New Delhi: SAMBHAV 2024, hosted by the Association for Learning Performing Arts & Normative Action (A.L.P.A.N.A.), unfolded as a celebration of resilience, talent, and the transformative power of inclusion. Marking its 19th year, this international event held at the India International Centre, New Delhi, from November 30 to December 1, 2024, brought together Divyang artists from across India and the world, each one a shining example of unyielding spirit and creativity.
The stage was set with inspiring messages from India’s highest offices. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lauded SAMBHAV as a movement that builds bridges of understanding and inclusion. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering persons with disabilities (Divyangjan) through initiatives like the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan and the incorporation of Indian Sign Language in the National Education Policy 2020. The President of India Droupadi Murmu, expressed profound admiration for the relentless efforts of A.L.P.A.N.A. to cultivate inclusion and celebrate Divyang artists through arts and culture.
The inaugural ceremony on November 30, 2024, set a dignified tone for the two-day event. The Chief Guest, Rajesh Aggarwal, IAS, Secretary of DEPwD, was joined by Distinguished Guests such as Prof. Virendra Kumar Paul, Director of SPA, GoI; Ranjan Khanna, IRS, Pr ADG, CBIC, Ministry of Finance, GoI; and Ajeet Sahu, IAS, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation), Ministry of Agriculture, GoI.
The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony by Rajesh Aggarwal, symbolising the start of SAMBHAV 2024, followed by a welcome song by A.L.P.A.N.A. students. A vibrant parade of participating groups, each carrying their national flags, added to the excitement. The Distinguished Guests delivered inspiring speeches emphasising the importance of creativity and empowerment for Divyangjan. Rajesh Aggarwal’s keynote address resonated deeply, inspiring reflection and celebration.
The day continued with the opening of an Art and Craft Exhibition, showcasing the incredible artwork of Divyangjan through paintings and handcrafted products. A dance therapy workshop, led by the Mother Charitable Foundation from Sri Lanka, added a therapeutic touch to the event. A workshop on Handicrafts Making and Paintings, with Sandip Ghosh, Publisher at Outlook Group as the Chief Guest, provided a platform for further creativity.
The evening featured a cultural performance, with groups from Australia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Delhi, Gujarat, Nagaland, Nagpur, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Ahmedabad. Distinguished Guests, including Manmeet Kaur Nanda, IAS, and Anju Ranjan, IFS, joined the celebrations, which concluded with a vote of thanks from Ashwani Kumar.
The second day began with a Yoga Therapy Workshop led by Dr. Anant Gopal from S-VYASA University, Bengaluru, focusing on the therapeutic benefits of yoga, mindfulness, and practical techniques. A seminar chaired by Mr. Ashok Shukla, IRAS, explored wellness and inclusion, with a paper presented by Prof Dr Rabindra Acharya. An international seminar on 'Empowerment of Artists with Disabilities,' chaired by Santosh Kumar, ICAS, featured resource persons from Australia, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Ahmedabad, offering global insights on fostering creativity and inclusion. Later, a music therapy workshop by Suzanne Louise Whiteman from Australia added a melodic touch to the day.
The Chief Guest Justice (Retd.) Arun Mishra, along with other Distinguished Guests like Navneet Kumar Sehgal and Ambassador Suchitra Durai, enjoyed breathtaking performances from groups representing Iran, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, Delhi, Gujarat, Jammu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Punjab. The release of the event's souvenir was a proud moment for everyone involved.
The event wrapped up with speeches reflecting on the success of SAMBHAV 2024 in creating a more inclusive society. Justice Arun Mishra delivered a heartfelt address, and Guru Alpana Nayak offered a moving vote of thanks. The event ended with a group photograph, symbolizing the spirit of unity and inclusion. SAMBHAV 2024 was a powerful reminder of how art can break barriers and redefine possibilities.
A.L.P.A.N.A. has been dedicated to empowering and integrating Divyangjan (Persons with Disabilities) since 2004. Since 2006, A.L.P.A.N.A. has been organizing SAMBHAV annually as an international platform to showcase the talents of Divyangjan through inclusive arts. Over the years, SAMBHAV has become a milestone in India’s commitment to uplifting Divyangjan. The word 'SAMBHAV,' meaning 'possible' in Sanskrit, reflects the event's mission: to demonstrate that courage and talent are unaffected by disabilities, and that inclusion is not just a goal, but a way of life.
