As part of KNMA’s celebration of International Week of Deaf People, this panel brings together diverse Deaf perspectives to explore the relationship between sign language, Deaf culture, communication, identity, and belonging. The conversation considers how these themes intersect with art and creative spaces, and how museums and cultural institutions can foster greater inclusion and participation for Deaf and hearing communities alike.

Moderated by Hardeep Singh, the panel brings together Sunil Sahasrabudhe, Ranveer Kaur, Harshali Nade and Niharika Popli. Together, they share perspectives on Deaf culture, language, accessibility, and ways of creating spaces that support meaningful communication and participation.

Following the panel, a screening of If I Could Tell You, a documentary by Niharika Popli, explores the experiences of Deaf individuals through themes of language, identity, communication, and the human need to express and be understood. Following Charu, a young Deaf woman, alongside a hearing CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) and four young artists, the film considers different forms of visual and performative expression.

About the Contributors

Hardeep Singh is a Deaf artist, designer, and inclusion professional at KNMA, working to advance accessibility and Deaf inclusion in museum spaces.

Sunil Sahasrabudhe is President of the All India Federation of the Deaf (AIFD) and a leader, educator, and advocate for the Deaf community in India.

Ranveer Kaur is a Deaf community leader, Coordinator at the Speaking Hands Institute for the Deaf, and President of The Punjab Association of Deaf.

Harshali Nade is an Indian Sign Language translator and communication professional with experience across news, museums, media, and accessibility. She works to make information more accessible to the Deaf community through ISL translation.

Niharika Popli is a filmmaker, editor, and co-founder of Dilmaya Films. Her work explores language, identity, and belonging. Her debut documentary, Rasan Piya, received the Tareque Masud Award at Film Southasia and a Special Mention at the Mumbai International Film Festival.

While you’re here, explore KNMA’s ongoing exhibitions Inheritors of Earth and In-Rhythm