The Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and Directorate of Social Welfare, on Monday, announced the much-anticipated International Purple Fest 2024, Goa; the dates from 8th -13th January’2024.
The announcement of International Purple Fest 2024 comes as a testament to the event’s exponential growth and success for the first edition of Purple Fest 2023. The international edition will extend the Purple Fest experience to a global audience, bridging cultures and nurturing artistic collaborations on an unprecedented scale.
The official announcement was made in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including the Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Subhash Phal Desai ,Minister for Social Welfare, Govt of Goa, Subhash Chandra, Secretary for Social Welfare, Govt of Goa, Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Goa and Taha Haaziq- Secretary, Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities conveyed their dedication to fostering inclusivity on an international level.
International Purple Fest 2024 will stand as an exemplary testament to the strides made in creating a global community that embraces individuals of all abilities and empowers them to thrive. With the theme of “Diversity Unites Us,” this extraordinary festival aims to transcend borders and create a universal platform for promoting awareness, advocacy, and accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).
“We envision International Purple Fest 2024 as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change on a global scale. By uniting diverse perspectives, we can create a world that truly celebrates the uniqueness of each individual. Purple Fest will serve as a platform to ignite positive change, enabling PwDs to reach new heights and contribute significantly to the social fabric of our nation,” stated Dr Sawant.
Minister for Social Welfare Goa, Shri Subhash Phal Desai, expressed his enthusiasm, saying “This festival embodies the spirit of Goa – vibrant, diverse, and welcoming. We are proud to host Purple Fest and embrace the opportunity to advance the cause of inclusivity. We believe that a truly inclusive society is one that recognises and celebrates the unique strengths and talents of every individual. Purple Fest International 2024 is not just a festival; it is a resounding call for unity, equality, and understanding.”
Secretary for Social Welfare, Govt of Goa, Subhash Chandra added “At the heart of the International Purple Fest 2024 lies a celebration of unity, compassion, and progress. Let us, together, paint the world with the vibrant colours of solidarity, as we work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all. With your support and participation, we will make this festival a symbol of hope and transformation.”
During his keynote speech, Sparsh Shah, singer, rapper, songwriter, music producer, inspirational speaker and philanthropist conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for individuals with disabilities, recognizing their unique ability to perceive the world’s diversity and to express themselves authentically and find profound moments of connection”.
He went on to acknowledge the challenges brought about by uncertainty, highlighting the extraordinary instances of love and unity that will arise from them. He also emphasised the importance of transcending labels, encouraging society to embrace uniqueness and reject limitations, asserting that being “disabled” should not confine anyone’s potential. The speech concluded with a resounding call for acceptance and unity, emphasising the unyielding spirit and immense contributions of the disabled community, underscoring their pivotal role in shaping a diverse and inclusive world.
Gurprasad Pawaskar stated, “We are immensely proud to host this prestigious event in the serene and welcoming atmosphere of Goa. Together, we can forge a brighter and more inclusive future for PwDs all across the world. This unique festival promises an inspiring experience, combining a plethora of activities that aim to sensitize society, foster understanding, and promote innovation and accessibility on a global scale. The incredible turnout and the positive feedback from attendees motivated us to take this event to an international stage. We believe that International Purple Fest 2024 will further transcend boundaries and connect communities worldwide through the power of inclusivity”.
The International Purple Fest 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities. By championing the rights and capabilities of Persons with Disabilities, the festival seeks to create a more inclusive and compassionate world. Join us in January 2024 for the International Purple Fest 2024 in Goa where we celebrate the indomitable spirit, creativity, and potential of every individual, fostering a global community that thrives on diversity and inclusion.
Secure your spot at International Purple Fest 2024 by registering online at link purplefest.goa.gov.in. Registration begins from the 23rd October, 2023. Registration fees will include early bird registration fees and fees after early bird registration is over, stated a press release.
