Ability Foundation

PUBLIC EVENTS

Our inclusive public events play a crucial role in breaking stereotypes and showcasing the talents of persons with disabilities. These events provide a platform for individuals to demonstrate their skills, emphasizing that talent transcends disabilities. By showcasing exquisite inclusive public events, we invoke a feeling of awe and appreciation among all spectators. These innovative public events challenge societal misconceptions and promote understanding. They, not only empower talented individuals with disabilities but also inspire communities to recognize the diverse capabilities that lie within and ultimately pave the way for greater inclusivity and equality.

Indeed, we would go so far as to say that our public cultural events are not just events; they are movements that pave the way for greater awareness, advocacy, and change within the cultural & social universe and beyond. They remind us that everyone deserves to have a share of all that constitutes life and echoes in the hearts of all audiences.

ABILITYFEST: INDIA INTERNATIONAL DISABILITY FILM FESTIVAL & SOUND OF SILENCE

At Ability Foundation, our unwavering commitment lies in forging connections between individuals with disabilities and the wider community, fostering understanding and empathy through art and storytelling. It is with this vision that AbilityFest, a vibrant celebration of cinema, came to life.

AbilityFest: India International Disability Film Festival is a biennial event dedicated to showcasing remarkable films from across the globe that illuminate the experiences and perspectives of individuals with disabilities. This inspiring festival was initially conceived by the esteemed Shri. P.K. Nair—a revered film critic, consultant, and former Director of the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) in the year 2005.

60 Seconds to Fame

In addition to its film showcase, the festival introduces "60 Seconds to Fame," a nationwide one-minute film competition designed to provoke thought and inspire deeper reflection on disability issues. This innovative initiative invites filmmakers from all backgrounds to contribute their unique perspectives, further enriching the discourse around disability representation in cinema. AbilityFest embodies the spirit of inclusivity, championing the ethos of a society that embraces all voices and highlighting the significance of universal accessibility.

Sound of Silence

An example of this commitment to inclusion is reflected in the groundbreaking event, Sound of Silence, held at Sathyam Cinemas in Chennai in September 2005 to coincide with International Deafness Awareness Week. This unique initiative sought to bridge the gap between the hearing and non-hearing communities, creating a platform for shared understanding and connection.

Sound of Silence Experience

Sound of Silence featured two captivating components: a day-long screening of silent films in a mainstream theater and a week-long introduction to Sign Language. The theater was adorned with thought-provoking posters and illuminated displays, enhancing the ambiance and setting the stage for a transformative experience.

Throughout the day, audiences were immersed in the art of silent cinema, discovering how individuals with hearing impairments engage with film. The highlight of Sound of Silence was the evocative screening of the silent classic, Light of Asia, brought to life by the enchanting live music of Shri. Sriram Parasuram and his orchestra, recreating the magic of the original silent film era in a mesmerizing tribute to both cinema and the power of sound.