Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 29: A vibrant and impactful two-day Purple Festival titled “VYOM-J&K 2023”, organized by the Department of Social Welfare of Jammu and Kashmir Government, concluded today.
The Festival championing the cause of inclusion and diversity, honouring the remarkable achievements of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) across J&K, was inaugurated by LG Manoj Sinha, joined virtually by Union Minister of MoS J&E Dr Virendra Kumar, in presence of Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar (Advisor to LG), Sheetal Nanda (Commissioner Secretary), Ramesh Kumar (Divisional Commissioner Jammu), Anoo Malhotra (Secretary, Social Welfare Department) and Prof Umesh Rai (VC, Jammu University).
Several organizations including Maharaja Hari Singh Social and Education Foundation, an integral participant in this festival, has been at the forefront of initiatives empowering and supporting the specially-abled.
The Runway Dairies and Delhi Public School Jammu also actively participated in this impactful initiative. The live activity counters witnessed remarkable initiatives such as the Roshni Drive supported by Maharaja Hari Singh Social and Education Foundation, showcasing visually impaired children being trained in Braille using Smart Annie devices.
Additionally, the Art and Craft live counter showcased various exquisite items skillfully crafted by specially-abled participants from Jigar Foundation, Muskan Home, and Samaj Kalyan Kendra under the guidance of the art faculty of DPS Jammu. These items were not only exhibited but also made available for sale, aimed at encouraging self-dependence among the participants.
Moreover, the event witnessed captivating performances, including a Dogri dance presented by students of Samaj Kalyan Kendra, beautifully choreographed by the DPS dance faculty, adding a cultural touch to the inaugural function.
In a significant highlight, Dr Ritu Singh actively participated in the placement drive, providing on-the-spot appointment letters to two specially-abled participants, furthering the cause of empowerment and opportunities for Divyangjan.
The evening of the Purple Festival also witnessed a mesmerizing and soul-stirring fashion show titled ‘The Rainbow,’ presented by The Runway Diaries. Specially abled participants confidently walked the ramp adorned in beautifully curated costumes adhering to the rainbow theme. This pioneering fashion show was anchored by Amar Chouhan.