In an unique achievement, members of the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa performed at the Selection Trial for Folk Groups 2024, organised by the Directorate of Art and Culture, Government of Goa. The group of 25 members presented three Goan folk dances on wheelchairs on 5th October 2024, at Rajiv Kala Mandir, Ponda, Goa. This marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time wheelchair users had performed in a state-level folk art competition. The group’s participation not only showcased their artistic skill but also their ability to break barriers in a traditionally able-bodied space. The audience received their performance with great appreciation, further strengthening the message of inclusivity and equality, states a press release.
The four-day Selection Trial featured captivating displays of Goan folk art, representing the state’s rich cultural traditions. The wheelchair performers, competing alongside able-bodied performers, delivered a vibrant and mesmerising display, preserving Goa’s cultural heritage in a unique and inspiring way. Their efforts are commendable, highlighting that persons with disabilities, when given opportunities, can excel in any field.
“The goal of this performance was to raise awareness about accessibility and inclusion, and to demonstrate that, when given equal opportunities, persons with disabilities can compete on par with anyone,” said Vishant Nagvekar, the team leader. “This performance is proof that disability is not a barrier to talent or culture, but simply a different way of participating. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to all the supporters and well-wishers especially, Guruprasad Pawaskar – State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilites, who believed in us and made this performance possible. Without their encouragement and backing, we would not have been able to achieve this unique achievement.”
The Disability Alliance of Inclusive Goa made history on 5th October 2024 by taking part in the Selection Trial. This was the first time in 12 years that people with disabilities (PwDs) participated in the event organised by the Directorate of Art and Culture. The group performed 3 folk dance which includes, Goff, Mussal and Mando.
“On behalf of the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa, I extend sincere gratitude to Milind Mate, Deputy Director, Directorate of Art and Culture, Government of Goa, for accepting our registration and ensuring all necessary arrangements for the wheelchair performance,” said Patrick D’Souza, President of the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa.
Stany D’souza, Secretary of the Disability Alliance for Inclusive Goa, added, “The team put in remarkable effort to perform at this state-level event, overcoming many challenges, limitations and shortage of time and resources. Despite the physical and logistical hurdles, their determination and passion for folk art were evident in every performance. This event has set a new benchmark for inclusion in cultural activities across Goa. It also highlights the need for more platforms where persons with disabilities can showcase their talents. We hope this performance will pave the way for greater participation of differently-abled individuals in the preservation of our rich cultural heritage.”
