Deaf students bring laughter alive through sign language at Indore academy
By TINA KHATRI | INDORE | April 11, 2026
Students of Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy showcase expressive storytelling through Indian Sign Language.
In a refreshing celebration of expression beyond words, students of Indore Deaf Bilingual Academy lit up their campus with a unique “Signed Laughter Show”, proving that humour does not need sound to connect with audiences.
Held at the academy in Gumasta Nagar, the event featured deaf students presenting a series of comic acts based on the theme of laughter and joy. The performances, delivered entirely through Indian Sign Language (ISL), highlighted the power of visual storytelling and expressive communication.
Students brought a wide range of characters to life through gestures, facial expressions and body language. Rupesh Ingle, a B.Com student, impressed the audience with his portrayal of “Baga” from the popular television show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Tejasv Dangi from Class 12 (Commerce) performed as a beggar, while Praveena Gupta, also from Class 12 (Commerce), participated in the comedy sequence.
Manisha Kumari, Class 12 (Commerce), enacted the role of a pregnant woman, and Yogesh Nagar, also from Class 12 (Commerce), appeared as a Sethji. Among the younger participants, Akshara Bandi from Class 9 played a mischievous sister, and Sanskriti Bajpai, also from Class 9, performed as a domestic help.
Pranjal Yadav from Class 10 took on the role of a mentally disturbed character, while Sonakshi, also from Class 10, portrayed an elderly woman. Mitali Rathi from Class 11 (Commerce) acted as a nurse. Harshit Jain from DTISL stood out with a humorous act portraying a mother with a moustache, drawing laughter for its originality and expressive timing.
Teachers highlighted that deaf students engage with humour primarily through visual elements rather than spoken language. The performances demonstrated confident use of signing space, strong expressions and coordinated body movements, making each act engaging for the audience.
“This platform is important because deaf students experience humour visually. Their expressions, body language and Indian Sign Language are their strength, and this show allows them to celebrate that,” — Dr. Usha Punjabi, Founder and Director
The idea of a signed laughter show is unique to such institutions and was conceptualised by Dr Punjabi, who has been honoured by the President of India. The initiative aims to provide inclusive opportunities for deaf students to explore creativity and performance.
The competition was judged by ISL educators Bhagya Prakash Sharma, Yash Patrick and Mayank Singh, while Sunil Patidar anchored the event.
The event not only entertained but also reinforced how humour can transcend spoken language. For the students, it was a platform to express themselves freely, build confidence and showcase their skills.
As the performances concluded, the applause in the room reflected more than appreciation — it marked a celebration of communication without barriers.