Mumbai: In a heartwarming event at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF), Divyang students from Sanskar Dham Vidyalaya and Victoria Memorial School for the Blind enjoyed a special screening of films interpreted in Indian Sign Language. This initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity featured episodes of “Little Krishna,” “The Crossover,” and “Jai Jagannath,” with special audio descriptions to ensure an immersive experience for all attendees.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including Alok Kejriwal, Founder & CEO of India Signing Hands; Brij Kothari, Faculty at IIT Delhi; Abraham Uthup, Senior VP at Toonz Media; Methil Devika, Dancer & Researcher; Prithul Kumar, Festival Director & Joint Secretary, Broadcasting, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; and Sreerag M, Officer on Special Duty, Films, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Over 50 students from the two schools attended the special screening, offering an overwhelming and positive response to the films presented.
The organizers of MIFF highlighted the significant steps taken this year to ensure the festival was more inclusive than ever before. For the first time, the entire MIFF team underwent training to cultivate a culture of inclusivity and empathy. The festival venue itself was restructured to be Divyang-friendly, ensuring that persons with disabilities could fully enjoy the films and activities at the event.
Alok Kejriwal, Founder of India Signing Hands, lauded the efforts of NFDC and the MIFF team. “I appreciate the significant efforts taken by NFDC and the MIFF team to create a welcoming and accessible environment for Divyang individuals. This inclusive atmosphere and the necessary facilities provided ensure that everyone can enjoy the magic of cinema,” he said.
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