New Delhi: Delhi’s festive tradition of Diwali Bazaar began Friday, where visually impaired artisans displayed their crafts for sale. The nearly five-decade-old traditional event will conclude on Nov 5. This year’s fair has more than 250 stalls.Chief minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the Blind Relief Association’s seven-day Diwali Bazaar 2026, encouraging people to support visually impaired artisans by purchasing products made by them.During her visit to the fair, Gupta went around various stalls, purchased handmade products and appreciated their creativity and craftsmanship. She said physical challenges should never come in the way of a person’s talent, abilities or dreams, adding that society must recognise and encourage their skills and support their economic empowerment.She announced that decorative and utility items required for Mukhyamantri Janseva Sadan would be purchased from the bazaar. Gupta said supporting products made by visually impaired artisans was a way of strengthening their confidence and self-reliance. She appealed to Delhi residents to visit the fair and encourage their work.The CM also visited Cafe Mast, run by visually impaired youth associated with the organisation’s Multi-Skill Training Programme, and had a meal there. The young staff independently manage everything, from food preparation and customer service to transactions. Gupta appreciated their confidence and efficiency.The CM said Delhi govt was working towards making the capital’s infrastructure fully accessible so that persons with disabilities could lead a life of dignity and enjoy equal opportunities.
