supporters who made the evening a memorable celebration of inclusion and togetherness.
World Down Syndrome Day, 21 March, is a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. ALS Parwaaz Forum is an initiative focused on empowering special needs communities, promoting inclusion, and providing a platform for individuals with disabilities to showcase their talents and voices.
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