Svayam Partners with International Film Festival of India to Enhance Accessibility for All Attendees
by EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | November 12, 2024 | News
Svayam International Film Festival of India
Svayam, a key advocate for barrier-free environments, has partnered with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) as the Accessibility Partner for the 2024 edition, taking place from November 20 to 28 at Marriott Resort, Goa. This collaboration also includes the festival's Film Bazaar, running from November 20 to 24, where Svayam will emphasize inclusivity and engagement for audiences with diverse abilities.
For the first time, IFFI's venues will feature accessibility enhancements such as ramps, handrails, and tactile pathways to better support attendees with mobility and visual impairments. Accessible parking spaces have also been designated near the venues for individuals with physical disabilities.
Svayam is conducting an accessibility review of the festival venues and providing training for volunteers, staff, and officials to foster inclusive and respectful interactions with individuals with reduced mobility. Additionally, Svayam held a sensitization session in October for IFFI's social media and website teams to ensure the festival's online platforms meet accessibility standards.
Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson, Svayam, said, “Svayam is proud to partner with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting as the Accessibility Partner for the 55th IFFI and 18th Film Bazaar, following our successful collaboration with NFDC at MIFF 2024. We commend the Government of Goa, led by the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, for prioritizing accessibility and inclusion. For the first time in IFFI’s history, accessibility for people with reduced mobility will take center stage, marking a historic and transformative step toward inclusivity. Cinema has the power to unite, inspire, and transcend barriers. Svayam is committed to ensuring that everyone can fully engage in this inclusive celebration of cinema and storytelling regardless of their ability.”
Taha Haaziq, Secretary, Office of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Goa, said, “I am deeply committed to advancing accessibility across Goa, from enhancing public infrastructure to championing universal design. This year, having Svayam as the Accessibility Partner for IFFI 2024 marks a meaningful step forward in our mission. Together, we’re not only working to make this festival accessible but also setting a powerful example of inclusivity. With Svayam’s 24 years of expertise, including their work at the Mumbai International Film Festival, we’re creating an IFFI that everyone can fully enjoy and participate in, moving Goa closer to becoming an inclusive society for all.”
Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said, “IFFI this year is going to be an accessible festival. Svayam has agreed to be our Accessibility Partner, and we are ensuring that IFFI this time is completely inclusive for all cinephiles with accessibility features like audio descriptions, sign language interpretations and all the venues are being made physically accessible.”
This collaboration also includes the festival's Film Bazaar, running from November 20 to 24, where Svayam will emphasize inclusivity and engagement for audiences with diverse abilities.