Aarkkum Paadam – Celebrating True Freedom at MSK Nagar by Don Bosco Veedu

Don Bosco Veedu’s Independence Day celebration in Trivandrum turned into a powerful expression of community, culture, and collective freedom. The evening program, Aarkkum Paadam (“Anyone Can Sing”), blended music, messages, and women’s empowerment under the theme “Celebrating True Freedom.”

Trivandrum, Aug. 14 — Don Bosco Veedu marked the 79th anniversary of India’s Independence with Aarkkum Paadam(“Anyone Can Sing”), a cultural evening held at MSK Nagar under the theme “Celebrating True Freedom.” The event, organised as part of the AWAKE project, sought to bring together the women of the colony and revitalise SHEROES, a collective dedicated to women’s empowerment.

The celebration opened with the unveiling of the program design by Trivandrum MLA Mr. Antony Raju, who commended Don Bosco Veedu for its socially relevant initiatives that uplift communities on the city’s margins. “This is a new freedom,” he observed, “where anyone can sing their dreams out loud, no longer buried in silence.”

The evening ran from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., featuring nearly 20 karaoke performances interwoven with short reflections on the meaning of freedom. Police officers from the Fort Station, led by their CI, joined residents in song, highlighting how cultural gatherings can unite communities.

Fr. Thomas Mekkaden, Director of Don Bosco Nivas, outlined Don Bosco Veedu’s ongoing projects and thanked residents for their wholehearted cooperation in AWAKE. Fr. Jiji, Rector of Don Bosco Veedu, reminded the audience that freedom fighters “did not struggle so we could live divided by petty differences, but so that we might live united, with dignity and hope.”

Voices from the colony added a deeply personal dimension to the evening. Abel, a student, shared: “Freedom means I can go to school, open my books, and dream about my future.” Pranav, a youth from the place, reflected, “Freedom is choosing my path and speaking without fear.” Rakendu woman rep added, “Freedom lets me speak proudly and chase my dreams without discrimination.”

The program was anchored by Jeena, a spirited youth leader whose quiz competitions and interactive games energised the crowd. Registered women participants received prizes through a lucky draw, further strengthening the celebratory atmosphere.

Special credit goes to Kavya, the chief coordinator, whose meticulous planning with women’s groups, resident associations, and local leaders ensured the event’s success. As the evening closed, Don Bosco Veedu announced that Aarkkum Paadam will return in December, promising even greater reach, participation, and impact.