Delhi – Celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, magician Gopinath Muthukad concluded his two-month-long Inclusive India Bharat Yatra with a vibrant closing ceremony at the Dr. Ambedkar International Convention Centre, Delhi. The event, aimed at raising awareness about the importance of social inclusion for persons with disabilities, was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Social Empowerment Ramdas Athawale. Muthukad symbolically handed over the Bharat Yatra flag to the minister, marking the successful culmination of the initiative.

UN Recognition for a Trailblazing Effort

United Nations Resident Coordinator (India), Shombi Sharp, honored Muthukad by presenting him with a badge of recognition for his exceptional contributions. This recognition underscores the global significance of his mission to promote inclusivity in India. Reflecting on the journey, Gopinath Muthukad expressed deep satisfaction at completing his fifth Bharat Yatra despite numerous challenges. “The opportunity to interact with experts and visit institutions supporting persons with disabilities has further strengthened my commitment to this cause,” said Muthukad. He also emphasized his plans to implement these learnings at the Different Art Centre in Thiruvananthapuram to create more impactful programs.

Celebrating with Distinguished Guests

The event witnessed participation from a host of notable figures, including retired Justice Kurian Joseph and Members of Parliament Shashi Tharoor, E.T. Mohammed Basheer, Rajmohan Unnithan, V. Sivadasan, Benny Behanan, N.K. Premachandran, M.K. Raghavan, Abdul Samad Samadani, Kodikunnil Suresh, John Brittas, A.A. Rahim, P.V. Abdul Wahab, Jose K. Mani, Harris Beeran, Jebi Mather Hisham, Santosh Kumar, P.P. Sunir, and Rajesh Agarwal, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

A Milestone for the Disability Movement

For the first time, an illusionist has completed five Bharat Yatras, making Gopinath Muthukad’s initiative a remarkable milestone. Organized with the support of the Department of Social Justice under the central government, this Yatra reaffirms India’s commitment to an inclusive and empowered future for persons with disabilities. The Bharat Yatra spanned over 50 locations across India’s southern, northern, eastern, and western regions, showcasing events at DEPwD-affiliated institutions, army centers, IITs, universities, and state health departments. Each venue became a platform to spread the message of inclusivity and empower the disability sector.