Every Smile Belongs

The fourth edition of Cleft Con India took place on September 20, 2025, in Kolkata, West Bengal. Smile Train India’s signature event brought cleft-affected individuals and their families together with medical professionals, donors, and supporters from across the country to celebrate the power of inclusion and self-acceptance. What began as a small annual initiative in 2022 has since evolved into a vibrant platform for the Indian cleft community to connect, learn, and celebrate each other’s journeys.

This year’s theme, “Every Smile Belongs,” beautifully set the tone for a day of interactive sessions, creative performances, and candid conversations.

The speakers and panels delved into real and relatable experiences – from facing bullying and social exclusion to rebuilding confidence in the teenage years, in the workplace, and beyond. Each conversation highlighted that life with a cleft goes far beyond surgery — it’s about self-belief, acceptance, and belonging.  

A standout moment was when actor and philanthropist Ritabhari Chakraborty was named Smile Train India’s new Goodwill Ambassador. Her heartfelt words on empathy and inclusion deeply resonated with the audience as she pledged to lend her voice to Smile Train’s work and stand up for cleft-affected individuals. 

Another highlight was the presentation of the annual Smile Maker Award. This year’s honorees were the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, Government of West Bengal, and Haleon India for their commitment to supporting Smile Train’s work.

As the day came to a close, one message echoed through every heart: When our community comes together with empathy and purpose, every smile truly belongs.

Initiatives like Cleft Con are just one more way Smile Train India is building cleft awareness throughout the country, strengthening connections among the Indian cleft community, and championing a world where every child has the opportunity to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.