Purple Fest 2025 celebrates inclusion, talent and empowerment of Divyangjan
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC), in collaboration with Amity University, Uttar Pradesh (Noida), hosted the Purple Fest 2025 on September 10–11, celebrating creativity, inclusion, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities (Divyangjan).
Inauguration and key messages
The fest was inaugurated by Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), and Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Amity University.
Dr. Shukla said purple symbolizes equality, dignity, and confidence, stressing that Divyangjan are not weak but uniquely gifted. Nanda highlighted the importance of inclusion and awareness about assistive devices, noting that such devices are a right that enables independence and self-respect.
Recognition of achievement
During the ceremony, a Certificate of Appreciation was awarded to Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deafblind Indian to secure a government job under the multiple disabled category in the Commercial Tax Department of Madhya Pradesh.
Highlights of Purple Fest 2025
Art and craft exhibition: Showcased creative works of Divyangjan.
Entrepreneurship stalls (22 stalls): Offered a platform for Divyangjan entrepreneurs.
Cultural programmes and sports events: Demonstrated diversity and talent.
Continuing rehabilitation education (CRE) sessions: Focused on strengthening professional knowledge in Indian Sign Language (ISL).
Purple Fest 2025 conveyed a strong message: Disability is not weakness, assistive devices are not charity, and respect is not a favor—it is a right.
