Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr Virendra Kumar will inaugurate 'Purple Fest: Celebrating Diversity', India's first festival of inclusion, in Goa on Friday, news agency IANS reported. 


The minister will also deliver a sensitization workshop on the empowerment of people with disabilities at the festival, which aims to highlight how we can work together to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, as per the report. 


According to the report, the Purple Fest will feature a variety of thrilling live performances, sporting events, major exhibitions, immersive experience zones, accessible movie screenings, and talks on important topics such as inclusive education, tourism, employment, and independent living.


The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD), is hosting a two-day sensitization session on January 6 and 7, the report said. 


The workshop will cover best practises in the field of disability, with an emphasis on enhancing accessibility by addressing implementation challenges of various schemes and programmes for people with disabilities, as well as accessibility innovations and action plans. Participants from all over the country are expected to attend the programme.


The Aim Of The Purple Fest 2023: 


The Purple Fest is the state of Goa's first of its sort. It is an inclusive event that aims to highlight how we can work together to make the world a more welcome and inclusive place for everyone. The event features interesting panel discussions, artistic live performances, large displays, immersive experience zones, and other activities.


Tracks of Purple Fest 2023:


Purple Think Tank:


When open minds participate in honest discourse, they create a safe and welcoming environment. Conversations that are both intelligent and powerful await you in the fest. The Purple Think Tank is a series of speeches and panel discussions on themes such as inclusive education and employment for people with disabilities, as per the official website of the event.


Purple Fun: 


With Purple Fun right around the corner, there's never a dull moment. The Goa government has organised a slew of exciting activities for you, from bird watching to a blind car rally. Touring Goa's famed beaches, temples, and cathedrals will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. For a small charge, you can have all of this and more.


Purple Zone Experience: 


Would you like to experience the world through a different set of eyes? Then roll up your sleeves and get ready to enter the Purple Experience Zone. Immersive exercises designed to mimic the experience of navigating life with a disability can be found there. The zone contains everything from difficult challenges to beneficial advancements.


Purple Exhibition: 


Enter the Purple Exhibition to see scientific and artistic marvels. The exhibition will feature the most recent aids, appliances, and goods created by and for people with disabilities. It will also include live art camps and other enjoyable activities.


Purple Rain: 


Join us at Purple Rain for an evening of celebration and fun! There's something for everyone, including live performances by renowned artists, music concerts, dance performances, and stand-up comedy acts. 


(With Inputs From Agencies)