Golden Sparrow: A Soaring Celebration of Womanhood
By Lalitha Sriram, Event Secretary – Golden Sparrow
On April 19, 2025, the campus of St. Thomas College, Chennai, transformed into a vibrant haven of grace, unity, and empowerment, as Rotary District 3233 celebrated Golden Sparrow – a landmark event dedicated to the spirit of womanhood. Conceptualized by the women of Rotary, for every woman in our community, Golden Sparrow was more than just a gathering – it was a radiant expression of strength, elegance, and the power of sisterhood.
Like the golden sparrow itself – a symbol of beauty, resilience, and freedom – this event brought together women from across the district to celebrate their unique strengths: compassion, creativity, leadership, and an unstoppable spirit.
The event commenced on an uplifting note with a soul-stirring violin performance and the ceremonial lighting of the kuthuvilakku, setting the tone for a day that was equal parts celebratory and soulful. Hon’ble Mayor of Chennai, Ms. Priya Rajan, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while the ever-inspiring Ms. Parveen Sultana was honoured as the Special Awardee.
Designed to be “informative, informal, interactive, impromptu, and inspiring,” the day featured an exciting mix of sessions. Highlights included Thandavam, and Bold Becoming Beautiful – a series of health and wellness talks by a panel of dynamic doctors. Cultural performances, including high-energy international dances, kept spirits soaring and the audience fully engaged.
Adding flavour to the celebration were a variety of games – Rotary and music quizzes, Thambola with a twist, and even a stand-up comedy segment. The event also celebrated the achievements of Annettes with special awards. Powerful addresses by Vanitha IPS and PDG Ananda Jothi lit up the venue with inspiration and emotion.
A surprise flash mob brought the house down, embodying the boundless energy that had defined the entire day.
None of this would have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of multiple committees – Registration, Programs and Entertainment, Sponsorship, Stalls, Catering, Media and Publicity, and Kits – each of which worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
Special gratitude goes to District First Lady Rtn. Jayashree Bothra for her vision and mentoring spirit, Event Chair Dr. Sujatha Srinivasan for her inspiring leadership, and PDGs Nazar, Srinivasan, and AP Kanna for their steadfast support. Co-Chair Rtn. Anees Begam and Treasurer Rtn. Mohini Sriram were the pillars of strength in making this dream a reality.
Golden Sparrow didn’t just celebrate womanhood – it sparked hearts, amplified energy, and gave us wings.
As the curtains fell, it wasn’t the end – it was the beginning of a new, empowered journey for the women of Rotary.
