In a heartwarming and impactful celebration, Caculo Mall in Panjim transformed into a hub of inclusivity as it hosted the International Week of the Deaf and the International Day of Sign Languages. Held from September 22, 2025, the event marked the beginning of a three-day initiative that highlighted empowerment, accessibility, and the importance of communication inclusion.
The celebration was coordinated by Mrs. Sadiya Bandodkar, a dynamic entrepreneur and Purple Ambassador for the upcoming International Purple Fest Goa 2025. The event also served as a prelude to the anticipated Purple Fest scheduled for October 9th to 12th.
Jointly organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa, the Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, the Goa Association of the Deaf, and Mrs. Bandodkar herself, the event brought together stakeholders, performers, and the community under one inclusive roof.
The inaugural day began with an engaging Indian Sign Language awareness session aimed at sensitizing attendees and encouraging more inclusive communication. A key highlight of the evening was a Navratri-themed dance performance by a group of deaf women, which captivated the audience with its grace and energy, drawing admiration and thunderous applause.
The event welcomed prominent guests including Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities; Smt. Varsha Naik, Director of the Department of Empowerment of PwDs; Shri Mangesh Dalvi from Caculo Mall; Shri Prasad Joshi, General Secretary of the Goa Association of the Deaf; Shri Avelino D’Sa, President of the Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG), and Mrs. Sadiya Bandodkar.
In his address, Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar emphasized that such initiatives must not be limited to a week, but should act as catalysts for continuous advocacy, awareness, and systemic change. Mrs. Bandodkar, expressing her gratitude, thanked all collaborators for making the event a success and for supporting efforts to create opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Throughout the three days, the pop-up market continues to be a major draw, with stalls managed by entrepreneurs with disabilities, offering everything from handmade crafts to innovative products. It’s not just a market; it’s a message — that talent knows no bounds and inclusion starts with opportunity.
This celebration stands as a testament to what can be achieved when government bodies, private partners, and individuals come together to champion accessibility. It sets the tone for the upcoming Purple Fest Goa 2025 and reaffirms the commitment to a more inclusive, aware, and empowered society.
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