Kolkata, 22nd September, 2025: On the auspicious eve of Mahalaya, the 8th edition of the prestigious Disha Samman 2025 was held today at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre.
Disha Samman, presented by Disha Eye Hospitals, the largest eye care chain of Eastern India, aims to honour both individuals and organisations that work relentlessly for the welfare of visually challenged individuals. This year’s awardees include Lt Col Dwarakesh as The Youth Icon, Mr Paritosh Biswas for His Inspirational Service and the Blind & Para Judo Association of Bengal for Excellence In Combat Sports.
Lt Col Dwarakesh is an Army officer, based out of Indore, who lost his eyesight on duty yet went on to excel in Paralympic shooting, mountaineering and continues to serve in Army administration while inspiring the youth with his discipline and courage while Mr Paritosh Biswas is a veteran Railway official from Kolkata who has served Eastern Railways for over 36 years as the familiar guiding voice at Sealdah Station despite being visually challenged, inspiring millions of commuters with his service. The Blind & Para Judo Association of Bengal is a pioneering academy that has trained thousands of visually impaired teenagers and young adults in combat sports such as Judo and Martial Arts, producing champions who have brought laurels to the state and nation.
Disha Samman 2025 was graced by the esteemed dignitaries, Air Marshal Ajay Kumar Pan, Sri Rajeev Saxena, Divisional Railway Manager, Eastern Railway, Sealdah Division, Sri Jasram Meena, Sr. Divisional Commercial Manager, Eastern Railway, Sealdah Division, Renowned Singer, Mr Rupankar Bagchi and Dr Debashish Bhattacharya Chairman & Managing Director, Disha Eye Hospitals.
“Through Disha Samman, we aim to honour individuals who transform their challenges into bravery and their hardships into motivation. The awardees this year serve as a reminder that genuine vision is not solely about sight, but also about resilience, service and the capacity to illuminate the path for others.” said Dr Debashish Bhattacharya Chairman & Managing Director, Disha Eye Hospitals.
“A man who knows where he is going will always find his way. Challenges are inevitable, and that is what makes life interesting. To all the young and aspiring souls, my only appeal to you is to think high and embrace new opportunities. Strive to realise your dreams and never let physical limitations determine your goals. It’s my privilege to be honoured as the Youth Icon, with Disha Samman 2025 at the heart of the City of Joy. I’d like to thank Disha Eye Hospitals for their philanthropic efforts in empowering visually impaired individuals,” said Lt Col Dwarakesh.
“Throughout my life, I’ve always believed that determination and hard work can overcome any obstacle. All these years of my service are truly memorable for me and I hope every generation should opt for achieving the best in their life. I hope my work inspires others to pursue their passions regardless of their abilities. I’m really honoured to receive Disha Samman 2025. I want to thank Dr Debasish Bhattacharya for this special recognition for my inspirational service towards the Nation. I’m grateful to the Eastern Railway and all the honorable railway officials for extending all their support and indefinite respect towards me,” said Mr Paritosh Biswas.
“The mission of Blind & Para Judo Association Of Bengal is to empower the visually challenged individuals by training them to excel in Combat Sports and earn a unique identity and develop a very strong personality in their life. Till now, our academy has successfully trained and presented several fine players who have won gold in the international domain and have made the country proud. This award motivates us to continue providing opportunities for such special candidates to excel and reach their full potential. We are really privileged to receive the prestigious 8th Edition of Disha Samman – 2025 for our excellence in Combat Sports,” said Mr Amit Kumar Chourasiya, President, Blind & Para Judo Association Of Bengal.
The 1st Edition of Disha Samman was held in the year 2018. Since these glorious seven years Disha Samman continues to be a platform that celebrates courage, perseverance and the remarkable contributions of those who push the boundaries of what is possible despite the challenges they face.
Disha Samman consisted of a plaque and a cash prize of INR 1,00,000/- to each of the awardees.