Empowering Lives Through Inclusion: The Genesis of Project Prayas
A landmark initiative aimed at fostering dignity, self-reliance, and social integration unfolded in Kolkata as Prabha Khaitan Foundation formalised a significant partnership with Taj Hotels. Established under Project Prayas—the Foundation’s flagship social inclusion initiative supported by Shree Cement Limited—the partnership aims to empower children and young adults with special needs through structured communication training, confidence-building, and hands-on hospitality exposure.
The proceedings commenced with a traditional ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was industrialist and actor Suhel Seth, alongside key dignitaries including K. Mohanchandran, Senior Vice President of Operations (East & North East) at The Indian Hotels Company Limited, Anindita Chatterjee, Executive Trustee of Prabha Khaitan Foundation, and Parvinder Bual, General Manager of Taj Bengal.
The focal point of the afternoon was the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Prabha Khaitan Foundation and representatives of Taj Hotels in Kolkata. Under this initiative, participants will gain real-world vocational experience by engaging with guests in a professional setting—assisting in welcoming visitors, serving welcome beverages, and supporting daily hospitality operations alongside trained hotel staff.
Delivering an insightful address, Seth reflected on the collective duty of institutions and society to build empowering ecosystems for individuals with special needs, emphasizing that true national progress rests on the pillars of empathy, opportunity, and active inclusion. The ceremony concluded as a heartwarming testament to how collaborative community efforts can create dignified paths toward independence and belonging.
