New Delhi, 6 November 2026: This Diwali, Sense International India’s 8 operational SPARSH centres across the country are celebrating the festival through a series of inclusive activities. The celebrations go beyond the traditional festivities, creating opportunities for children with deafblindness and multiple disabilities to engage with the cultural significance of Diwali through hands-on activities, creative expression and shared experiences.
In the days leading up to Diwali, children coloured and decorated diyas, creating something with their own hands rather than simply receiving festive decorations. The diyas were also put up for sale, with over 100 units sold, giving children the chance to see their creations appreciated and to experience the value of their own efforts.
On the day of the celebrations, children and staff came together dressed in traditional attire, interacting and learning about Diwali, including the story behind the festival and why it is celebrated, in an environment where each child’s communication and learning needs could be considered.
Activities such as colouring diyas, creating objects and interacting with others can support sensory exploration through colours, textures, shapes and materials, communication and expression of choices and preferences, fine motor skills and coordination, and social interaction with peers and teachers. Seeing their handmade diyas purchased and appreciated also builds confidence and a sense of contribution.
For children with deafblindness and multiple disabilities, participation in everyday social and cultural experiences is an important part of inclusion. By adapting activities to their individual abilities and communication needs, Sense India centres help children become active participants rather than observers, exploring traditions, expressing themselves and building connections with the people around them.
The celebrations reflect a larger belief that every child should have the opportunity to experience cultural traditions, participate in community life and be recognised for what they can create and contribute.
About Sense International India
Founded in 1997, Sense International India (Sense India) is the country’s only national organisation dedicated exclusively to supporting children and adults with deafblindness and multiple disabilities. Over nearly three decades, Sense India has reached 84,000+ children and adults through programmes spanning early intervention, education, rehabilitation, vocational training, livelihood support, capacity building, and advocacy. Through a network of 72 partner organisations across 25 states and a growing infrastructure of direct centres, Sense India works with families, communities, and governments to strengthen services and create greater opportunities for persons with deafblindness. Its advocacy contributed to the recognition of deafblindness under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
