The Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) is set to break new ground in 2024 by prioritizing accessibility for all attendees. Svayam, a prominent organization committed to advancing accessibility, has been named the Accessibility Partner for the 18th edition of MIFF, taking place from June 15th to 21st.
For the first time in its history, MIFF will ensure that the entire festival is fully accessible to people with special needs and reduced mobility. This milestone collaboration highlights MIFF’s commitment to inclusivity, offering a cinema experience that transcends traditional barriers.
Svayam’s involvement will be pivotal in transforming the festival into a model of accessibility. The organization will carry out an extensive access audit of the festival venue. Additionally, they will provide specialized training sessions for festival staff, volunteers, and participants. These sessions will cover essential topics such as accessibility etiquette, terminology, and best practices to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees.
Prithul Kumar, the Festival Director and Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled to have Svayam as our accessibility partner for MIFF 2024. This is a historic moment for MIFF, as it will be the first time we are making the festival venue fully accessible to people with special needs. This collaboration will broaden the festival’s reach, allowing more participants to enjoy screenings, masterclasses, panel discussions, and other events. With Svayam’s expertise, we aim to create a festival environment where everyone can engage with the magic of cinema.”
Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson of Svayam, shared her excitement about the initiative. “Accessibility is a fundamental right, and Svayam is dedicated to ensuring that spaces are welcoming to all. We are honored to partner with MIFF 2024 and are eager to contribute to an international film festival experience that is not only culturally enriching and entertaining but also inclusive and accessible to everyone.”
As MIFF 2024 prepares to welcome film enthusiasts from around the globe, the partnership with Svayam signifies a significant step towards creating a truly inclusive cinema experience. The collaboration underscores the festival’s commitment to making the arts accessible to a broader audience, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy and participate in the vibrant world of film.
