Deepalaya - Enabling Self-Reliance

Did you know that Autism is the third most common developmental disorder? Autism is a lifelong brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behaviour, all starting before a child is three years old.

It has been a growing concern for the world. The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution recently to observe 2nd April as World Autism Awareness Day every year starting 2008. To observe this day, Action for Autism, a non governmental organisation working with autistic people, organized a series of events in New Delhi named ‘Autism Awareness Jamboree’.

Senior Government Officials who were special invites participated enthusiastically in the event. It was well attended by children affected by Autism, their parents, doctors and other caregivers. The highlights of the event included an art carnival and rallies to sensitize the public towards autism. Some of the doctors present also offered free consultation. Banners were displayed to raise awareness among the general public.

The ‘Art Carnival’ organized at India Habitat Center saw an attendance of over 180 children. Deepalaya was an active participant amongst other schools such as Vasant Valley School, Vishwas, Aashish Centre, Inspiration center, Manovikas, Step by Step and Open Door School. Of the 70 children from Deepalaya Schools who attended the event, 17 were autistic. The children created beautiful paintings and patterns with colours. Deepalaya students faced tough competition with students from different public schools and NGOs across Delhi. Deepalaya students were winners yet again. The judges, Alka Mathur and Sudhir Pillai, renowned painters had a tough time deciding the winners.

Chandan, student of class VIII from Deeplaya School Gole Kuan won a cash prize of 500/- Rupees. Laxmi from Deepalaya School Sanjay Colony and Naveen from RJRND School too received a cash prize of 500/- Rupees each. All the other children were given a certificate of participation and a gift hamper, which included a T-shirt, colour pencils, eraser etc.

Sharing his joy, Naveen from RJRN Deepalaya School said, “We enjoyed painting about Holi and Diwali as themes. But I was completely shocked to hear that few children at the competition were not aware about the problem of autism”. Another student Laxmi from Deepalaya School Sanjay Colony was proud to be a part of Deepalaya School as she claimed, “Our school runs special classes for children with special needs and I feel proud to be a part of such a wonderful school”.