Q: Tell us about your your son Avyukt.
Ans: My son, Avyukt, was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. At that time, I was leading the
Economics Research unit at McKinsey & Co., and my career was thriving. However, the moment I received his diagnosis, I made the difficult decision to resign and dedicate myself entirely to raising him.The initial years were incredibly challenging. It was hard to reconcile that such a happy, lively child was facing significant developmental issues. As time went on, Avyukt’s behavior began to change drastically. He gradually withdrew into his own world, which was heart-wrenching to witness. Determined to help him, I immersed myself in research and sought treatments worldwide, traveling from Bangalore to London to Philadelphia in search of the best care and therapies available.
Q: How did you cope with the situation emotionally?
Ans: During this arduous journey, I found solace and strength in Daishonin’s Buddhism. This spiritual practice transformed my outlook from “Why me?” to “Yes, me.” It taught me to find joy in our circumstances and to embrace Avyukt with unconditional love, accepting him for who he is. The past 14 years have been a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences. We’ve faced numerous obstacles, but our resolve never wavered. Each challenge we encountered pushed us to find better solutions, driven by the belief that winter always turns to spring. This mindset has been pivotal in navigating the complexities of autism.
Q: How has been Avyukt’s progress?
Ans: In recent years, Avyukt has made remarkable strides. He has discovered a profound passion for art, which has become a beautiful form of expression for him. His talent has blossomed, leading to participation in numerous exhibitions across India. His artwork has garnered attention not only locally but internationally, with pieces sold to art enthusiasts in the US and Johannesburg. One of his proudest achievements was winning first prize in a national science painting competition, a testament to his incredible growth and talent.
Q: How has his condition changed you as person?
Ans: Beyond Avyukt’s personal journey, I have found a renewed sense of purpose. I currently serve as the head of marketing for a foundation dedicated to supporting children with special needs. This role allows me to leverage my professional skills to create a more inclusive and supportive world for these children. It brings me immense satisfaction to contribute to a cause that is so close to my heart, helping to build a brighter future for children like Avyukt.Reflecting on our journey, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the progress made. Avyukt’s resilience and artistic achievements inspire me daily, and I am committed to continuing our work to ensure that all children with special needs receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
