INTRODUCTION

AAVAA DINGI 2024 is declared as International Inclusive Music and Dance Festival. International teams along with the local artists and differently abled talents came together through music and dance to showcase their talent and inspire the world. This event took place on February 25th 2024 in IIT MADRAS (Open Air Theatre).

THE LAUNCH

Finally, after months of meticulous planning and coordination, AAVAA DINGI - the International Inclusive Music and Dance Festival came to life. Launched inclusively with a lighting of Lamp by Dr. Jane Prasad, Registrar; Shri. AnuradhaSriram, Playback Singer; Dr. Alfred Benjamin, DCF Voice Director; Ms. Kendriya, Special Educator in India’s No.1 University’s, Open Air Theatre - IIT MADRAS, which stands for the value of inclusion and cultural diversity, the festival featured an eclectic lineup of performances, including traditional music and dance forms from various countries, contemporary fusion acts, and specially curated pieces that highlighted the talents of artists with disabilities.

Ziskakan Band – It was amazing to see how they incorporate the diverse sounds of Africa, Asia, and Europe into their music, creating a unique fusion. Through their singing and poetry, Ziskakan carries a whole set of Reunion Island values and brought the beauty of Creole poetry to life. I believe that their performance was the most unforgettable experience.

Voice for Unity the DCF Band – A multi-talented inclusive band where people with multiple disabilities collaborating with the usual musicians created a magical experience. Along with some well-known cover they also delivered the originals.

Inclusive dance

It was not a usual Bharatanatyam. DCF Voice tried for the first time to bring a inclusive one. A girl with autism was trained and collaborated with 4 dancers to scintillate and mesmerize the crowd. It was a fusion of eastern and western music spoken through Bharatanatyam.

Malaikambam – Ancient acrobatic dance piece was also a part of the event which was by differently abled dancers and artists. 13 differently abled artists performed showing their incredible talents. The crowd owed a standing ovation for their extra-ordinary performance.

Inclusive visual arts

The story of inclusivity was depicted through mime. The life of Eilidth a special dancer from Scotland and Jothi a special musician from India, were played as mime and brought the audience into tears. Followed by that the casting of PROXIMUS film was spellbound.

Eight emerging disabled artists in Scotland, Mexico, Italy and India have created original dance and music pieces digitally with fellow artists in each of the four countries. 4 disabled dancers in Scotland and Italy have created original dance pieces separately and collaboratively for film.

And 4 disabled musicians in Mexico and India have created original music for the dance pieces. Four mentors have helped and guided the emerging artists through the creative process enabling the disabled dancers and musicians to work beyond boundaries. Ms. Jothi and Mr. Prem Bhagawan as special musicians worked in this incredible project.

 PRE – EVENT COMPETITIONS

DCF had organized three different kinds of competitions for the students to build the value of inclusivity among the next generation. All the participants were given free pass to see the festival too. The team had planned for Essay Writing and Painting competition for the school students and for college students ADZAP was conducted. Rajeshwari. V won the first prize in Painting competition and Tejesree from KV school, IIT won the first prize in Essay competition. Loyola College (B.com) won the ADZAP competition. Nearly more than 300 students participated in all these competitions.

In addition to these competitions, consider incorporating elements of inclusivity into the judging criteria. For example, evaluate entries based on their ability to communicate messages of inclusivity effectively, their representation of diverse voices and experiences, and their potential to inspire positive change. By highlighting and celebrating inclusivity through these competitions, you can foster greater awareness, understanding, and engagement within your community.

 BIG FATTY THANK YOU

We would like to thank all our well-wishers; donors; sponsors and volunteers for their generous support.

Without your dedication and commitment, none of this would have been possible. Your belief in our cause and willingness to contribute your time, resources, and expertise have made a meaningful difference in the lives of special children.

We are continually inspired by your kindness and generosity, and we are truly honored to have you as part of our AAVAADINGI family. Your support serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement, motivating us to continue our inclusivity mission. As we move forward, please know that your contributions will continue to make a lasting impact, empowering us to create positive change and build a brighter future for all.

Special thanks to MRF Paints as a cause partner;

IITM & R2D2 as a venue partner;

Hello FM as a radio partner;

UNIBIC as our cookie partner;

Pepsico as our beverage partner

Exodus as our Artist Partner

Prodapt as our gift partner

Paragon Music and Dance & British Council as our knowledge Partner

All the volunteers were felicitated with a spirit of volunteering certificate and top 3 volunteers were honored distinctly.