At the inaugural ceremony of the Divya Kala Mela held at the Lucknow University campus today, a remarkable milestone was achieved in the field of Divyangjan empowerment. In a significant step towards promoting financial independence and inclusive entrepreneurship, loans amounting to `1.76 crore were sanctioned to 216 Divyang beneficiaries, as announced by the Chief Guest, BL Verma, Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. This major initiative not only strengthened the identity of this Divya Kala Mela but also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring economic upliftment of Divyangjan across the country.
In his address, BL Verma stated that Divya Kala Mela and Divya Kala Shakti represent a celebration of the “ability within disability.” He highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a deep emotional connect with Divyangjan and envisions a nation where “Divyangjan participate equally in nation-building and emerge as pillars of a strong and self-reliant India.” He emphasised that numerous government schemes are benefiting Divyangjan nationwide and platforms such as Divya Kala Mela and Rozgar Melas are playing a vital role in promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, artistry and self-reliance among them.
MLA, Lucknow, Dr Neeraj Bora, in his remarks, said that the Mela is a celebration of the “Divine Ability” of Divyangjan. Referring to Prime Minister Modi’s vision, he stressed that Divyangjan should be treated not with sympathy but with respect and opportunities, enabling them to become equal participants in nation-building. He urged citizens to support Divyang artisans and entrepreneurs and strengthen the spirit of “Vocal for Local.” Advisor to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Avnish Awasthi, shared that this is the 27th Divya Kala Mela being organised nationally.
Earlier, 26 editions across various cities saw the participation of 2,194 artisans, collectively earning over ?21 crore. He further informed that loans exceeding `17 crore have been extended so far to Divyang entrepreneurs under Government initiatives. Rajeev Sharma, Joint Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), reiterated the department’s commitment to building an inclusive ecosystem where every Divyang individual has access to education, training, employment, rehabilitation, assistive devices and equal opportunities. He informed that this Mela features participation from more than 100 Divyang craftsmen representing 18 states.
The Divya Kala Shakti segment of the event will showcase the artistic brilliance and creativity of Divyang performers. Anil Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director, NDFDC, expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, including BL Verma, Dr Neeraj Bora, Avnish Awasthi, Subhash Chand Sharma, Rajeev Sharma and Professor Himanshu Shekhar Jha. He Stated that NDFDC under DEPwD are working to strengthen rehabilitation, economic empowerment, skill development, education, social security and assistive device support for Divyangjan. He expressed confidence that the Lucknow edition of the Mela would achieve new heights and bring national recognition to Divyang entrepreneurship.
Key highlights of the Mela include:
l Participation of 100+ Divyang artisans from 18 States
l Special stalls including ALIMCO’s assistive device registration facility
l Demonstration of inclusive sports such as Boccia and Blind Cricket
l Daily evening cultural performances by Divyang artists
l Rozgar Mela on 18 November 2025
l National-level Divya Kala Shakti cultural festival on 23 November 2025
The Divya Kala Mela stands not just as a celebration of art and culture but as a powerful symbol of dignity, self-reliance and the transformative contribution of Divyangjan in building a strong and inclusive India.