Diwali Bazar 2019

Popularly known by the name ‘Blind School Diwali Mela,’ the Diwali Bazar organised by the Blind Relief Association it is one of the oldest, well-known and most awaited events in Delhi.  The week-long Bazar organized regularly since 1980 in the season of Diwali was this year held from 18 – 24 October.

In what started as a small event to showcase the products made by the visually impaired trainees and staff of the Association, the Bazar has grown into one of the biggest festive shopping paradise in Delhi. This year, the Bazar housed more than 250 stalls with vendors from across the country selling a range of eye-catching designer wear, home décor, traditional crafts, gift items, gardening materials, herbal products etc.

The Bazar is still most popular for its colorful candles and diyas made by the visually impaired trainees and staff of the Association in more than seventy-five varieties. In addition, a range of paper products including bags, envelopes, papier-mache plates & cups and cloth products stitched by the trainees was a special attraction.

The bazar was also made open to NGOs at no charge to exhibit and sell products made by differently abled persons or artisans from underprivileged backgrounds.

Relaxation Massage & Storytelling for visitors

Trainees undergoing Relaxation Massage Training Programme at the Association provide soothing head, shoulder and foot massage to the visitors. Another interesting spot was the “Story-Tent” where the visitors get to listen to stories enacted by the trainees in groups. Trained by Foster & Forge Foundation, the trainees narrated the stories of ‘Raja Ke Sau Chehre’, ‘Sheikh Chilli Ke Khayali Pulav’, ‘Miyan Sheikh Chilli Chale Choron Ke Sang Chori Karne’ and ‘Mullah Ke Pravachan’ in groups.

In showing its contribution to a greener planet, plants were sold along with papier-mache pots. No plastics have been used and the products of the Association have been packaged in old Braille papers.

The Blind Relief Association’s Diwali Bazar is an event for a noble cause. The earnings from the Diwali Bazar go towards financing the Association’s diverse services for the visually impaired persons. It also makes the society aware of the capabilities and lives of the visually challenged.