Annual Report 2024-25
Established in 2021, The Centre for Disability Research and Training, Kirori Mal College is perhaps the only centre of its kind in a college in India. The centre strives to not only facilitate and support the inclusion of students with disabilities within the educational mainstream but also strives to trigger a conversation around disabilities within the Indian academia particularly the undergraduate and postgraduate classrooms. Its goal is to bring about a change in the lives of disabled people and transform the way the society at large perceives and responds to Disability and disabled people.
In a short span of four years, the centre has to its great credit gone a long way in achieving the objective it has laid out for itself. In this context the academic year 2024-25 has been particularly fulfilling. During this period, the centre has collaborated with many institutions and organised a variety of events ranging from disability awareness campaigns, gender sensitisation workshops, skill enhancement training for students with disabilities, created accessible study materials for visually impaired students and organised academic programmes.
| S. No. | Date | Title | Nature of event | Collaborating partner | Nature of issue addressed | Volunteers | Social impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | 9 Aug 2024 | Paramarsh | Institutional outreach to visually impaired students of college within the centre’s inclusive edu programme project arohan | Saksham | Profiling of visually impaired students identifying their specific needs mapping their aspirations and providing customised solutions to each student. | 5 | 40 visually impaired students of college were identified and provided with customised solutions. |
| 2 | 14 Aug -3 sept | Disability awareness course | A disability sensitisation drive in the form of a sensitisation course for students of B.M.N college of home sciences. | B.M.N college OF Home Sciences | Social cultural perception of disability and its discontent and need to bring about a change in this perception outlining a process to achieve this goal, how to implement this process | 5 | 14 students registered for this course and developed awareness and understanding about the perception of disability. |
| 3 | 11 Sep 2024 | Sambhav | A disability awareness simulation and sensitisation workshop | – | The event provided the non disabled participants a glimpse into the daily lives of disabled people and their day to day activities | 25 | Change the ways in which over 80 non disabled participants perceive and respond to disabled and disabled people. |
| 4 | 13 Sep 2024 | Parde ke peeche 3.0 | screening of srikanth a film on the life of a blind entrepreneur followed by discussion | – | Representation of disability in culture particularly film, social perception of disability and modes of negotiation social stigma and successful negotiation of social barriers realisation of full potential of disabled people | 5 | 80 participants viewed the movie and participated in the discussion |
| 5 | 23 sep-28 oct 2024 | Prashikshan | Training basic computer training to vi students | saksham | How can blind people operate Computer with the help of screen reading software – NVDA | 5 | The training programme enhanced the computer skills of 12 registered visually impaired participants. |
| 6 | 3-4 oct 2024 | Digithon | A training programme for creating accessible study material. | saksham | It deals with how to convert accessible study material into accessible format. | 5 | 15 registered participants learnt how to create accessible study material for visually impaired and subsequently over 1000 pages were converted into accessible format. |
| 7 | 10th Oct | Paricharcha Invisible walls | The event was a reflective and critical discussion on ableism in everyday life, titled “Invisible Walls: Confronting Ableism in Everyday Life. And the way it affects disabled people in everyday life. | – | Discussed the meaning and significance of ableism, how it manifests itself in everyday life and its impact in everyday life. The issue addressed was ableism, which refers to discrimination or prejudice against people with disabilities. The event aimed to unpack how ableism hides in everyday conversations, attitudes, and systems, and how it can be confronted. | 5 | 30 participants expressed their views on abelism n brinstormed ist on how it shapes the way the society at large perceives disability. They also developed an understanding of impact it has s]disabled people, need to question its parameters and , they also deliberated on how it could be they also put forward strategies to overcome ableist impositions. Negotiate n overcome |
| 8 | 15 Oct 2024 | Anubhav | A disability simulation and sensitisation. | – | It aimed to foster awareness about visual disabilities, promote empathy, and challenge ableist perceptions within education and ableist framework in observance of white cane day. | 20 | Over 80 students not only learned about physical challenges but also gained insight into the emotional resilience and adaptability of individuals with visual disabilities |
| 9 | 7 Nov 2024 | Antar Samaveshita | A gender and disability sensitisation workshop. | Prof. Shilpa das from National institute of design | A representation gender and disability sensitisation workshop, Its Politics and problems how can literary form be used to disrupt ableist paradigms | 20 | 80 registered participants and developed an understanding of gender and disability representation in popular media. |
| 10 | 11 Nov 2024 | Enabling the teachers of sciences | A workshop on universal design of teaching of sciences and making stem subjects accessible to students with visual impairments. | IIT Delhi | The Teaching of sciences and its pedagogy, focus on making it more accessible and disability friendly. | 15 | 15 student participants and 6 faculty attended the workshop and developed an understanding of how there is an urgent need to make the teaching of sciences more accessible to stunts with disability particularly visually impaired. |
| 11 | 14 Nov 2024 | The Bollywood’s gaze | It was a discussion session. It highlighted the importance of authentic representation in the media. Through film screenings and discussions, participants critiqued stereotypical portrayals of disability and emphasized the need for nuanced storytelling. | – | The event provided a critical space for students and faculty to discuss the portrayal of disability in popular Hindi films and how such portrayals influence societal norms. | 5 | The event promoted awareness and encouraged filmmakers and audiences to think critically about media representation. |
| 12 | 24 Jan 2025 | Overlapping identities | A panel discussion on intersectionality of gender and disability. | Parivartan, IGNOU,Centre for Women Development Studies | The event brought together academics, students, and activists to explore how overlapping identities — particularly gender and disability — impact lived experiences, often creating multiple layers of marginalization. | 15 | 80 people attended the event and developed an insight on how disabled women are doubly marginalised. |
| 13 | 29 Jan 2025 | Paricharcha ‘25 | A group discussion on the ‘The Rights of persons with disabilities Act 2016’ | – | The session aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that govern disability rights in India, while also encouraging a critical look at how these frameworks function (or fail to function) in real life | 5 | 30 participants developed an understanding of The Rights of persons with disabilities Act 2016’. |
| 14 | 17 Feb 2025 | Antardrishti | An academic, disability awareness sensitisation workshop . | CDRT Sri Guru Tegh Bahadyur Khalsa college | The experiential reality of disabled in the predominantly nin disabled world. | 20 | 50 students of SGTB khalsa college attended the workshop and developed an awareness of the true nature of disability experience. |
| 15 | 18 Feb 2025 | Antardrishti 2.0 | An academic, disability awareness sensitisation workshop . | CDRT Gargi college | The experiential reality of disabled in the predominantly nin disabled world | 20 | 75 students of SGTB khalsa college attended the workshop and developed an awareness of the true nature of disability experience. |
| 16 | 19 Feb 2025 | Disability rights in viksit bharat | A panel discussion on disability rights in contemporary India. | La Politique, NPRD (National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled),NCPEDP ( National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People. ) | Disability rights in India, its history, present status and challenges, and future possibilities | 20 | More than 80 students developed a critical insight into the history of disability rights movement in India , its present status and its shortcomings and future possibilities. |
| 17 | 3 March 2025 | Antardrishti 3.0 | An academic, disability awareness sensitisation workshop . | CDRT Miranda House | The experiential reality of disabled in the predominantly nin disabled world | 20 | 40students of SGTB khalsa college attended the workshop and developed an awareness of the true nature of disability experience. |
| 18 | 7-26 April 2025 | Disability studies VAC course | A sensitisation programme in the form of a 30 hour add on course on disability studies. | CDRT Bhawanipur Education society college | The social; and cultural responses to disability and education. | 5 | The 30-hour add-on course on disability studies promoted awareness and understanding of disability issues, empowering participants to advocate for inclusivity and accessibility. By fostering a culture of empathy and respect, the course helped break down stigmas and encouraged inclusive practices in various settings. |
| 19 | 25 April 2025 | Accessible Horizon’25 | A purple festival celebrating inclusion, creativity and accessibility. | – | Social-cultural perceptions and responses to disability and the need to interrogate them. And out forwards alternative perception and responses | 20 | Over 100 participants took part in the event and were sensitised. |
Paramarsh- 9th August 2024, Kirori Mal College
On 9 August 2024, CDRT, in collaboration with Saksham, organized “Paramarsh,” a counselling and interactive session for visually impaired students of the college with Dipendra Manocha, Founder and Managing Trustee of Saksham. During the session, Mr. Manocha, along with his team, made the students aware of different assistive technologies available to them, providing them with solutions to make their pursuit of higher education more accessible.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. Somesh Sati, Coordinator, CDRT. The 23 visually impaired students, assisted by a group of five volunteers, attended this interactive session and were given simple tips on how to take notes, record lectures, seek assistance from peers, and use laptops effectively to become self-dependent in their academic pursuits.
Mr. Manocha laid stress on the need for becoming self-reliant not only in accessing study material but also in writing examinations on the computer. He suggested that it is imperative for blind students and those with low vision to develop enhanced computer skills so that they can not only access computers effectively through OCR but also become independent with regard to writing.
The session concluded with Kundan, a second-year Hindi Honours student, proposing a vote of thanks and confessing that the interactive session had really opened up academia to them in ways they had never imagined before. This counselling and interactive session was an integral part of the tireless effort made by CDRT to facilitate inclusion of disabled students in the educational mainstream.
The session ended on a positive note with Mr. Manocha inspiring the students by saying that inclusion is not a matter of privilege; it is rather a matter of one’s drive.
Disability awareness & Sensitisation : Campaign – Sambhav’ 2024
Understanding disability is not just about awareness ,it is about developing empathy, challenging stereotypes, and building a more inclusive society. With this aim, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, organised sambhav’ 24 a disability awareness & sensitization campaign on 11th September 2024 in the college’s canteen lawn. Sensitisation in this context means enabling people to understand different disabilities not just in theory, but through real experiences that develops a sense of empathy towards and understanding of what it means to be disabled in day to day life .
The campaign was designed around interactive and sensory-based activities that encouraged participants to step into the world of those with visual or hearing impairments. Over 100 students took part in this unique event.
The event was inaugurated by Professor . Someshwar Sati, who welcomed all participants and highlighted the importance of developing emotional understanding alongside academic awareness. He encouraged students to participate wholeheartedly and reminded them that true inclusion begins with empathy and active engagement. He also stressed on the fact that in the absence of a functional sensory organ other organs come to the rescue in the process of sensory substitution.
All the activities were meticulously planned to epitomise the process of century substitution. For example, the day began with activities like blind cricket ,blind football in which participants were blindfolded and made to play the game using sound-emitting balls and relying entirely on hearing. In the whisper challenge, students had to guess words using only lip-reading and gestures, simulating how difficult communication can be for people with hearing loss.
The participants were also made to realize the power of other senses like those of taste, smell and touch . They were made to identify wide range of spices and candies while blindfolded, they were only allowed to smell or taste them this made participants understand the value of other senses and their importance in the absence of sight and how these become more developed if one cannot see .Similarly, students tried to identify currency notes by touch, just as visually impaired individuals do in real life. The event ended with a fun but thought-provoking round of musical chairs, where all participants were blindfolded, adding a new level of challenge and awareness.
This campaign was not just enjoyable, but meaningful. It gave students a chance to better understand the importance of inclusion and accessibility, and encouraged them to see disability not as a weakness, but as a different way of navigating the world.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks and closing remarks by Professor Someshwar Sati, who praised the efforts of the organisers and the active involvement of students. He emphasised that campaigns like Sambhav play a vital role in breaking barriers and reshaping mindsets, making society more empathetic and inclusive for all.
Theatre Workshop on Disability – Khwaab 2nd May 2024
Disability, more than a physical or sensory condition, is often shaped by the way society responds to difference. True awareness comes not only from knowing the challenges faced by disabled individuals, but by stepping into their worlds with empathy, imagination, and understanding. With this aim, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, organised Khwaab, a theatre workshop focused on disability sensitisation, on 2nd May 2024 at the college’s Academic Auditorium.
In this context, sensitisation meant encouraging students to engage with disability not through sympathy, but through storytelling and creative performance. The workshop aimed to shift focus from labels and diagnoses to lived experiences—how a person with disability navigates life, spaces, and relationships. And theatre, with its capacity to transform both performer and audience, became the perfect space to hold such conversations.
The sessions were led by theatre professionals Mansi Grover and Kuljeet Sir, who guided students through exercises in body language, voice modulation, improvisation, and emotional expression. Over several weeks, participants explored questions of access, dignity, marginalisation, and inclusion, all through collaborative group work and self-reflection.
The performances showcased on the final day were the result of this intense and personal process. Students presented original scenes and monologues, built around real-life experiences and imagined situations, portraying the barriers both visible and invisible that disabled individuals face every day. From the inaccessibility of public spaces to the subtle sting of social exclusion, every act offered something to reflect upon.
The auditorium was filled with silence, applause, and at times, tears What stood out was not just the creativity of the performances, but their honesty. The students didn’t act about disability, they performed with an understanding of what exclusion feels like, and what true inclusion demands from all of us.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Professor Someshwar Sati, who commended the students for using theatre as a tool to challenge dominant narratives and open up new conversations. He emphasised that disability is not a lack, but a difference and one that deserves space, respect, and representation in every sphere, including the arts.
Khwaab was more than a performance; it was a reminder that stories have the power to heal, provoke, and unite. By stepping into someone else’s shoes even briefly we begin the real work of building a more inclusive and empathetic world.
Report on the Disability Awareness Course
Organized by: Dr. B.M.N. College of Home Science, Matunga, Department of Human Development in collaboration with CDRT, Kirodimal College, Delhi Duration: 14th August 2024 – 3rd September 2024 Facilitator: Mr. Someshwar Sati Introduction. The Disability Awareness Course was a structured initiative aimed at fostering understanding, empathy, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. Conducted over five sessions, the course provided theoretical insights, experiential learning, and interactive discussions to equip participants with knowledge and strategies to support disability inclusion in various social contexts. Session 1: Disability and Inclusion Date: 14th August 2024 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PMThe first session introduced the concept of disability as a social construct rather than merely a medical condition. Mr. Someshwar Sati emphasized the importance of inclusion in education and employment. Discussions centered on the benefits of fostering an inclusive environment, promoting diversity, and upholding human rights. Participants explored challenges to inclusion, particularly issues related to accessibility. A notable part of the session was the narration of H.G. Wells’ story The Country of the Blind, which illustrated how societal perceptions shape the understanding of disability. The story reinforced the idea that disability is not an inherent problem but rather a reflection of societal attitudes.
The session concluded with a presentation on allyship by Ms. Kenesha Sarah Thomas, a TY Botany student, highlighting the role of advocacy, listening, and learning in supporting marginalized communities. A video was also shown on promoting equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Session 2: Immersion into a Disability Experience Date: 20th August 2024 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM The second session focused on experiential learning by simulating the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Facilitated by Ms. Devanshi, the session began with an exercise requiring students to reflect on the difficulties of living with orthopedic impairments. Participants engaged in hands-on activities such as navigating blindfolded, identifying objects without vision, and attempting to lip-read conversations. These exercises deepened their understanding of sensory impairments and underscored the importance of inclusive infrastructure and sign language. Following the activities, discussions led by Mr. Someshwar Sati encouraged participants to share their experiences and insights. The session concluded with an explanation of community mobilization, emphasizing education, communication, and empathy as essential components of fostering an inclusive society. Session 3: Images of Disability in Cinema and Media Date: 21st August 2024 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM This session explored the portrayal of disability in films and media. Participants were divided into groups and assigned the films Black and Koshish. Through guided discussions with Mr. Someshwar Sati, they analyzed the representation of individuals with disabilities, societal attitudes, and the role of educators and families in supporting them.
The discussion around Black focused on the protagonist’s relationship with her family and teacher, as well as the interventions used to aid her development. The group analyzing Koshish deliberated on the societal challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly in relationships and marriage. The session highlighted the power of media in shaping perceptions and the importance of authentic representation of disabilities. Session 4: Disability and Inclusion – Practical Applications Date: 23rd August 2024 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM In this session, participants engaged in role-playing exercises to apply inclusive strategies in real-world scenarios. Divided into small groups, they were tasked with planning inclusive events or policies, such as organizing a freshers’ party with disabled individuals or managing a school that recently admitted a student with disabilities. After discussions, each group presented their ideas, followed by feedback from Mr. Someshwar Sati. The interactive nature of the session encouraged creative problem-solving and emphasized the importance of inclusive planning. Participants reflected on their learning experiences, discussing their favorite sessions and key takeaways from the course. Session 5: Promoting Disability Inclusion and Challenging Stereotypes Date: 3rd September 2024 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM The final session focused on dismantling stereotypes and emphasizing ability over disability. Three thought- provoking videos were shown: 1. Exclusion to Inclusion – A story of how a group of friends transitioned from excluding to including a child with a disability. 2. Empowerment through Music – A girl with a disability creatively adapted to her environment, highlighting the importance of encouragement and adaptability. 3. Perspective of a Person with a Disability – A video emphasizing the need for respectful communication with individuals with disabilities. Following the video screenings, a discussion ensued on the importance of inclusive attitudes and support systems. Participants were assigned two group projects and two individual assignments to further explore disability inclusion concepts. The session concluded with a question-and-feedback round, allowing participants to share their insights.
The Disability Awareness Course was an enriching experience that provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of disability inclusion. The interactive sessions, practical exercises, and thought-provoking discussions facilitated a deeper appreciation of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the steps required to build a more inclusive society. A key takeaway from the course was the importance of focusing on abilities rather than disabilities. As stated during the final session, “The easiest way to respect and help people with disabilities is to focus on their abilities, not their disabilities.” Through this initiative, participants gained valuable insights and practical strategies to advocate for and implement inclusive practices in education, employment, and social settings. The facilitation by Mr. Someshwar Sati played a crucial role in making the sessions engaging, informative, and impactful.
Movie Screening: “Srikanth” – 13th September 2024
Cinema, when used thoughtfully, can become more than storytelling it can become a mirror to society and a tool for transformation. With this belief, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, organised a special screening of the biographical film “Srikanth” on 13th September 2024 in Room 120, followed by a meaningful discussion session.
The screening opened with insightful remarks by Professor Someshwar Sati, who spoke about the power of media in shaping public perceptions of disability. He encouraged students to move beyond passive viewership and engage critically with how disabled characters are represented, asking what stories are being told, who gets to tell them, and what silences remain. He reminded the audience that films can inspire, but they must also challenge dominant narratives to be truly transformative.
Students from various departments attended the session and responded to the film with thoughtful engagement. Based on the real-life journey of a visually impaired individual, the movie traced the protagonist’s personal and professional struggles with warmth, energy, and resilience. Many viewers praised the authentic portrayal of blindness, especially in the small but powerful moments that showed the challenges of navigating a sighted world.
The post-screening discussion brought out a range of responses. Some students appreciated the emotional tone and motivational arc of the story, while others raised questions about the film’s tendency to romanticise struggle through Bollywood-style storytelling. Participants reflected on how mainstream cinema often overlooks deeper issues such as accessibility, systemic support, and policy-level barriers. The conversation revealed a growing sensitivity among students toward recognising disability as a social experience rather than just an individual one.
The screening session concluded with final reflections from Professor Someshwar Sati, who lauded the students for engaging so thoughtfully. He stressed the importance of media literacy in developing inclusive thinking, and urged everyone to seek out narratives that are layered, honest, and representative of diverse realities.
The “Srikanth” screening proved to be more than just a film viewing; it became a shared space for critical reflection, empathy-building, and dialogue. It reminded all present that inclusion begins not with sympathy, but with understanding and that stories, when told with care, can be the first step toward lasting change.
Prashikshan – Training programme 23 September 2024
On 23rd September 2024, the “Prashikshan” training program was organized by the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT) at Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, in collaboration with Saksham. The program aimed to empower visually challenged students with essential skills for independent reading and writing, covering key skills such as English and Hindi typing using computers, creating properly edited and formatted documents, accessing digital content independently, and using reading solutions like Orbit Reader and Daisy Player.
As part of the initiative, over 150 books were converted into accessible digital formats, with more than 25,000 pages processed and 85 books uploaded online. Students actively contributed to this initiative, converting books across various languages, including 55% in Hindi, 40% in English, and 5% in Sanskrit. The converted books included UPSC and government exam preparation materials, history and political science texts, Hindi and English literature, and religious and spiritual texts.
Students made significant contributions, with Arshad converting 26 books, Narender converting 15 books, Kundan converting 14 books, and Aditya converting 11 books. The program was a valuable step towards promoting inclusivity and accessibility for visually challenged students.
DIGITHON – 3rd & 4th October 2024
On 3rd and 4th October 2024, with the view of empowering persons with blindness and lowvision, CDRT, in collaboration with Saksham under Project Arohan, organised DIGITHON, a two-day digital accessibility workshop that addressed one of the most critical gaps in higher education.lack of accessible academic materials for visually impaired (VI) students. Conducted at the E-Learning Centre of Kirori Mal College, this event combined technology, skill-building,and social responsibility.The workshop brought together 15 enthusiastic undergraduate students from various Delhi University colleges. The core of the training revolved around Accessital, a tool used to structure and edit scanned books so that they become accessible via screen readers and assistive technologies. In structured sessions, participants learned to clean, proofread, and format documents—skills that may seem technical but carry immense social impact. With dedicated effort, over 1,000 pages were converted into accessible formats during the workshop, directly aiding VI students in their academic pursuits.
What made DIGITHON powerful was not just the technical training—it was the shift in perspective. Students weren’t just doing a task; they were solving real problems. They began understanding that exclusion is often not due to lack of capability but lack of access. Conversations throughout the sessions revolved around educational equity, inclusion policies,and the ethics of accessibility. On the final day, all participants received certificates, and the most dedicated students were offered internships with the Arohan Project, an initiative that works to scale digital inclusion. This opportunity added a long-term dimension to their involvement, reinforcing that inclusive change is not a one-time act but a continuous commitment. DIGITHON proved that when young minds are given the tools and the purpose, they can drive change at scale. The workshop was a blend of hands-on learning, community engagement, and purposeful innovation—equipping students with both the skills and the heart to work toward a more inclusive academic ecosystem.
Paricharcha – “Invisible Walls: Confronting Ableism in Everyday Life” – 10th October 2024
As part of its ongoing discourse series, Paricharcha, CDRT organized a reflective and critical discussion on 10th October 2024 titled “Invisible Walls: Confronting Ableism in Everyday Life.” The event aimed to unpack how ableism—unlike overt discrimination—often hides in everyday conversations, attitudes, and systems. The session was initiated by Prof. Someshwar Sati, who challenged conventional definitions of disability. He presented a transformative view—arguing that disability is not an individual flaw, but a collective failure of society to adapt and accommodate. To illustrate this, he referred to H.G. Wells’ short story “The Country of the Blind,” which provoked participants to question who defines normalcy and how societies often exclude those who differ from the ‘norms. Participants from various disciplines engaged in an open dialogue, sharing their experiences and observations. Many reflected on how casual jokes, “inspirational” labels, inaccessible buildings, or exclusion from group activities can be everyday forms of ableism. These may seem harmless but ultimately reinforce systems that isolate and marginalize people with disabilities. The discussion also explored structural ableism—how policies, education systems, and public infrastructure fail to account for neurodiverse or physically disabled populations. Students proposed changes such as inclusive curriculum design, wider use of sign language, more accessible tech platforms, and sensitization workshops for teachers and peers. What made the session impactful was its tone: it wasn’t accusatory, but introspective. The aim wasn’t to shame but to awaken—a call to recognize that allyship begins with noticing these “invisible walls” in our surroundings and actively working to break them down. The event concluded with a sense of urgency and responsibility. Attendees left with a renewed perspective—one that questioned their everyday actions and encouraged them to advocate for a more inclusive world, starting from their own college corridors.
Anubhav’24: Sensitisation Workshop – 15th October 2024
In observance of World White Cane Day, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, organised Anubhav’24 on 15th October 2024. This sensitisation workshop aimed to foster awareness about visual disabilities, promote empathy, and challenge ableist perceptions within educational and social contexts.
The event was facilitated by student members and volunteers from CDRT and featured a range of experiential learning activities focused on alternative methods of communication and navigation. The workshop began with games centred around silent communication, emphasizing how non-verbal methods like gestures and signs serve as crucial tools for those with hearing or speech impairments. A specially curated video titled The Hare and the Tortoise, narrated in Indian Sign Language, helped participants grasp the importance of inclusive storytelling and accessible communication.
Participants then engaged in an interactive sign language learning session that highlighted the practical usage of signs in everyday life, thus normalising its application beyond the disabled community.
A standout feature of the event was the World White Cane Day simulation activity. Students were blindfolded and asked to perform common tasks such as walking, pouring water, and drawing, giving them a firsthand experience of the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals. The activity culminated in an obstacle-navigation task using white canes, which underscored the cane’s crucial role in fostering independence and safety.
Through this workshop, students not only learned about physical challenges but also gained insight into the emotional resilience and adaptability of individuals with visual disabilities. The session concluded with a reflection circle, allowing participants to share their experiences and perspectives, effectively reinforcing the values of empathy, understanding, and inclusion.
‘अंतर्समनवेशिता’ – Workshop on the Intersection of Disability and Gender in Comics and Graphic Narratives – 7th November 2024
On 7th November 2024, CDRT at Kirori Mal College conducted a deeply insightful workshop titled ‘अंतर्समनवेशिता’, exploring the intersectionality of disability and gender through the medium of comics and graphic storytelling. Held in collaboration with Professor Shilpa Das from the National Institute of Design, the workshop provided a fresh, interdisciplinary lens to understanding how marginalised identities are represented in visual culture.
The session began with Professor Das unpacking critical disability terminology and encouraging participants to question commonly accepted language like “Divyangjan.” This was followed by an engaging discussion on the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Act and the gaps in its practical implementation, especially for women and girls with disabilities.
One of the highlights of the workshop was the presentation of Surabhi, a graphic narrative developed into Bystander by the Kadak Collective. The story used powerful visuals and dialogues to showcase the lived realities of disabled women, exploring themes of autonomy, discrimination, and structural exclusion. This narrative sparked thoughtful conversations among participants about how disability and gender often intersect to compound marginalisation.
The session concluded by Prof. Someshwar Sati who delivered a vote of thanks. He highlighted the significance of the event and gave a call to redefine societal narratives on disability, advocating a more empathetic and inclusive approach.
This workshop not only broadened students’ understanding of intersectionality but also encouraged them to reflect on the power of media and art in shaping societal attitudes toward disability and gender. It was an enriching experience that merged academic discourse with creative expression to challenge stereotypes and inspire inclusive thinking.
Workshop on Assistive Technologies for Blind Students – 11th November 2024
On 11th November 2024, six faculty members and fifteen students from CDRT, Kirori Mal College, attended an immersive workshop at the National Centre for Assistive Health Technologies (NCAHT), IIT Delhi. The session, conducted by Dr. Piyush Danana, aimed to enhance the educational experiences of visually impaired students by introducing them to emerging assistive technologies and inclusive methodologies.
The workshop began with an engaging discussion about the systemic challenges faced by blind students in academic spaces. Participants learned about support mechanisms like tactile pathways and buddy projects that significantly ease mobility and learning transitions. Sessions on orientation and mobility covered initiatives like bridge courses and parent projects were also conducted which aids students in navigating their environment and advancing academically.
Throughout the day, participants explored a variety of assistive devices, including screen readers, navigation tools, Braille-enabled laptops, smartphones, and applications like Microsoft Lens, Mendeley, and OneNote. These tools were demonstrated for their real-world application in note-taking, content organisation, and science education. Additionally, techniques for creating Braille versions of science textbooks were showcased to ensure subject inclusivity.
The workshop also introduced attendees to the “Understand the Student” initiative—a program designed to map students’ learning patterns, accessibility needs, and personal experiences to create more tailored academic support structures.
A separate segment focused on research methodologies, including data collection, analysis, and survey tools that would help students contribute to inclusive policy-building in education. Prof. Someshwar Sati expressed sincere appreciation to IIT Delhi and Dr. Danana for facilitating this learning opportunity and highlighted the importance of such knowledge-sharing in bridging the accessibility gap in higher education.
Discussion Session: “Bollywood’s Gaze: Representation of Disability in Hindi Cinema” – 14th November 2024
On 14th November 2024, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, organized a discussion session titled “Bollywood’s Gaze: Representation of Disability in Hindi Cinema.” The event provided a critical space for students and faculty to discuss the portrayal of disability in popular Hindi films and how such portrayals influence societal norms.
The session began with the screening of carefully selected scenes from films like Margarita with a Straw, Andhadhun, Fanaa, and Kaabil. These films, though seemingly progressive on the surface, revealed deeper concerns when closely examined. Students were encouraged to analyze not just the characters, but the message the film carried and the larger narrative of the film. It soon became evident that disability in Bollywood is often treated more as a plot device than as a lived experience.
A recurring critique was the tendency of Bollywood to evoke pity rather than genuine empathy. Many films fall back on using disability as a means to dramatize the story or glorify the efforts of abled characters. Rather than portraying disabled individuals as full and complex people, they are often shown as either helpless or exceptionally heroic — both of which can create unrealistic and harmful stereotypes. The idea of the “supercrip” — a disabled character who overcomes every imaginable obstacle to inspire others — was also brought up, with students discussing how such portrayals put unfair pressure on real people with disabilities to constantly “prove” their worth.
One of the most discussed films was*Margarita with a Straw, particularly in terms of its treatment of sexuality and the male gaze. The film, which follows a young woman with cerebral palsy exploring her identity and desires, was praised for breaking silences but also critiqued for still viewing the protagonist through a somewhat infantilizing or voyeuristic lens. The portrayal, though groundbreaking in some respects, wasn’t free of the biases that often color cinematic depictions of disability.
Prof. Someshwar Sati, who led the discussion, added depth to the conversation by highlighting how disability in cinema is sometimes portrayed through a moral lens — where disabled characters are shown as either excessively good or villainously manipulative. This binary, he explained, strips away the humanity and diversity of disabled experiences and can reinforce long-standing prejudices in subtle but dangerous ways.
Throughout the session, students reflected on the power of cinema in shaping public perceptions. They agreed that while representation is improving in some areas, there’s still a long way to go in ensuring that disabled characters are written with authenticity, nuance, and dignity. The conversation concluded with a call to action — not only for filmmakers to do better but also for audiences to become more critical and conscious of what they consume.
Panel Discussion: “Overlapping Identities – Intersectionality: Disability and Gender”– 24th January 2025
On January 24, 2025, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), in collaboration with Parivartan, hosted an engaging and thought-provoking panel discussion on the theme “Intersectionality: Disability and Gender.” The event brought together academics, students, and activists to explore how overlapping identities — particularly gender and disability — impact lived experiences, often creating multiple layers of marginalization. The session was moderated by Prof. Someshwar Sati and featured two distinguished speakers: Prof. Renu Addlakha from the Centre for Women’s Development Studies and Prof. Shubhangi Vaidya from IGNOU.
The atmosphere at the venue was welcoming and thoughtful, with panelists being greeted with planters as a token of appreciation — a small yet meaningful gesture that reflected the spirit of the event. The discussion opened with a brief introduction to the concept of intersectionality — a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw — which recognizes that social categories like gender, disability, caste, race, and class don’t exist in isolation but intersect to create unique forms of discrimination and privilege.
Prof. Renu Addlakha offered a nuanced perspective on how disability is experienced differently based on gender. She emphasized that while both men and women with disabilities face marginalization, women often deal with an added layer of invisibility, vulnerability, and social control. Her discussion around the *sexual gaze* — and how disabled women are often viewed as either asexual or hypersexualized — sparked critical reflection among the audience. She argued that the lived realities of disabled women are often ignored not just in mainstream discourse but also within feminist and disability rights spaces themselves.
Prof. Shubhangi Vaidya expanded the conversation by addressing the role of **social and political movements** in creating visibility and pushing for inclusive policies. She pointed out the importance of not treating disability and gender as two separate silos but understanding how they intersect in the everyday lives of individuals. Her reflections on privilege — including how certain forms of disability or gender expression are more “acceptable” than others — challenged the audience to think more deeply about how inclusion must also be about acknowledging differences within communities.
A recurring theme in the discussion was the lack of representation of disabled women in media, policy spaces, and leadership roles. The panelists agreed that true inclusion goes beyond tokenism — it involves amplifying voices that are often left out of the conversation altogether. There was also an honest acknowledgement of the work still left to do — even within progressive circles — to ensure that intersectional identities are fully recognized and respected.
The event concluded with a vibrant Q\&A session where students asked thoughtful and challenging questions, leading to further meaningful dialogue. Prof. Sati wrapped up the event with final remarks, thanking the speakers and the audience for their engagement and insights.
Paricharcha: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 – 29th January 2025
On 29th January 2025, the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, hosted a focused discussion under its *Paricharcha* series on *The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016*. The session aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the legal and policy frameworks that govern disability rights in India, while also encouraging a critical look at how these frameworks function (or fail to function) in real life.
The event attracted students from various disciplines, along with faculty members and disability rights enthusiasts. The discussion began with an overview of the RPwD Act, 2016 — a landmark piece of legislation that aligns India’s disability rights framework with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), to which India is a signatory. The Act was celebrated for its recognition of 21 types of disabilities, as well as its expanded definitions and emphasis on dignity, accessibility, non-discrimination, and equal opportunity.
As the conversation progressed, the focus shifted to the **key provisions of the Act**, including legal recognition of the rights to education, employment, barrier-free access, and protection from abuse and exploitation. A particularly powerful part of the discussion centered around the **social, financial, and reproductive rights** of persons with disabilities — areas that are often overlooked in both public discourse and policy implementation. Participants acknowledged the Act’s progressive intent but also questioned how far these rights have translated into real-world change.
A major concern raised was the persistent **gap between policy and practice**. Students and speakers alike pointed out that while the law may appear inclusive on paper, its implementation remains deeply flawed. Many government schemes are either underfunded or poorly managed. In several cases, participants noted instances where funds earmarked for disability welfare are misallocated or not fully utilized. This opened up a broader dialogue on **bureaucratic inefficiencies** and the urgent need for **accountability and transparency**.
Another issue that surfaced was the **lack of awareness** — not just among the general public, but sometimes even among those who are entitled to the protections the Act offers. Students discussed how **grassroots activism, youth engagement, and public awareness campaigns** could play a key role in bridging this gap. It was clear that while legal reform is essential, social change must accompany it in order to create an inclusive and accessible society.
The session concluded with a round of reflections, where students shared their personal takeaways. Many expressed a newfound understanding of the complexities involved in disability rights and the importance of going beyond token gestures to advocate for structural change. There was a general sense that discussions like these are crucial in not only educating people but also in motivating them to take action — whether that be through research, advocacy, or simply by becoming more conscious citizens.
ANTARDRISHTI: An Academic cum Sensitisation Workshop-17/Feb/2025
A workshop on disability awareness, “ANTARDRISHTI: An Academic cum Sensitisation Workshop,” was conducted by the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, at Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur (SGTB) Khalsa College on February 17th. Welcoming the team from the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), Kirori Mal College, Mr.
Ritwick Bhattercharjee from the Department of English, SGTB Khalsa College, laid stress on the need for sensitizing society at large, particularly the younger generation, on matters pertaining to disability. There is a great need, he said, to change the way the non-disabled world perceives disability and people with disabilities.Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Someshwar Sati, the coordinator of the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), thanked the faculty of SGTB Khalsa College for giving them an opportunity to interact with their students. The three-hour event was structured into four distinct segments, each designed to foster a deeper understanding of disability and its societal implications.
At the outset of the program, a disability awareness video titled “IAN” was screened. The screening served as a catalyst for a thought-provoking discussion on the disability experience and the role society plays in shaping it. The video also triggered a discussion on various aspects of disability experiences. As Kehnesha Thomas conducted the discussion, it provoked the participants into thinking about the role society plays in shaping a disabled person. The participants came forward with insightful comments on the way the non-disabled world marginalizes and even excludes people with disabilities from day-today social interaction. This discussion set the tone for the rest of the workshop, encouraging participants to reflect on their
perceptions and attitudes towards disability.The second segment of the workshop comprised a series of simulation activities that provided participants with an insight into the existence of deaf and blind people and how they navigate through their daily lives, relying on their senses rather
than lamenting their sensory loss. The simulation activities were conducted by Tamanna Yadav, Kashish Gavendra, and Aditya Bishnoi. While Tamanna made the participants communicate with each other without using sound, Kashish and Aditya made them perform routine activities like pouring water from a bottle into a glass, drawing pictures on paper, identifying
currency notes, and moving through the room with blindfolds on. These exercises provided participants with an understanding of the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in their daily lives.
The third segment featured a skit titled “The Big Lie,” performed by the students of the Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT), KMC, which poignantly highlighted the condescending attitudes often directed towards individuals with disabilities. Based on the dictum “Meet the person first, and his/her disability later,” this performance not only underscored
the need for a more inclusive and sensitive societal attitude but also sparked a thoughtful discussion among the participants.
The fourth and final segment consisted of an academic presentation on disability and humor by Anukriti Bajpai, offering a unique perspective on the complex interplay between these two seemingly distinct concepts. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Shweta Khilnani, expressing heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the students of SGTB Khalsa
College. The overall feedback from the participants was overwhelmingly positive, with the workshop being described as an enriching, impactful, and eye-opening experience. By combining educational content, interactive activities, and thought provoking performances, the event successfully created a valuable learning experience for all involved.
Antardrishti(at gargi college)
ANTARDRISHTI 2.0: An Academic cum Sensitisation Workshop-18/02/2025
On the 18th of February the Centre for Disability Research and Training, Kirori Mal College was invited by Gargi college to conduct ,”ANTARDRISHTI 2.0: An Academic cum Sensitisation Workshop,” Spanning over three hours, The workshop was held in the Seminar room of the host institution, aimed to cultivate a better understanding of disability and its broader social dimensions. The session commenced with an introductory overview of disability, followed by a poignant short film, named “IAN” that portrayed the lived realities and emotions of persons with disabilities. This led to a stimulating discussion on navigating an ableist society. This was followed by a series of stimulation exercises conducted by students of CDRT.
The students and faculty of gargi college were blindfolded and asked to perform everyday tasks such as pouring water from bottle to glass, identifying currency notes, drawing pictures and navigating room, To participants this turned out to be an immersive experience that enable them to look , at performing these tasks from the perspective of those with visual impairments. These stimulation activities made the participants reflect on the lived life experiences of blind people, fostering in them a strong sense of empathy and awareness.
A Short but powerful theatre piece titled “The Big Lie” was staged, which critiqued patronizing societal attitudes and confronted entrenched biases surrounding disability. This compelling performance opened the floor to a vibrant exchange of views among attendees, reinforcing the urgency of fostering dignity and inclusivity. The workshop culminated in an engaging academic presentation titled “Unpacking Disability Humour in Firdaus Kanga’s Trying to Grow,” which examined how humor can serve as both a coping mechanism and a form of resistance in the context of disability. Students of Gargi College expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to engage with such meaningful content. The event drew to a close with a formal expression of gratitude from Dr. Modita Mohile and Dr. Krishna Kumar. Through its blend of academic insight, hands-on learning, and compelling performance art, the workshop succeeded in fostering a more informed, compassionate, and inclusive outlook among participants.
Panel Discussion on Disability Rights in Viksit Bharat
On February 19, 2025, the Centre for Disability Rights and Transformation (CDRT) in collaboration with La Politique,Department of Political Science, Kirori Mal College, successfully hosted a panel discussion on “Disability Rights in Viksit
Bharat”. The event brought together esteemed panelists, including Armaan Ali, Executive Director of the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP), and Murlidharan V, a prominent advocate from the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD).The panel discussion commenced with a warm welcome note from the organizers, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of disability rights in the context of Viksit Bharat. The esteemed panelists shared their insights and expertise, shedding light on the critical role of disability movements in shaping rights and advocating for inclusivity.The discussion emphasized the significance of family support in empowering individuals with disabilities. Panelists highlighted the intersections of disability, gender, and family dynamics, underscoring the need for a nuanced understanding of these complex relationships. The importance of creating a supportive ecosystem that enables
individuals with disabilities to thrive was a recurring theme throughout the discussion.
The panelists also examined the issue of education inclusivity, stressing the need for disability-focused courses and stronger advocacy. Dr. Gaurav Panwar, a respected expert in the field, highlighted the importance of integrating disability awareness in education, emphasizing that this would not only promote inclusivity but also foster a more
empathetic and understanding society.
Mr. Murlidharan V called for a stronger movement to advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the need for collective action to bring about systemic change. Mr. Armaan Ali, in his address, urged Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to recognize their worth and actively demand their rights, stressing that empowerment begins with self-advocacy.The session concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the importance of inclusion as a priority in Viksit Bharat. The panelists collectively urged stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and civil society organizations, to work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society.In his vote of thanks, Prof. Someshwar Sati expressed his gratitude to the panelists, organizers, and attendees for their active participation and engagement. The event served as a significant step towards promoting disability rights and
inclusivity, and it is hoped that the discussions and recommendations will contribute to the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable society for all.The panel discussion on “Disability Rights in Viksit Bharat” was a resounding success, marked by thought-provoking
discussions, insightful presentations, and a renewed commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility. As the country strives towards becoming a developed nation, it is imperative that the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities are prioritized, and this event served as a crucial step in this direction.
Report on Add-On Course on ‘Disability Studies’ organised by The Department of
English, The Bhawanipur Education Society College in collaboration with CDRT, Kirorimal College, New Delhi
Course Objective: Disability sensitization and initiation into Disability Studies as an
upcoming area of inter-disciplinary research and scholarship. Course Outcome: The course will provide the participants with important insights into the
nuances of Disability Studies as an emerging area of intersectional research and policy
making. Brief Report: The Department of English organised a 30 Hours Add-On Course on
‘Disability Studies’ in collaboration with the Centre for Disability and Research Training,
Kirorimal College, New Delhi from 7 th April to 30 th April 2025. This initiative is a part of the MoU signed in July 2023. The Course involved sessions with renowned scholars in Disability Studies across several well-known national and international institutions, such as National Institute of Design (Ahmedabad), BITS Pilani (Hyderabad), IGNOU, Central University of Tamil Nadu and Humboldt University (Berlin).
The Course began with a simulation and sensitization session organised by CDRT, Kirorimal
College, under the guidance of Professor Someshwar Sati. These sessions were called
‘Anubhav’ and ‘The Big Lie’, respectively. Twenty online sessions of one and half hours each, were conducted by several experts in the area and a vast range of topics associated with Disability Studies, Definitions, Models and Representations of Disability were addressed. The students learnt to understand the nuances of Disability Studies as a discipline.
For evaluation, the students were divided into groups and assessed on the basis of
assignments such as poster designing, debate, group discussions, reels and skits.
Certificates were issued to the participants on the basis of their performance.
The reels, posters and skits prepared by the students have been archived by the Department.
Accessible Horizon’25 A Purple Festival Celebrating Creativity, Inclusion and Diversity
On 25th April, 2025, The Centre for Disability Research and Training (CDRT) at Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, organized the Accessible Horizons 2025 festival in collaboration with Saksham and ONGC. This event aimed to promote awareness, understanding, and empowerment of persons with disabilities in society.
The festival featured various competitions, including film making, poster and photo essay creation, YouTube shorts, Instagram reels creation, original song composition, and skit presentation. Additionally, there were panel discussions by prominent media personalities and social activists working in the field of disability.
The event provided a great opportunity to capture exclusive content and explore thought-provoking sessions and discussions. By attending Accessible Horizons 2025, participants understood the need to create a more inclusive society.Overall, it inspired audiences to adopt inclusive values and practices.
🔗 Drive link for pictures and videos of events in the year 2024-25
