Why in news?
Purple Fest 2025 was organised by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre in collaboration with Amity University at Noida. The festival celebrated the creativity, rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities through art exhibitions, entrepreneurship stalls, sports and cultural events.
Background
India has made significant progress in disability rights in recent years. The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 recognises 21 categories of disabilities and mandates inclusive education, barrier‑free access and reservation in jobs. Schemes like the Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) aim to make public infrastructure usable by everyone. However social stigma and lack of awareness still isolate many persons with disabilities. Purple Fest was conceived as a platform to celebrate diversity, spread awareness about assistive technology and showcase the talents of persons with disabilities.
Key features of the festival
- Art and craft exhibition: Displays featured paintings, sculptures, textiles and handmade products created by differently‑abled artists and artisans.
- Entrepreneurship stalls: Twenty‑two stalls run by persons with disabilities showcased small businesses ranging from food processing to digital design, highlighting self‑reliance and innovation.
- Cultural and sports events: Inclusive sporting competitions, dance performances and music shows emphasised participation rather than competition. Sign language interpreters ensured accessibility.
- Training and awareness: Continuing Rehabilitation Education sessions focused on Indian Sign Language, assistive technologies and rights‑based approaches. Workshops introduced parents and teachers to inclusive teaching methods.
- Recognition: Certificates were awarded to achievers like Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deaf‑blind Indian to secure a government job under the multiple disability category.
Significance
Purple Fest demonstrates that inclusion is a cultural and economic imperative, not just a legal obligation. By celebrating talent and entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities, it challenges stereotypes of dependency. The festival also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals’ call to “leave no one behind”. Similar events across the country can mainstream sign language, encourage accessible design and promote empathy among the wider public.