Goa is all set to host the third edition of the International Purple Fest (IPF) 2025, a four-day celebration of inclusivity and empowerment for persons with disabilities (PwDs), from October 9 to 12 at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), Panaji.
Organised by the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Office of the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, and supported by the United Nations India, the festival will be inaugurated on Thursday evening in the presence of several dignitaries.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant will be the Chief Guest for the opening ceremony, while Union Ministers Dr Virendra Kumar, Dr Ramdas Athawale, and Shripad Naik will attend as Guests of Honour. The event will also see the participation of Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, UN Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, Secretary (DEPwD) Shri Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, and Panaji Mayor Rohit Monserrate as Special Guests.
The Purple Fest aims to promote awareness about accessibility, equality, and inclusion through a diverse lineup of over 250 events featuring cultural programs, exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, and sports for persons with disabilities.
Goa’s Minister for the Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, said the festival reflects the state’s commitment to building an inclusive society. “Purple Fest is not just an event, it is a movement to recognise the abilities and aspirations of every individual,” he stated.
Earlier this week, a new accessible boardwalk at Miramar Beach was inaugurated as part of the state’s efforts to create barrier-free spaces ahead of the festival.
The opening ceremony will be held at 5 pm today at the Entertainment Society of Goa, Panaji, with Chief Secretary Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, and DEPwD Secretary Shri Prasanna Acharya, IAS, extending the invitation on behalf of the Government of Goa.
