CHAIRPERSON

Tragically, her mother lost the battle with cancer. The grief of this loss, combined with the weight of responsibility, thrust young Dhanya into adulthood far too soon. She was no longer just a daughter or a sister—she became a second mother, a protector, and a silent warrior for her siblings.

 

Those early trials didn’t harden her—they deepened her empathy. It’s this lived experience of suffering, love, and sacrifice that now allows her to connect so profoundly with the children and families she serves.

 

A Lifelong Mission of Empowerment

Married to Mr. Ballachanda Uthappa of Kadangamurur, Dhanya went on to channel her experiences into a life of service. Her vision culminated in the creation of Devdan Special School, a nurturing space for children with diverse disabilities such as:

 

Intellectual Disabilities

 

Cerebral Palsy

 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

 

Down Syndrome

 

Devdan provides a unique blend of early academics, vocational training, gardening, baking, music therapy, art therapy, and life skills. It's more than a school—it's a sanctuary for growth, inclusion, and dignity.

 

Partnering for Change

Working alongside Mr. Kotera Dilip Devaiah, a behavior therapist and counselor, Dhanya ensures that Devdan also serves as a support system for parents—many of whom come feeling lost, judged, and hopeless. Here, they find guidance, warmth, and empowerment.

 

A Trailblazer in Every Sense

After completing her studies at Sri Rama Trust School, Napoklu, and receiving specialized training from the Spastic Society in Bangalore, Dhanya served in inclusive teaching roles at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Mysore, and Phoenix International School. She has always believed that every child, regardless of ability, has something special to offer—and she has spent her life proving it.

 

Raising Her Voice for the Voiceless

Dhanya has used her voice as a powerful tool for advocacy. Through live interviews on All India Radio (Akashvani Mysore) and SYVM Sargur FM, she educates the public, dismantles stigma, and fosters understanding about the lives of specially-abled children.

 

Making History Through Inclusion

In a landmark achievement, Dhanya founded Asia’s first Interact Club for special children, in collaboration with Rotary International—a breakthrough moment in global Rotary history. As the Rotarian Youth President of Rotary E-Club Mysore, she continues to champion inclusive leadership and youth empowerment.

 

Educating Parents, Uplifting Families

As a Master Trainer with the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and an expert in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dhanya leads regular workshops for parents. Her sessions offer more than just information—they offer hope, healing, and a roadmap for navigating a complex journey with love and strength.

 

More Than an Educator: A Coach, A Role Model, A Changemaker

Her multifaceted life includes:

 

Serving as Head Coach for Athletics, representing Karnataka in the Special Olympics

 

Representing Mysore in the Mrs. Karnataka 2018 pageant, redefining what it means to be a modern woman—one who leads with heart, confidence, and purpose

 

From Struggle to Strength, From Pain to Purpose

Dhanya’s vision at Devdan is not limited to classroom education. She advocates for self-employment training, vocational skills, and hands-on learning—building real-world opportunities for children who are often left behind. Her programs help families bridge the gap between disability and livelihood, offering dignity and stability.

 

A Living Legacy of Love and Leadership

Ballachanda Dhanya Ponnamma Uthappa is not just an educator—she is a torchbearer of hope, a mother to many, a champion of inclusion, and a survivor who turned her scars into strength. Her life story is one of heartbreak, hard work, and healing—and today, it fuels the dreams of hundreds of specially-abled children and their families.

 

At Devdan Special School, she continues to redefine what’s possible—one child, one family, and one beautiful breakthrough at a time.