The foundation stone for Thantedam, a theme park for women empowerment was laid in Kozhikode by Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Deekshit via a video conference. The park will be built at Vellimadukunnu.
Hundreds of women attended the Gender fest valedictory function and foundation stone laying for Gender Park, organized at Calicut beach open stage.
Minister for social welfare Dr. M. K. Muneer presided over the function.
As part of honoring 101 women in various fields, twenty four were honored on the Dais. From amongst them, Indian sprint queen PT Usha was selected as SthreeRathna. Union Minister E. Ahammad gave away the prestigious Sthree ratna award to P. T. Usha.
Ahalya Sankar, C.K Janu, Leela Menon, Kalamandalam Kshemavathy, K.P.A.C Lalita were some of the celebrities who received accolades.
Announcement was made regarding the launch of a Gender University at the event.
A.P AnilKumar, P.K Abdurabb, P.K.Kunhalikkutty, Mayor Prof. A.K. Premajam, A. Pradeep Kumar MLA. District Collector Dr. P.B. Saleem, M.S Jaya also participated.
Chief Minister, Oommen Chandy addressed the audience through video conferencing.
Senior women journalist of yesteryears in Kozhikode V.Parukkutty Amma was honored at her residence.
Twenty five young female film makers were also honored at the function.
Various arts, cultural, literary activities were held at different venues in the city to promote the message of women empowerment. Seminars, medical camps, food festival, film shows, women writer’s camp, sports event etc also attracted thousands of women to Gender Fest, which was held for nine days.
