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Empowering And Leisure Time Journeys for Persons with Disabilities in Bodhgaya, India

 #Travelling is often seen as a path to discovery—not only of new places but of deeper insights into oneself and the world. For persons with #disabilities, travel can carry an added dimension of #empowerment, #inclusion, and healing. A recent pilgrimage to #Dambadiwa, #India, organised by the #Damrivi Foundation, beautifully reflected these values.

Among the many highlights of this spiritual journey was the group’s visit to #Bodhgaya, the sacred land where Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment as #Lord #Buddha. #Manique Gunaratne together with the group, comprising persons with and without disabilities, was led by Damrivi Foundation in November 2024. The time at the #Dhamma #Grand #Hotel and #Resort offered not just comfort, but a meaningful opportunity for relaxation and bonding beyond the demands of daily life.

The serene surroundings, warm hospitality, and shared moments of reflection made it a truly inclusive travel experience—demonstrating how accessible tourism can open doors to spiritual and emotional renewal.

#Leisure time is essential for everyone, but for persons with disabilities, it can play a transformative role. It provides space to rejuvenate, build confidence, and engage in social life on equal terms. Sadly, leisure and travel opportunities are often limited due to barriers in #accessibility, cost, or societal attitudes. That’s why inclusive initiatives like the Damrivi Foundation’s pilgrimage are so important.

By creating supportive environments where persons with disabilities can explore, relax, and connect, we pave the way for greater social integration and wellbeing.

This journey to Dambadiwa was not only a spiritual and leisure retreat—it was a powerful model of inclusive travel. It reminded all involved that spiritual spaces, hotels, and public areas can and must be welcoming to everyone, regardless of ability.

As the world moves toward a more equitable and compassionate society, stories like this pilgrimage show us the path. In the spirit of the Lord Buddha’s teachings, it is only through inclusion, kindness, and shared experience that true liberation can be found.

Let us continue to support and promote accessible travel, not just as a right, but as a celebration of human dignity.

Be My AI Be My AI: Group of women sitting on a beige couch in a waiting area. The woman in the foreground is wearing a white dress with a floral eyelet pattern, has dark hair pulled back, and is holding a black purse on her lap. She has a neutral expression and is looking toward the camera. Behind her, two women are sitting on the couch: one in a white dress with long dark hair, and another older woman with short dark hair, wearing a colorful top and smiling. There is a green reusable shopping bag and some other bags next to them. The background features wooden paneling and beige curtains. Part of another person, wearing a striped shirt and light pants, is visible on the left side of the image, but their face is not shown. The overall atmosphere suggests a casual or travel setting.

A woman standing on a red carpet in front of a building entrance. She is wearing a white, short-sleeved, button-up blouse and a long, white skirt with eyelet patterns. She has medium-length dark hair pulled back, and is wearing sandals. On her left wrist, she has several white bangles. She has a black strap over her right shoulder, possibly from a bag or purse. Behind her to the right, there is a white statue of an elephant on a platform at the top of granite steps. To the left, there is a large potted plant with green fronds, and further back, a golden statue of a seated Buddha is visible near a window. The building has a polished stone facade with vertical decorative elements.

Be My AI Be My AI: Group of women sitting and standing in a lounge area. In the foreground, two women are sitting close together on a beige couch, smiling at the camera. The woman on the left is wearing a white embroidered outfit and has a black backpack on her shoulders, while the woman on the right is dressed in a light green kurta with white floral embroidery and white pants, carrying a beige purse. Behind them, several other women are seated on another couch, engaged in conversation. One woman is standing with her back to the camera, wearing a striped shirt and light pants. The setting appears to be indoors, with brown curtains and wooden paneling in the background, giving the space a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

A smiling woman sitting on a beige sofa. She has medium-dark skin, dark hair pulled back, and is wearing a white short-sleeved dress with a subtle leaf pattern and eyelet details. She holds a black purse on her lap and has bracelets on her wrist. In the foreground, there is a green plant with large, variegated leaves. Behind her, there are floor-length brown curtains. The setting appears to be indoors, with a calm and cozy atmosphere.


#Kishara #Manique Gunaratne

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