Panaji: Goa is all set to host the third edition of the International Purple Fest from October 9 to 12, bringing together delegates, artists, and changemakers from across India and the world to celebrate inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment. The four-day festival will feature cultural showcases, creative performances, and discussions aimed at promoting the rights and potential of persons with disabilities.
The inaugural ceremony will be graced by Chief Guest Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, and Union Ministers Dr. Virendra Kumar, Shri Shripad Naik, and Dr. Ramdas Athawale, alongside distinguished dignitaries including Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, UN Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, and senior officials from the Departments for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities at the central and state levels.
Speaking ahead of the festival, Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Goa’s Minister for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, highlighted the event’s role in promoting an inclusive and compassionate society. State Commissioner Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the festival as a platform to showcase the talent, creativity, and resilience of persons with disabilities.
The inaugural evening at the Entertainment Society of Goa will feature Purple Rain, a vibrant performance combining artists with disabilities and mainstream performers. Highlights include appearances by singers Palak Muchhal, Vijay Prakash, Sona Mohapatra, and Mayuri Atre, as well as local bands Eastern Brook, 7 Notes, Surmayi Sham, and Swaraag. Dance performances from special-school students and community groups will further celebrate talent across abilities.
Pre-festival events have already engaged the community through consultations on inclusive tourism, sports, and accessibility, while Purple Street and Purple Spectrum activities have brought energy and participation to Panaji’s public spaces.
Day 1 will feature the International Convention of the Deaf, the All India State Commissioner Meet, Purple Think Tank sessions on technology, health, and political inclusion, and the Purple Experience Zone showcasing accessible innovations. With these initiatives, the festival continues to evolve as a landmark celebration of inclusion, empowerment, and creativity, establishing Goa as a global stage for transformative dialogue and expression.
