Archive · 28 Sep 2025
Inclusive Durga Puja: Autistic Children Experience Pandal Hopping
Imagine a special event where kids with autism could enjoy the Durga Puja festival!
The India Autism Center and massArt organized a special trip called 'Mahalaya Parikrama'.
Over 200 kids visited decorated temples (pandals) in Kolkata, specially designed to be welcoming.
Volunteers made sure it was calm and fun.
One boy loved the art because it reminded him of his own drawings.
Some kids especially enjoyed riding the bus with friends.
They also had a chance to shine in an art fair showcasing their work.
The goal was to make sure everyone could enjoy the festival together.
Over 200 specially-abled children and families participated in a curated pandal-hopping experience.
The event, organized by the India Autism Center, aimed for an inclusive and comfortable experience.
Volunteers underwent sensitivity training to accommodate the needs of the children.
The Autumn Art Fair at the Alipore Jail Museum displayed artworks by over 500 specially-abled children.
The initiative sought to normalize the presence of autistic children in public celebrations.
- Who
- Specially-abled children and families
- What
- A curated pandal-hopping experience and art fair
- When
- Durga Puja season
- Where
- Kolkata
- Why
- To provide an inclusive and accessible Durga Puja experience for children with special needs.
- Initiative Name
- Mahalaya Parikrama
- Organizer
- India Autism Center (IAC)
- Collaborator
- massArt
- Participants
- Over 200 specially-abled children and families
- Objective
- Inclusive Puja experience
- Additional Event
- Autumn Art Fair at Alipore Jail Museum