PANAJI: The International Purple Fest Goa 2025, scheduled from October 9–12, will spotlight disability inclusion and accessibility, featuring 21 Purple Ambassadors representing each disability recognised under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, with a special focus on spinal cord injury.
Among the ambassadors are three from Goa, Sadiya Bandodkar, Sakshi Kale, and Xerif Shaik, bringing local voices to this global platform.
Highlighting the significance of the ambassadors, Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai said, “The selection of 21 Purple Ambassadors, including three inspiring leaders from Goa, reflects the true spirit of International Purple Fest 2025. Their journeys, from sport to fashion, education to advocacy, show us that inclusion is empowerment. Goa is proud to see its own voices, along with others, carrying the message of accessibility onto the world stage.”
Echoing this, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities Guruprasad Pawaskar remarked, “Each Purple Ambassador embodies inspiration and leadership, proving that persons with disabilities are not just participants but change-makers. By sharing diverse experiences, International Purple Fest demonstrates how accessibility can be implemented in every village and town, creating positive reforms for the country.”
From Goa, Sadiya Bandodkar, a hearing-impaired entrepreneur, is the founder of Sadiya Fashions & Earrings and was the first deaf woman in Goa to run a fashion stall. Xerif Shaik, living with severe haemophilia, has 25 years of experience in electronics, IT, and university administration. Sakshi Kale, a low-vision para-athlete from Khandepar, Ponda, has represented India at international athletics championships, including the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships.
The 18 other ambassadors represent disability leadership across India in art, sport, health, advocacy, policy, and entrepreneurship. Notable participants include Danish Mahajan, a visually impaired broadcaster from Punjab; Suvarna Raj, a Delhi-based international para-athlete and UN SDG Action Award recipient; and Pramodini Roul from Odisha, a survivor of acid attack turned advocate and classical dancer. Other ambassadors bring expertise in healthcare, education, creative arts, environmental policy, and adaptive sports, highlighting inclusion across sectors.
The Purple Ambassadors aim to demonstrate that accessibility and inclusion can be a daily practice, not a one-time initiative. Their achievements show that persons with disabilities can lead, innovate, and shape policies, cultural narratives, and communities.
