Ahmedabad, July 28, 2025: Sense International India, a national NGO dedicated to supporting individuals with deafblindness, hosted the 11th edition of its annual flagship event, ‘Messengers On Cycles’ (MOC), at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. The initiative, which combines a cyclothon and walkathon, brought together hundreds of participants — including persons with disabilities, families, corporate supporters, and volunteers — to raise awareness about deafblindness and advocate for greater inclusion and accessibility.
The event was marked by the launch of the Global Resource Hub (GRH) on Deafblindness — a first-of-its-kind digital platform designed to serve as a central knowledge repository. The GRH offers practical tools, multilingual training materials, research resources, and policy guidance tailored for persons with deafblindness, their families, educators, NGOs, and policymakers.
“As we celebrate the 11th edition of Messengers On Cycles, this Cyclothon and Walkathon is more than just a movement—it’s a powerful tribute to Helen Keller’s extraordinary legacy and the values she championed: inclusion, empowerment and equal opportunity for all. Every step walked and every mile cycled represents our unwavering commitment to building a world where persons with deafblindness and multiple disabilities are seen, heard and valued,” said Biju Mathew, Chief Operating Officer, Sense International India.
Over the years, MOC has evolved into one of Ahmedabad’s most anticipated charity events. Last year’s edition saw over 1,000 participants and was flagged off by the Chief Minister of Gujarat. This year, the event was originally scheduled for June 29 but was respectfully postponed due to a tragic plane crash in the city. “We stand with the families of all those who lost their lives. They will be remembered and honoured at this event,” Mathew added.
The launch of the Global Resource Hub marks a significant milestone for the deafblind community in India and globally. “The launch of the Global Resource Hub on deafblindness marks a defining moment — not just for India, but for the world,” said Uttam Kumar, Chief Executive Officer, Sense International India. “For too long, accessible and practical information on deafblindness has been fragmented or out of reach. This Hub bridges that gap by offering a one-stop platform— a collaborative knowledge ecosystem, with accessible and actionable content to promote inclusive education and policy implementation.”
The event also featured immersive activities such as Bollywood Zumba, interactive games, and a Deafblind Experience Zone, allowing participants to experience the challenges of living without sight or sound.
Sense International India has empowered over 80,000 individuals with deafblindness and multiple disabilities since its inception in 1997. The organization works with 63 partners across 24 states and has played a pivotal role in the inclusion of deafblindness in India’s Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
The ‘Messengers On Cycles’ continues to be a symbol of collective action and empathy, promoting a future where every individual, regardless of ability, is included and valued.
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