Divya Kala Mela 2026

Why in News?

The 31st Divya Kala Mela 2026 was inaugurated on 14 July 2026 at Ravindra Sadan, Kolkata, by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar. The eight-day exhibition, running until 22 July 2026, showcases products created by Divyang (persons with disabilities) entrepreneurs from across India. The event aims to promote inclusive entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and economic empowerment while providing a national platform for artisans and entrepreneurs with disabilities.

What is Divya Kala Mela?

Divya Kala Mela is a flagship initiative of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It provides a dedicated marketplace where Divyang artisans, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs can directly exhibit and sell their products to consumers.

Launched in December 2022, the initiative seeks to strengthen the livelihoods of persons with disabilities by connecting them with larger markets, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting financial independence. It also raises public awareness about the talents and capabilities of Divyang individuals.

Divya Kala Mela Kolkata Edition: Key Highlights

The 2026 Kolkata edition is significant because it is the first Divya Kala Mela jointly organised by the Central Government and the Government of West Bengal.

Around 40 exhibition stalls have been established at Ravindra Sadan, with a majority of participants belonging to West Bengal. The exhibition features a wide range of products, including:

• Handicrafts
• Handloom products
• Paintings
• Jewellery
• Home décor items
• Organic products
• Traditional textiles
• Lifestyle and utility products

The event also includes cultural programmes, live demonstrations, and interactions between artisans and visitors, providing greater visibility to the work of Divyang entrepreneurs.

Objectives of Divya Kala Mela

The initiative is designed to promote the economic and social inclusion of persons with disabilities by:

• Providing direct market access to Divyang entrepreneurs.
• Encouraging self-employment and entrepreneurship.
• Enhancing income opportunities for artisans with disabilities.
• Promoting the principles of Atmanirbhar Bharat through inclusive growth.
• Creating public awareness about the skills and creativity of persons with disabilities.
• Strengthening dignity, confidence, and financial independence among Divyang citizens.

The programme aligns with the Government’s vision of inclusive development, ensuring that no section of society is left behind in the country’s economic progress.

Previous Editions of Divya Kala Mela

Since its launch in 2022, Divya Kala Mela has been organised in several cities across India, including:

• Srinagar
• Kochi
• Thiruvananthapuram
• Guwahati
• Ahmedabad
• Patna
• Kolkata (31st Edition)

The initiative has gradually evolved into a nationwide platform supporting the marketing and branding of products made by persons with disabilities.

Significance of Divya Kala Mela

Divya Kala Mela reflects India’s commitment to inclusive growth and disability empowerment. By creating direct marketing opportunities for Divyang entrepreneurs, the initiative reduces barriers to economic participation and promotes sustainable livelihoods.

The event also supports the implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which seeks to ensure equal opportunities, non-discrimination, and full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of life.

Such initiatives contribute to the broader goals of social justice, entrepreneurship development, skill promotion, and financial inclusion, while reinforcing the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.”