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Sambhaavna 2026 celebrates inclusion and family at the Museum of the Future
The carnival featured performances across singing, dancing, musical instruments, and other creative talents
- PUBLISHED: Fri 6 Feb 2026, 9:14 AM
Eduscan Institute successfully hosted the 8th edition of Sambhaavna 2026, A Carnival of Hope, at the iconic Museum of the Future, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and dignity for children of determination.
Founded over three decades ago by award-winning psychologist Dr Alka Kalra, Eduscan Institute has been a pioneering force in special education, inclusion, and teacher training in the UAE. Sambhaavna remains its flagship socio-cultural CSR initiative, offering children a celebratory platform to express their talents and build confidence.
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The UAE Talent Hunt for Children of Determination, in collaboration with Khaleej Times and Krishnamurti World School, receiving 104 entries from schools, centres, institutes, and universities across the UAE. The event was graced by chief guest Sheikha Hend bint Faisal Al Qasimi, along with distinguished guests of honour including Yakoob Al Ali; Dr G. S. Patnaik, chairman of St. Xavier’s Chain of Schools and title sponsor of the event; Ghanim Al Falasi, senior vice-president – technology and entrepreneurship; Dr Ankur Aggarwal, chairman and founder of BNW Developments; and Vandana Sudhir, wife of former Ambassador of India to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir.
In alignment with the UAE’s declaration of 2026 as the 'Year of the Family', over 120 children performed on stage, many of them joined by their parents, reinforcing the message that inclusion begins at home and thrives through shared experiences.
The carnival featured performances across singing, dancing, musical instruments, and other creative talents. Highlights included a Wheelchair Dance, a Walk of Confidence featuring Children of Determination alongside 12 cancer warriors, mindfulness yoga performance, and group singing of “We Are the World”, “My Own Superhero”, and the Sambhaavna Anthem.
A key segment of the evening was Music for Mental Health, featuring artists from the Indian Idol platform, including Swaraj Singh Thakur and Sangeeta Padhy, alongside Dr G. S. Patnaik, highlighting the therapeutic power of music in emotional well-being.
Through Sambhaavna 2026, Eduscan Institute continues to champion inclusion and ability, reminding society that when every child is given a platform, hope becomes a shared celebration.
