Tag: disability inclusion

Events in Goa

International Purple Fest Goa 2025 Announced; Accessible Boardwalk Inaugurated at Miramar Beach

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

The state of Goa is preparing to host the International Purple Fest Goa 2025, a celebration of inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), scheduled from October 9 to 12, 2025. The announcement was made by Minister for Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, Subhash Phal Dessai, during a press briefing attended by key stakeholders including State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar, Director of the Department of Empowerment for PwDs Varsha Naik, Secretary for PwDs Taha Haziq, and Advisory Board member Prakash Kamat.

In a powerful prelude to the fest, the Government of Goa also inaugurated an Accessible Boardwalk at Miramar Beach, a landmark initiative that reinforces the state’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure. The boardwalk will allow Persons with Disabilities safe and dignified access to the beach and even the sea—an experience many have previously been excluded from. The project, developed by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state and is set to become a major highlight of the Purple Fest.

The inauguration was led by Minister for Social Welfare Subhash Phal Dessai and Minister for Tourism Rohan Khaunte, with senior officials from GTDC including Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar present. The effort demonstrates cross-departmental collaboration in pushing forward Goa’s vision for accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment.

With inclusive spaces like Miramar now better equipped to welcome all, and Purple Fest 2025 on the horizon, Goa continues to set the standard for accessibility and dignified participation for all citizens, regardless of ability.

Sports

Divyang Cricket Championship Kicks Off in Ponda Ahead of Purple Fest Goa 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Ponda, Goa | 1st October 2025 – The energy at Ponda Sports Complex soared today as the Divyang Cricket Championship was officially inaugurated, kicking off the much-anticipated pre-events for the International Purple Fest Goa 2025. A tribute to ability, resilience, and community spirit, this inclusive sporting event sets the tone for what promises to be the most impactful edition of the Purple Fest yet.

Cricket, long cherished in India, took on a new meaning today — one that transcends boundaries and showcases how sports can empower people of all abilities. The event welcomed para-athletes and divyang (persons with disabilities) cricketers from across regions, drawing attention to the importance of accessibility and equal opportunity in sports.

The Purple Fest has always stood for inclusion, dignity, and visibility — and this cricket championship represents all of that and more. The players, representing courage and excellence, took to the pitch not just to compete, but to inspire. Their performances were met with cheers from an enthusiastic crowd, including families, community members, and supporters of the larger disability rights movement.

This event is not just a game; it’s a statement — that inclusion in sport is not just possible, it’s essential. As we count down to Purple Fest Goa 2025, the Divyang Cricket Championship reminds us of the extraordinary things that happen when accessibility meets opportunity.

The match may have started in Ponda, but its impact is already echoing far beyond the field.

Travel

Goa Hosts First-Ever Inclusive Boat Cruise to Mark International Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

In a landmark celebration of International Tourism Day 2025, Goa took a historic step toward inclusive tourism by hosting its first-ever Inclusive Boat Cruise on September 26, 2025. Organized by the Travel & Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, this unique initiative offered persons with disabilities the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Mandovi River—a privilege often denied due to both physical and attitudinal barriers.

The cruise, which began from the Santa Monica Jetty in Panaji, welcomed over 60 participants with disabilities, despite heavy rains. Around 15 volunteers without disabilities joined them, not as aides but as equal participants, creating a truly inclusive atmosphere. For many, especially adult participants with disabilities from diverse professions such as teaching, entrepreneurship, government service, and para sports, this was their first time on a boat cruise—an experience both joyful and empowering.

Unlike previous efforts that largely focused on school students with disabilities, this event broke new ground by engaging adults, reflecting a broader and more inclusive vision. It emphasized that persons with disabilities are not just recipients of support but contributors to social and cultural life. This shift in narrative is critical in building a society that sees inclusion as a norm, not an exception.

Director of the Department of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, highlighted that the enthusiastic response to the cruise was a powerful indicator of the growing interest in community-based, inclusive tourism in Goa. He affirmed the department’s commitment to continue curating such experiences across the state, which reflect Goa’s dedication to diversity, accessibility, and sustainability.

The concept of the Inclusive Cruise was initiated by Shri Jack Sukhija, President of TTAG, whose vision and commitment turned an ambitious idea into a heartwarming reality. His leadership, along with the backing of key tourism stakeholders, ensured that the event was not only accessible but dignified and celebratory.

Shri Vishant Nagvekar, member of the State Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities and a participant in the cruise, expressed deep gratitude to the organizers. He emphasized that this event went beyond symbolic inclusion. It created a rare and much-needed platform for persons with disabilities to connect, share life experiences, and feel genuinely seen and valued. Such events, he noted, are essential for building inclusive communities where stories of resilience, courage, and everyday victories can be shared and celebrated.

As the cruise sailed through Goa’s scenic river under cloudy skies, the participants laughed, danced, and connected with one another. The rain could not dampen the spirit of what was clearly more than just a ride—it was a statement. A statement that accessible tourism is not just desirable but absolutely achievable when intention meets action.

Goa’s first Inclusive Boat Cruise is not the final destination but the beginning of a new journey—one where every person, regardless of ability, has the right to explore, participate, and enjoy the world around them.

Events in Goa

Celebrating Inclusion Through Sports: The Inclusive Run Comes to Panaji on 12 October 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

On 24 September 2025, a vibrant press conference unveiled The Inclusive Run, an inspiring sports initiative designed to celebrate inclusion and empower participants of all abilities. Set to take place on 12 October in Panaji, Goa, The Inclusive Run is a collaborative effort between the Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation and the International Purple Fest Goa 2025.

This event aims to bring together over 500 participants—people with disabilities alongside those without—in a collective celebration of sport, accessibility, and community. By fostering an environment that encourages participation from everyone, The Inclusive Run seeks to break down societal barriers, promote empathy, and amplify the voices of differently-abled individuals through the universal language of sports.

The run is more than just a race; it is a movement to highlight the importance of disability inclusion and to demonstrate how sport can be a powerful tool for social change. Sign language interpretation, accessible facilities, and other supportive measures will ensure that all participants can engage fully and joyfully.

The Inclusive Run aligns with the broader goals of the International Purple Fest Goa 2025, which champions disability rights, accessibility, and universal diversity through a series of cultural and sporting events. Together with Adventures Beyond Barriers Foundation, the festival continues to pave the way for greater empowerment and visibility for disabled communities in India.

As excitement builds for the event, organizers invite the public, media, and sports enthusiasts to join in the celebration on 12 October, witness inspiring stories of courage and determination, and contribute to a more inclusive society where everyone can enjoy the benefits and joy of sports.

Social

Aamir Khan Meets Minister Subhash Phal Dessai to Support Purple Fest & Disability Inclusion

Tanisha Cardozo

Hon’ble Minister Shri Subhash Phal Dessai recently engaged in a productive and meaningful conversation with one of India’s most respected film personalities, Mr. Aamir Khan, to discuss the upcoming Purple Fest and the broader vision for empowering Persons with Disabilities. The meeting marked a significant convergence of government initiative and influential advocacy, setting the tone for impactful collaborations.

Mr. Aamir Khan, often hailed as the “Mr. Perfectionist” of Indian cinema, is known for pushing creative and social boundaries through his films. With titles such as Lagaan, Taare Zameen Par, and Dangal under his belt, Khan has long used his platform to raise awareness about critical societal issues. His alignment with the goals of the Purple Fest — a unique celebration dedicated to inclusivity and accessibility — is both timely and inspiring.

During the interaction, Minister Phal Dessai shared insights into the various programs being implemented to ensure greater inclusion and support for Persons with Disabilities in Goa and beyond. He emphasized that platforms like Purple Fest are not merely celebratory events but catalysts for long-term change and awareness. The Minister expressed optimism that with Mr. Khan’s encouragement and visibility, these efforts would gain wider reach and deeper resonance across the country.

Aamir Khan expressed genuine interest and support for the mission, reiterating the importance of community participation, systemic inclusion, and dignity for all citizens regardless of ability. His involvement is expected to bring nationwide attention to the festival and reinforce the message of inclusive development.

The collaboration between thought leaders in governance and culture reflects a shared commitment to building a society that leaves no one behind. As preparations for the Purple Fest gather momentum, this meeting is a promising sign of the impactful conversations and actions yet to come.