Udhavi: Empowering Every Child

Preface

I was lucky to have had the privilege of meeting Mrs. Mala Ramaswamy, the founder of Udhavi, a school that has been in Coonoor for over 30 years and has been doing remarkable work for children with disabilities. This interaction offered valuable insight into the vision behind Udhavi and a deeper understanding of their work.

The Beginning

The founder had friends working in the field of disability in Calcutta and Cochin and regularly supported those institutions from Coonoor. The idea of starting something locally came about when a trained professional who had worked with the Spastic Society of Eastern India moved to Coonoor. She approached the founder, having heard about her involvement with similar institutions, and asked for help in setting up a centre.

Recognising that running such an initiative alone would be difficult, it was suggested that they approach the Family Planning Association of India. Udhavi started as a volunteer project under the Family Planning Association of India and became an independent organisation after five to seven years. Now, a small dedicated group of volunteers form the committee of Udhavi and they help in the day to day functioning of the organization.

A Vision for The Children

Udhavi supports children with cerebral palsy, autism, down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, developmental delays, and physical disabilities. The core vision has always been to make each child as independent as possible, depending on their individual capacity. While not all children are able to achieve the same outcomes, the focus remains on helping every child reach their highest potential.

Every child who joins Udhavi undergoes an initial assessment conducted by the special educator, Mrs Lathika Rao. If required, the child is sent to a neurologist for further evaluation. Based on these assessments, each child is given an individual programme tailored to their needs. Children are placed into different sections according to their developmental level rather than their age, as a child may be older in years but functioning at a much younger level.

A Typical Day at Udhavi

The staff arrive at the school around quarter to 10 and children arrive at 10 a.m. Since the attention spans of the children are different for each child, sessions are kept flexible. The most focused learning takes place between 10 a.m and half past 11.

Then for half an hour, children spend time in a small outdoor play area, which they enjoy greatly. They return indoors from 12:00 to 12:30 for more activities, followed by lunch at 12:30.

Lunch is provided by the school and is planned to be a very wholesome meal, containing carbohydrates, protein, greens and eggs. In the afternoon, at around 2:30 p.m., children are given a very nutritious drink.

Meals and Community Support

Care is taken to ensure that meals are not only nutritious but also tasty, as children are more likely to eat food they enjoy. Meals are often sponsored by individuals celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other occasions. Sometimes the sponsors cook at home and bring the food themselves, while at other times they request the school to order it from trusted sources that prepare food suited to the children’s preferences. Biryani remains a clear favourite among the children!

Challenges Faced by Udhavi

Financial support remains one of the biggest challenges for Udhavi. The organisation strives to continue all services without compromise, but limited funds make this difficult. Staff members are paid modest salaries, and at times the school is unable to provide increments due to financial constraints. Administrative challenges also arise frequently, particularly in relation to reporting requirements from government departments.

Space is another limitation. Udhavi was able to lease an additional three cents of land, which now serves as a playground. The original playground space was built over to create two classrooms, and an upstairs area is used for craft activities. The school can accommodate up to 40 children, though the current strength is around 30.

Volunteers and Support

Volunteers are welcome, and no specific skills are required. What is most important is empathy and an openness to working with children with disabilities. These children are like any other children and need both care and discipline. Udhavi currently requires both financial and volunteer support.

Donations declined after the pandemic, particularly when a long-standing monthly donor stopped donating. Despite challenges, the team continues to approach individuals and organisations for support.

Impact and Stories from the Community

The strongest affirmation of Udhavi’s work comes from parents, many of whom describe the school as feeling like a second home. Parents of younger children often attend sessions to learn physiotherapy techniques so that they can continue them at home. The dedication of the staff, is also a significant strength.

Acts of generosity from the community have been deeply moving—from a lorry driver who donated money after seeing the school to families with very little who still choose to sponsor meals for the children. Most children at Udhavi come from underprivileged backgrounds, with very few from even lower-middle-class families.

Looking Ahead

Udhavi extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the organisation over the years and looks forward to continued involvement from donors and volunteers. There is also a strong call for greater public sensitisation toward children with disabilities, emphasising that they are children like any other and deserve understanding and inclusion. Visiting the school, meeting the children, and seeing the work firsthand is often what makes the greatest difference.

How Can You Support Udhavi

Donate Your support funds therapy, meals, staff, and daily school operations. Every contribution counts.

Volunteer No special skills needed—just patience and empathy. Help by spending time or sharing creative talents like art or music.

Visit Visits offer firsthand insight into Udhavi’s work and help build awareness and understanding.

How to Reach Out

Those who wish to support Udhavi may contact them through their email udhavi.cnr@gmail.com You can also visit their website https://www.udhavi.co.in/