Author Nivedita Sengputa's book
“Above and Beyond – A Journey with My Daughter”
was launched in a revised edition recently. The book portrays the author's journey with her daughter, Medha.
Reading deeper into the title of the book, Bunny Suraiya, acclaimed columnist, and author of “Calcutta Exile”, said that “Above and Beyond” is a phrase used in citations for bravery in the armed forces.
It is perfect as the title of this book because “bravery is of many types, and the bravery that the Sengupta family has displayed is outstanding.” She said she “was moved beyond words by the courage, the honesty, the transparency, and the love that shines through, in every sentence…"
The book is a testimony to the struggles of a mother, who had to make the world a safer and better place for her daughter Medha who is autistic. The first step in this, was to accept her daughter in her entirety, the second was to give her the same opportunity like any other child of her age is eligible to get. Nivedita’s acceptance, which is uncommon among parents, helped Medha’s progress to a great extent. Nivedita's journey as a doting mother to Medha and her neurotypical son is a lesson for many such parents who often lose hope in the journey.
Nivedita said that during the early years of Medha’s journey, she was often excluded from social events organized by friends and relatives. Sensitization in society was minimal then. Nevertheless, she tried her best to expose Medha to diverse social settings that were in her control. Medha has a lovely group of friends right from Nursery grade. The group meets often on each other’s birthdays even now.
Autism
is poorly understood in our country. Individuals often faces social stigma due to misconceptions and stereotypes. Some perceive individuals with autism as socially inept or intellectually limited, leading to discrimination and marginalization. These misconceptions hinder acceptance and inclusion in society, impacting access to education, employment, and social opportunities. Stigma surrounding autism can also result in isolation and feelings of shame for individuals and their families.
Overcoming these prejudices requires raising awareness, promoting understanding, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support. By challenging stereotypes and embracing neurodiversity, society can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment for individuals with autism.
Nivedita Sengupta
's book is a contribution towards ending social stigma based on autism.
English (US) ·