Astitva 2025 marked a historic milestone for Dance with Wheels — our first-ever offline event and stage performance.

For the first time, 9+ women with disabilities, trained through our virtual programs, came together to perform live on stage in front of an audience of 350+ people.

For many of these participants, this journey was filled with “firsts.”

Some traveled outside their cities for the very first time. A few experienced their first train journey, stepping into a new world beyond their homes. Many of them performed on stage for the first time and faced a large audience with courage and determination.

The event was more than just a performance — it was a celebration of identity, courage, and transformation. Each participant took the stage not just as a dancer, but as a symbol of strength, resilience, and possibility.

From months of virtual practice to standing under stage lights, Astitva 2025 reflected the journey of women who moved from hesitation to confidence, from isolation to expression.

The performances showcased the power of wheelchair dance as a medium of inclusion, creativity, and empowerment — breaking stereotypes and redefining what is possible.

Astitva, meaning “identity”, truly lived up to its name — giving women a platform to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

This event marked the beginning of Dance with Wheels’ offline journey, opening doors for more stage performances, community engagement, and national-level opportunities in the future.