Chandigarh Carnival: NGO’s set an example, hold one-of-a-kind ramp walk for specially-abled children

Chandigarh, October 27, 2024: In a significant initiative to foster inclusion and equality, Chandigarh hosted a special inclusive fashion ramp walk featuring children with disabilities on the concluding day of the Chandigarh Carnival 2024 at Leisure Valley, Sector 10. This year's carnival theme, 'Inclusive Wonderland', aimed to create a supportive environment for individuals with physical challenges. 

The initiative was spearheaded by the Chandigarh Tourism Department in collaboration with 24 Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) dedicated to promoting inclusivity. The walk received active support from Hargunjeet Kaur, Secretary, Chandigarh Tourism and Madhavi Kataria, Disability Commissioner, UT, Chandigarh. Shabnam Aggarwal from ‘Anandini’ was a major force behind the initiative. 

Sharmita Bhinder, founder of EmPower NGO which curated the vibrant fashion show for special children  stated, "Every step taken on that ramp was a step towards breaking down barriers. Together, we are building a future where everyone has the opportunity to shine. Let’s continue to champion inclusion and create a world that embraces all abilities." Notably, Bhinder recently won the title of Mrs. International in the Empress category at the World Tourism and Cultural Ambassador Pageant 2024 held in Mauritius.

The walk  brought together participants from various NGO’s, showcasing the talents and creativity of the children involved. Apart from EmPower NGO other participating NGO’s included Sadhna, Vatika, Special Olympics Bharat, Parivartan, Asha School, NAB Chandigarh Para Sports Society, SOREM, Mamta Institute for the Blind, Samarth Jiyo, Pingalwara, Bhavan Vidyalaya, Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre, Chandigarh, Down Syndrome Society, She Foundation, INPA, Prabhat, GRIID, Chandigarh Spinal Rehab, Umeed, and the Mental Health Institute.

Among the distinguished models participating in the event were Ruby Singh, Mrs. India 2017; Janhvi Bansal, Mrs. India Pride of North and actress; Jasmine Rana, Finalist of Miss India Earth 2024; and Anita Khanna, known for her roles in Netflix, Zee TV, and both Punjabi & Hindi films. Additional notable participants included Sonu Sethi Hurria, Mrs. India International 2022; Tarvinder Kaur, Mrs. India Classic Inspiration; and Tanmay Pushkar, an actor, director, and producer.

The glam quotient of the unique ramp walk got a boost with Neelam Garg, a winner of North India Fashion Week and a participant in Singapore Fashion Week, also gracing the runway, along with Sim Sandhu, the first female fitness studio owner in Chandigarh and a special mother. What’s more, Darshpreet Kaur, Mrs. Chandigarh also walked the ramp with the specially-abled.

"This unique initiative was a celebration of diversity and a powerful reminder that inclusion enriches us all. By empowering special children to express themselves through fashion, we not only highlight their talents but also promote understanding and acceptance of the specially-abled in the community."