In a celebration of talent, resilience, and inclusivity, the Governor of Karnataka, Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, inaugurated the regional cultural event, "Divya Kala Shakti: Witnessing Abilities in Disabilities," at Ravindra Kala Kshethra Cultural Centre in Bengaluru today. The event, graced by Minister of State for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri A. Narayanaswamy and attended by Senior Officers from State and Central Government, showcased the extraordinary abilities of Divyangjan.

Organized by the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (Divyangjan) (NIEPMD), Chennai, in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan) (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India, the cultural extravaganza provided a unique platform for individuals with disabilities to exhibit their talents in performing arts, music, dance, acrobatics, and more.

Over a month of dedicated practice brought together 75 children and youth from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, representing various disabilities such as Visual Impairment, Hearing Impairment, Locomotor Disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, and Multiple Disabilities. The performances, ranging from classical to folk and modern styles, also included yoga and acrobatics, highlighting the innate and diverse talents in them

The event garnered an audience of over 1000, Parents, Special Teachers, Rehabilitation Professionals, Students, NGOs, and more. This showcase not only celebrates their abilities but also aims to raise awareness and change societal perceptions towards Divyangjan.

The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Govt. of India, has been actively promoting such initiatives. The "Divya Kala Shakti" programme funded under the Awareness Generation Program (AGP), reflects the Department's commitment to creating platforms for Divyangjan to contribute to the socio-cultural and economic growth of the nation.

Additionally, through the ADIP Scheme of DEPwD, MSJ&E, GoI, 152 persons with disabilities have been provided with aids and appliances amounting to Rs.12.69 lakhs

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MG/MS/VL/SD