The Faculty of Occupational Therapy, MAHER, organized ‘Reflections 25’, a two-day National Conference on Holistic Rehabilitation, on 27th and 28th June 2025 at the MAHER Auditorium. With the theme “Breaking the Complexities in Rehabilitation”, the conference brought together leading professionals, researchers, educators, and students to promote inclusive, interdisciplinary, and person-centered approaches in rehabilitation. True to its inclusive spirit, the entire event was interpreted in Indian Sign Language by Mrs. Vijaya Baskaran.
Day 1 Highlights – 27th June 2025
The conference began with Tamil Thai Vazhthu and the lighting of the kuthuvilakku. Prof. Deepa Sundareswaran, Principal, Faculty of Occupational Therapy, delivered the welcome address. Prof. Dr. V. Sureka, Registrar, MAHER, gave the inaugural address, followed by a keynote speech by Dr. Roopa Nagarajan (SRIHER, DU).
The first scientific session featured talks by Dr. S. Subramanian (Smrithi Healthcare & NISHTA) on early neurodevelopmental intervention and Dr. Sujatha Missal (KMCH) on pediatric rehabilitation. In the second session, Dr. Krupa M. (Sri Ramachandra University), Dr. B.S. Santhosh Kanna, and Dr. Rajesh Ramachandran (NIEPMD) addressed accessibility, inclusive communication, and community-based strategies. Post-lunch, Mr. Karthikeyan Ganesan (Sristi Foundation) spoke on independent living for persons with disabilities.
The day concluded with scientific paper and poster presentations chaired by Dr. P. Punitha (Saveetha College of OT) and Dr. Raghuram P. (Sri Ramachandra Faculty of OT), where participants showcased research aligned with the conference theme.
Day 2 Highlights – 28th June 2025
Day 2 began with medical updates by Dr. G. Balamurali (Kauvery Spine Institute & HAMSA) on spine and neurosurgery, Dr. Hitesh Gupta (BLK-Max Hospital) on onco-rehabilitation and dysphagia, and Dr. Vinoth Kumar T. (Srinivas University) on hand rehabilitation.
A panel discussion moderated by Mrs. Hasti Divecha (FOT, MAHER) explored the conference theme with insights from Prof. Deepa Sundareswaran, Mrs. Subha R. (Aadhuraa Special School), Dr. Vasantha Priya J. (Arulmigu Meenakshi College of Nursing), and Dr. Shakthi Akash (Meenakshi Ammal Dental College).
The afternoon sessions included policy and practice talks by Mr. Rajat Srivastava (National Centre for Good Governance), Mrs. Sarah Daniel (SCARF, Chennai) on mental health, Mr. Shankar Subbiah (Agate Infotek) on assistive technologies, and Dr. Sebestina Anita D’souza (Manipal College of Health Professions, MAHE) on geriatric rehabilitation.
Valedictory & Conclusion
The conference concluded with a valedictory ceremony recognizing organizers, presenters, and winners of the best paper, poster, and Reels competitions. Dr. Pooja Sanghvi, UNICEF Consultant (TN), praised the event for fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing holistic rehabilitation.
Reflections 25 succeeded in encouraging innovative dialogue, research sharing, and practical strategies that reimagine rehabilitation beyond clinical boundaries—embracing physical, mental, social, and environmental well-being.
