Delhi's Blind Relief Association Diwali Bazaar in full swing

Shoppers thronged multiple Diwali bazaars over the weekend but the Blind Relief Association Diwali Bazaar remains a favourite during Diwali celebrations in Delhi. It’s a ritual for many to attend the bazaar for festive shopping and indulge in the food offerings.

Fondly known as the 'Blind School Diwali Mela,' this celebration has been a part of Delhi’s cultural fabric for over 45 years.

Empowering the visually impairedAmong 250+ stalls, the Blind Relief Association's own stall is a major highlight featuring handmade products contributed by the visually-impaired. It includes candles and diyas, paper products like bags, envelopes, gift tags, folders, and cloth products like totes, shoe bags, potlis, recycled fabric pouches. Staying true to its eco-conscious mission, the Association uses recycled Braille paper and cloth for packaging to minimize plastic usage. Empowering the visually-impaired, the association also has interactive stations run by trainees of their multi-skill training program handling massage stalls and a cafe with homemade items for attendees.

A festive shopping destinationReflecting its commitment to inclusivity, the Bazaar extends free spaces to NGOs supporting marginalized communities, artisans, and persons with disabilities.

This year’s edition highlights an array of handmade creations – from toys, pickles, and jams to paintings, stationery, and handloom textiles. "People who come to the Diwali Bazaar are very emotionally attached to the candles and diyas made by visually-impaired adults.

For many Delhiites, it's a ritual. It's a must for them to do before Diwali," says Swapna Merlin, head of communication at the association.The Diwali Bazaar is the flagship fundraising event of the Blind Relief Association. Proceeds from sales of items crafted by visually impaired trainees and staff go directly toward funding free education and vocational training programs. Revenue from the stall rentals further supports the Association’s initiatives, allowing it to broaden its reach and impact for the visually-impaired. The association empowers the visually-impaired through skill learning programmes to make them truly independent.