04/04/2026
On April 2, 2026, in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, a workshop titled "Autism and Its Impact on the Family" was convened at the Mani Memorial Society, Varanasi. The primary objective of the workshop was to facilitate discussions with parents, siblings, and staff members regarding critical information related to autism, its impact, and the pivotal role of the family. The program commenced with a Ganesh Vandana, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the offering of floral tributes to the idol of Lord Ganesha by the Founder Patron, Mr. B.B. Bhaskar Rao; the Founder President, Mrs. B. Annapurna Rao; and senior parents. Dr. Neela, Secretary of the Mani Memorial Society, Varanasi, formally inaugurated the workshop, outlined its objectives, and invited Ms. Amrita Pandey, Assistant Psychologist, to deliver a lecture on the subject. Ms. Pandey provided the audience with detailed information regarding autism—including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Subsequently, Dr. Dinesh Kumar Gupta, a Homeopathic Practitioner, took the floor and shared comprehensive details regarding prenatal screenings for the prevention of autism, as well as the treatment modalities available within the homeopathic system of medicine. He further emphasized that treating autism solely through medication is not fully feasible, as the most significant and positive therapeutic impact is primarily achieved through various behavioral therapy methods. As the next segment of the workshop, a short video was screened to provide the audience with practical insights into autism, its various types, and its associated symptoms. Following this, Dr. Neela, a Rehabilitation Psychologist, shed light specifically on the role of the family in the context of autism. She noted that if parents make an effort to understand their children first, the children will, in turn, gradually begin to pay attention to what their parents say. Following her address, Dr. Neela appropriately answered questions raised by the parents and encouraged them to develop structured strategies for their interactions with their children. Finally, the Founder Patron, Mr. B.B. Bhaskar Rao, requested the parents to share their observations regarding the changes they have noticed in their children since joining the institution, so that even more effective work can be undertaken to support the children. One by one, all the parents shared their observations regarding the positive changes they had noticed in their children, as well as their specific needs. Subsequently, the President of the organization, Mrs. B. Annapurna Rao, emphasized the importance of fostering a positive attitude towards the children, thereby encouraging them to perform their activities with even greater enthusiasm. Finally, Dr. Neela, Secretary of the Mani Memorial Society, Varanasi, expressed her gratitude to everyone for their presence, and the program concluded with refreshments and tea.
