Arif Mohammed Khan, Governor of Kerala inaugurates the ‘Art Tower’ of the UEC

Arif Mohammed Khan, the Hon'ble Governor of Kerala inaugurated, on 12 January 2022, the ‘Art Tower’ a new project by the Universal Empowerment Centre located at Magic Planet, KINFRA Film and Video Park, Thiruvananthapuram. This is a first-of-its-kind venture as part of the Different Art Centre, a specialist art centre for differently abled children. The Hon'ble Governor witnessed several displays of artworks created by the valiant children at the centre enduring conditions such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, and Hearing Loss. Arif Mohammed Khan expressed amazement at the incredible artworks and appreciated their expertise.

In his inaugural speech, the Hon'ble Governor spelled out and applauded the vigorous endeavours of Gopinath Muthukad, the founder of Magic Planet for breaking new grounds in the empowerment of differently abled children. Adoor Gopalakrishnan, the most acclaimed filmmaker and Patron of the Academy of Magical Sciences presided over the ceremony. The entire team including engineers Manoj Ottappalam, Sudheer and designer Najeeb who expended their dedication and hard work to build the Art Tower were recognized during the event. Jin Joseph presented the vote of thanks.

Gopinath Muthukad shared with the audience about his remarkable journey in paving the path for a specialist centre to train differently abled children to be professional performers. “There is no greater happiness than the time spent with the children here watching them create marvellous art,” he exclaimed in contentment. The Different Art Centre aims to equip differently abled children with the skills and confidence they need in order to live independent and fulfilling lives. Their mission is to empower children with disabilities to find employment, to have an active social life, and to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Started in 2019, the Different Art Centre is a rambling beauty of a venue set in 4 acres of a beautifully landscaped place at Kazhakootam. It provides the best world class facilities to give these children a natural sensory environment which can help them develop and refine their skills. The unique curriculum offers innovative and exciting programmes that help children with disabilities to move forward in their lives and be independent. "While this venture is fruitful and giving us a sense of sublime, we are excited about their forthcoming ventures such as a therapy centre, an agricultural research centre, and a sports centre.", Governor Khan added.