Purple Fest 2025: Celebrating Inclusion, Dignity, and Empowerment

Held on 10–11 September 2025, Purple Fest 2025 became a vibrant platform to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and achievements of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities). Organized by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) in collaboration with Amity University, Noida, the event sent out a powerful message—disability is not a limitation but a unique strength.

The festival was inaugurated by Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, DEPwD, and Dr. Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor, Amity University. A special highlight was the felicitation of Ms. Gurdeep Kaur Vasu, the first deafblind Indian to secure a government job under the multiple disabled category, inspiring all with her determination.

From art and craft exhibitions, entrepreneurship stalls, and cultural programs, to sports events and Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) workshops, the fest showcased the abilities and contributions of Divyangjan. It reinforced the message that assistive devices are not charity, respect is a right, and inclusion is non-negotiable.

With its rights-based approach aligned to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, Purple Fest 2025 stood as a landmark event in redefining disability in India.