After more than two decades of moving between rented houses, visually impaired couple Suresh and his wife Pankajam now have a permanent home of their own. Different Art Centre made this long cherished dream a reality by constructing a disability friendly house for the couple under its Magik Home project.

The keys to the newly built house at Cheekkilode in Nanminda, Kozhikode district, were formally handed over, marking the completion of another home under the Magik Home initiative. The project aims to provide free, thoughtfully designed houses that address the everyday needs of the differently abled. The 620 square-foot house was built on four cents of land generously donated by Nanminda native Mustafa Kamal, with financial support from Ibnujala, CEO, Finquo Versity.

Expressing deep emotion, Suresh said owning a safe and secure home had always felt beyond reach. “We never imagined we would live in a house like this. The happiness of living safely under our own roof is beyond words,” he said, thanking Gopinath Muthukad and the team for their unwavering support.

The key handover ceremony was attended by actor and filmmaker, Joy Mathew, actor Surabhi Lakshmi, and writer Srikanth Kottakkal. The event was held in the presence of Gopinath Muthukad, Executive Director, Different Art Center and Shyla Thomas, Director, Different Art Center who joined in celebrating the couple’s new beginning.

Addressing the gathering, Joy Mathew said the initiative was noteworthy for going beyond the idea of shelter to create homes that respect the dignity and specific needs of the differently abled. Actor Surabhi Lakshmi echoed the sentiment, noting that even small acts of support can bring immense comfort and confidence, and described the Magik Home project as “real magic.”

Abdul Manaf, MD, VPM Constructions, who oversaw the construction, and Mustafa Kamal, who donated the land, were honoured with ponnada and mementoes in recognition of their valuable contributions.