‘Purple Fest’ at Rashtrapati Bhavan Promotes Inclusivity and Awareness on Disabilities

New Delhi:  In a vibrant display of inclusivity, the Amrit Udyan in Rashtrapati Bhavan played host to the day-long ‘Purple Fest’ organized by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, today. The event, held on February 26, 2024, saw active participation from more than 14,000 visitors.

The highlight of the fest was the presence of the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, who graced the occasion and witnessed cultural performances by Divyangjan, individuals with disabilities. Following the cultural extravaganza, President Murmu took the time to meet and interact with the performers, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.

The ‘Purple Fest’ aimed at creating awareness about different disabilities and their impact on individuals’ lives, with a primary focus on promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of persons with disabilities within society. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment curated a diverse range of activities to engage and educate visitors throughout the day.

Among the various activities, the ‘Know your disabilities’ booth provided valuable information to attendees, helping them understand different disabilities and challenges faced by individuals. The ‘Purple Cafe’ offered a unique culinary experience, showcasing the talents and skills of differently-abled individuals in the culinary arts.

The ‘Purple Kaleidoscope’ section exhibited artwork and creative expressions by Divyangjan, highlighting their talents and abilities beyond their disabilities. The ‘Purple Live Experience Zone’ provided an immersive experience for visitors to step into the shoes of individuals with disabilities, fostering empathy and understanding.

For sports enthusiasts, the ‘Purple Sports’ segment featured inclusive sports activities, breaking down barriers and showcasing the prowess of athletes with disabilities. The fest aimed to break stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding disabilities while celebrating the resilience and achievements of Divyangjan.

President Murmu commended the efforts of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in organizing such a significant event, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive society that values and embraces diversity.

The ‘Purple Fest’ serves as a commendable initiative, contributing to the ongoing national dialogue on inclusivity and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. It is expected that such events will continue to shape public perceptions, fostering a society that is compassionate, understanding, and truly inclusive.