Panchatantra Stories in Braille

In an effort to mitigating the problem of inadequate interesting and fun reading and learning material for children with visual impairments Arushi, a voluntary NGO in Guwahati has decided to pitch in. A collection of stories "Karadi Tales" (currently marketed in audio format) has been expanded into a complete multimedia experience. In these talking books, music and sound effects have been combined to make story telling come alive. Books like Laaloo Bandar, Naath Magarmachh and Rangeela Geedhad are based on the stories of Panchatantra. Children now have the opportunity to read and listen to the stories simultaneously. The stories have been directed by Shobha Vishwanath and illustrated by Mandar Kanvinde. Music has been provided by Narayan Parushuram. Meghna Gulzar also collaborated in the writing . The objective was to inculcate an interest in the reading process and facilitate language learning. Children are required to look at the picture, listen to the tape and eventually concentrate on the print in braille.

Arushi hopes that these books transcribed in Braille will prove to be perfect reading material for the blind children. The Central Bank of India has agreed to sponsor the cost of bringing out the Braille transcription of the books .

Central Bank of India also has the distinction of being the "first ever disabled friendly Bank" in the country by starting an exclusive, specially designed counter for physically challenged at its Arera Colony Branch in Bhopal. The counter is so designed that physically challenged persons can easily carry out their transactions while sitting in a wheel chair. Ramps are also provided in the branch premises to make it barrier free for the disabled.

Source: Gulzar-NGO tie-up for disabled children.
The Sentinel Assam, May 14, 2002, Guwahati