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For the past two years, during World Autism Awareness Month, Buddy Up Network partners with Special Hangout, a great social space for neurodivergent children and adults in Mumbai, to host an all-out dance party. The star of our evening is Tryps a.k.a Trishina, a fantastic young DJ and also sister to Rushil, a handsome young man on the autism spectrum, who is a painter and model. This is one night when the community comes together – not to learn about a new therapy, or to disc

For years, ‘autism’ was one of those words in my vocabulary that I actually knew very little about. As mum to a child with Down Syndrome (DS), my world centered around the DS community. I had no reason to interact with the parents autistic children – I never thought I’d have much in common with them, or that autistic kids would have much in common with my son Mihaan. So, when I was looking for a buddy for Mihaan, and our pediatrician suggested he meet Vir, I wasn't quite sure

As I walked into a friend's home for dinner last night, the hot topic of discussion was a video showing a man (a British national) wearing shorts, walking into a bar at a Mumbai club, and on being told that shorts are not allowed, removing his belt and stripping down to his underwear. This screengrab from the CCTV camera was setting WhatsApp on fire and causing reactions  ranging from outrage, disgust and anger. I confess, this is how I felt too. ‘What cheek!,’ I said to the

My son Mihaan, 21, is our family’s social butterfly. Armed with self-confidence, a gift of the gab and a cheeky sense of humour, he sets out each day on a charm offensive that disarms everyone he meets and melts even the hardest hearts. He thrives in company and is the self appointed social secretary of his friend group, and is constantly scouting for - or planning - the next big party. Mihaan (right) pictured with his buddy Vir who has Autism When I think back to my own chil

Caring for a loved one with a disability, neurodivergent condition, chronic illness, or special needs is an act of deep love and commitment. But it is also physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. In India, where family members often take on lifelong caregiving roles, many caregivers quietly carry this responsibility with very little support. Many of them face long daily care routines, therapy schedules, and hospital visits. As a result, most have limited time for the