Divya Kala Mela is a unique event organized by the Government of India to showcase and promote the talents of artisans and craftspeople with disabilities. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- Meaning: “Divya” means divine or extraordinary, “Kala” means art, and “Mela” means fair. So it roughly translates to “Extraordinary Art Fair.”
- Nature of the event: It’s essentially a craft fair or exhibition where artists and craftspeople with disabilities display and sell their handmade products.
- Organizer: The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, is responsible for organizing this event.
- Objective: The main goals are to:
- Provide a platform for disabled artists to showcase their skills
- Create market linkages for their products
- Promote their economic empowerment
- Raise awareness about the capabilities of persons with disabilities
- Participants: Artists with various types of disabilities from different parts of India take part in this event.
- Products: Visitors can find a wide range of handicrafts, including:
- Textiles and garments
- Paintings and artwork
- Jewelry
- Pottery and ceramics
- Woodwork and furniture
- And many other handmade items
- Additional features: Depending on the specific event, it may also include:
- Cultural performances by artists with disabilities
- Workshops or live demonstrations of crafts
- Seminars or discussions on disability rights and inclusion
- Venue and frequency: The mela is held in different cities across India, though it’s not a regular annual event. Its occurrence can vary based on government planning and resources.
This initiative is part of the Indian government’s broader efforts to create an inclusive society and empower persons with disabilities, aligning with national policies and international commitments like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.