Goa is renowned for its vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes, and lively festivals. January, in particular, is a month that witnesses an array of festivities. Starting from January 08, Goa will host International Purple Fest, India’s first inclusive festival celebrating people with disabilities.
What Is International Purple Fest?
Purple Fest is India’s first-of-its-kind inclusive festival honouring people with disabilities invites you to a world of limitless possibilities, where unity reigns supreme and diversity is welcomed with open arms. The International Purple Fest 2024, which begins on January 8 in Goa, will draw over 8,000 people.
According to an article by Money Control, the assessment camps will be held and free aid will be supplied throughout the festival. The Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India (ALIMCO) unit at Goa Medical College and Hospital will provide immediate access to artificial limbs, obviating the need for waiting periods after assessment.
The festival will take place from January 8 to January 13. In the run-up to the festival, awareness campaigns about PWDs were organised across Goa, and orientation courses were arranged for 1,200 Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) drivers and conductors. During the festival, 30 wheelchair-accessible e-rickshaws will be introduced. The International Purple Fest aims to sensitise people through talks on various issues and interactive zones presenting first-hand experiences of various disabilities.
The festival is a collaborative effort of Goa-based non-governmental organisations (NGOs) including SETHU, SANGATH, the National Association of Blind (NAB Goa), the Goa Special Schools’ Association (GSSA), Caritas, the Goa Deaf Association (GDF), the Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG), the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa (DAIG), and the Haemophilia Society Goa (HSG).
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Why Such Festivals Are Important?
Purple experience zones at the festival will let attendees put themselves in the shoes of persons who are blind, have neuro-diverse disabilities, have upper limb problems, or have learning challenges. There will also be Purple zones that will provide practical solutions to the issues of inclusive education from kindergarten to post-graduation, as well as inclusive teaching approaches. The International Purple Fest is organised by the state commissioner for disabled people and the Department of Social Welfare. This year, a distinct department for people with disabilities is also planned.
Health festivals for disabled individuals play a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity, raising awareness, and promoting overall well-being. Such activities not only enhance mobility but also promote a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. These festivals address physical, mental, and emotional health needs, promote community building, and serve as platforms for advocacy and awareness.
So, what do you think of this one-of-a-kind event?
Dates: 8th-13th January, 2024
Where: Panjim, Goa
Please check here for more updates
Cover image credits: Instagram/International Purple Fest