Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The stage is set for India’s largest and most inclusive celebration of ability and accessibility, as International Purple Fest – Goa 2025 officially announced its 21 Purple Ambassadors. These inspiring individuals—each representing a unique disability—will lead the movement for inclusivity at the much-anticipated event scheduled from October 9 to 12, 2025, in Goa.
The announcement was made at a special event attended by key dignitaries, including Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Hon’ble Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Government of Goa; Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary, Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India; and other senior officials from the Government of Goa and partner organisations.
This year’s cohort of 21 Purple Ambassadors reflects the spirit of grassroots inclusion with majority women representation, participation from rural India, and strong local presence with three ambassadors from Goa. Each ambassador was selected through a rigorous nomination process, recognizing individuals with lived experience, leadership potential, and a commitment to disability advocacy.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, said:
“These 21 Purple Ambassadors are not just representatives; they are change-makers leading India’s movement for inclusion. Their voices will help us break barriers and build a society rooted in accessibility, equity, and dignity for all.”
Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary, Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, added:
“Purple Fest has become a beacon for inclusive action. This year’s diverse selection of ambassadors ensures strong community participation and advocacy, setting new benchmarks for empowerment and accessibility.”
Mr. Shombi Sharp, UN Resident Coordinator in India, emphasized the global relevance of the initiative:
“The appointment of these ambassadors is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring no one is left behind. Their presence underscores the power of inclusion—especially from women and rural communities.”
Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, noted:
“The Purple Ambassadors are the heart of this festival. They bring lived experiences that enrich the discourse on rights-based empowerment. Goa is proud to be the torchbearer of such a transformative initiative.”
Mrs. Varsha Naik, Director, Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Govt. of Goa, said:
“Every Purple Ambassador has been chosen not just for who they are, but for what they stand for. Their journey will amplify unheard voices and deepen the movement for an inclusive India.”
As official champions of the Purple Fest movement, the 21 ambassadors will:
• Represent and advocate for their respective disability communities.
• Lead outreach efforts both online and offline to promote Purple Fest.
• Participate actively in key Fest sessions and accessibility consultations.
• Provide feedback on Fest programming to enhance inclusion.
• Continue post-Fest advocacy in their local communities.
The Purple Ambassador initiative forms a core part of the festival’s identity, which promotes the values of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. By representing each of the 21 recognized disabilities, the ambassadors embody the festival’s mission—to celebrate ability and dismantle barriers to inclusion.
With this announcement, the organizing committee invites the public, private sector, civil society, and citizens from across the nation to participate in International Purple Fest – Goa 2025.
This year’s edition promises to be more vibrant, diverse, and impactful—anchored by the leadership of the Purple Ambassadors.
To learn more, visit www.purplefest.goa.gov.in or follow updates on social media using:
#PurpleFestGoa2025 | #CelebrateAbility
The official Purple Fest app is now available for download on Android and iOS platforms under the name International Purple Fest.
