Latest news with #Mpower
Mint
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
How autistic creators are using art to reclaim their personal narratives
In a quiet studio filled with soft music and the scent of acrylic paint, 23-year-old Amrit Khurana dips a brush into a swirl of colour. There's no plan, no pre-drawn outline—just a shape, a texture, a feeling. 'My art is intuitive," Amrit says. 'It begins with a sensation and unfolds into something meaningful." For Amrit, who is on the autism spectrum, painting isn't just about self-expression—it's survival. It's regulation. It's identity. Across India, autistic artists, filmmakers, musicians, and writers are pushing back against outdated stereotypes that paint them as incapable. Through their creative work, they are reclaiming narrative control, offering rich, textured insights into what it means to live and create as a neurodivergent person. Their stories aren't footnotes in clinical case files; they are loud, proud testaments to resilience, beauty, and voice. Also read: Garba as therapy? Know why therapists are treating Parkinson's with Indian dance Verbal communication isn't always the default for autistic individuals. For many, art becomes a bridge—a mode of self-expression that doesn't demand conformity to neurotypical norms. Amrit's sensitivity to detail makes her art vibrate with emotional depth. 'Colours hum, textures speak, spaces carry memory," she explains. The sensory overwhelm that often comes with autism finds a safe, malleable outlet on her canvas. This resonates with what Dr Munia Bhattacharya, a clinical psychologist in Gurugram, observes in her work. 'One teenager I worked with found verbal communication stressful, but began expressing herself through stop-motion videos and comic strips. These became her language tools." Storytelling, visual or otherwise, gives autistic individuals agency in a world where their voices are often overshadowed by pathology-focused narratives. Psychotherapist Niyanta Dey adds, 'Art provides opportunities for emotional regulation and healing that traditional talk therapy sometimes can't. I've seen how self-photography, for example, helps instill self-acceptance, especially among young autistic women." FROM SILENCE TO STORYTELLING Autistic narratives in mainstream media often swing between extremes—either the 'tragic burden' or the 'gifted savant.' But the real stories are far more nuanced. According to Dr Gorav Gupta, a senior psychiatrist and CEO of Tulasi Healthcare, 'Storytelling allows people to describe their lives on their own terms, countering the deficit model society too often imposes." Dr Darshita Salian from Mpower agrees. 'Storytelling reclaims narrative power. It validates the diversity of their experiences, showing their identities as multifaceted and dynamic—not defined by limitations but possibility and authenticity." Today, this shift is visible in practice too. From blogs about navigating sensory overload in Indian metros to YouTube channels where young adults script and share skits about daily routines, autistic creators are shaping how autism is perceived—by others and by themselves. Social media platforms have become a vital arena for autistic creators to find community, amplify their work, and escape the tokenism of traditional media. One standout example is Samar Jeet Singh, a 20-year-old baker, traveler, and lifestyle influencer from India—currently the most-followed autistic individual in the country. Alongside his mother Milan Singh, Samar advocates for autism awareness while documenting his love for food, cars, and Bollywood music. 'People used to recommend 'magic medicines' or spiritual healers," Milan recalls. 'But over the years, we've seen more support than stigma. Samar's journey has inspired many." Baking, for Samar, isn't just a job, it's a regulated, repeatable process that aligns beautifully with how his neurodivergent mind thrives. Their Instagram account doesn't dwell on deficits. Instead, it overflows with joy, humor, and everyday wins—proof that autistic lives are not lesser, just different. Also read: Why autism in Indian women often goes unseen For many autistic creators, creative work is not just about representation—it's about survival. As Amrit puts it, 'When I paint, I release tension, confusion, or emotion that might not have words. The canvas becomes a safe container—nothing is too much for it." Salian outlines how structured creative outlets—like journalling, collage, or digital art—can reduce anxiety and aid in emotional regulation. 'It creates a space where sensory preferences are respected rather than pathologised," she explains. Munia points out how digital tools like Procreate offer predictable environments for autistic individuals who might find traditional media overwhelming. 'For some, expressive dance in sensory-integrated settings has been transformative. For others, scripting YouTube videos or writing poetry has been life-changing," she adds. The stereotype of the autistic creator as either a genius or a charity case is fading. As Dey notes, 'Neurodivergent creators are finally receiving the recognition they deserve. Social media has democratized who gets to tell their story." Creators like Aditi Gangrade (@muchmuchspectrum) and Mugdha Kalra (@autismtaleswithmugdha) are leading this shift, curating content that's both personal and political. While this progress is promising, it's still uneven. 'Elite schools in India continue to use deficit-based frameworks," says Munia. 'Even in metros, autistic voices are sometimes celebrated only when they align with marketable talent." Amrit calls out this pattern too: 'People romanticize autism only when it leads to exceptional output. But they ignore the day-to-day challenges. We are not inspirational just for existing—we're artists. Period." So, what do these creators want from the world? 'Stop seeing us as puzzles to be solved," says Amrit. 'See us as people with a different lens." Samar and his mother echo this. 'Autism is not a disease. It's a part of society. Learn, don't judge." Experts agree that inclusion begins with listening. 'Autistic individuals don't need to be fixed," says Gupta. 'They need to be heard." Salian adds, 'It's not about fitting them into our world but letting them shape the world alongside us." This shift demands more than hashtags. It requires educational reform, better access to creative tools, and platforms that prioritize neurodivergent-led content. While they wait for a more inclusive future, autistic creators across India are reshaping not only how autism is perceived but how creativity itself is understood. Divya Naik is an independent writer based in Mumbai. Also read: Mental health: How old is too old for therapy?
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Business Standard
13-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Mother's Day: Postpartum support calls on the rise as stigma fades
Post-Mother's Day, experts say more Indian mothers are breaking silence on postpartum depression and turning to tele-mental health amid rising awareness and lower stigma As the world celebrated Mother's Day on May 11, mental health experts highlighted the growing trend among Indian mothers -- particularly new and expecting ones -- who are turning to tele-mental health services for postpartum struggles amid increased awareness and reduced stigma. Platforms like Mpower's mental health helpline have received nearly 17,000 calls from women in the last four years, of which over 12 per cent were related to postpartum mood disorders and perinatal mental health issues. Experts say this marks a major shift in how mothers, and society at large, are approaching mental well-being. 'Mother's Day should also be a reminder that putting others first while neglecting yourself is not a badge of honour,' said Jyoti Kapoor, Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist at Manasthali. 'The 'good mothers do it all' era is over. We're now in an age where mothers are setting boundaries and prioritising their own mental health, which in turn models healthier behaviour for their children,' Kapoor said. The convenience and accessibility of tele-mental health platforms have become a game-changer, especially for women in remote areas. Rima Bhandekar, Senior Psychologist at Mpower's helpline under the Aditya Birla Education Trust, said, 'We're seeing more women break their silence about postpartum struggles. Access to remote professional support is proving to be a lifeline for many navigating motherhood.' Interestingly, the apparent rise in postpartum depression is less about an actual spike in cases and more about improved diagnosis and greater willingness to seek help. 'Postpartum depression was long underreported in India due to stigma,' Singh explained. She added, 'Now, with regular digital screenings and greater awareness, more mothers are identifying symptoms early and accessing care.' Krishna Veer Singh, CEO and Co-founder of mental health platform Lissun, pointed out that their Sunshine platform has seen a sharp rise in perinatal consultations, saying, 'Mental health is no longer a last resort. It's a proactive step. We're witnessing increased engagement from mothers, children, and working professionals alike,' he said. Experts believe this transformation reflects a broader societal shift where therapy is increasingly normalised across all life stages, from pregnancy to parenthood and beyond.
Indian Express
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘There's no room to play': Priyanka Chopra shares the biggest differences between working in Hollywood and Bollywood; expert on adjusting to a different work environment
Priyanka Chopra recently shared her unique perspective on working in two of the world's biggest film industries—Hollywood and Bollywood. She pointed out how Hollywood runs on extreme precision, with detailed schedules, endless emails, and call times down to the exact minute—like 7:32 a.m. 'The one difference I have seen between Hollywood and Bollywood is that Hollywood has so much paperwork, a hundred emails that will come to you before the next day, and timings are very specific. There's no room to play, unless you are working with a filmmaker who is like that. But within production, it's very tight and it's very very organised,' the Barfi actor revealed. Compared to the West, she shared that here in Bollywood, 'we have a lot more jugaad' – we get stuff done. 'We are a little romantic about it, it's a different way of working. But that's also true to the countries in themselves,' she added. When asked if she misses the laid-back, jugaad type of work, Chopra replied: 'No, I miss slow-motion dancing and singing and speaking in Hindi.' A post shared by Jarp Media (@jarpmedia) Adjusting to a different kind of work environment takes a different level of mental strength. Rima Bhandekar, psychologist, Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust told that workplace atmosphere can influence a person's creative spark. 'In a free-flowing setup, there is more flexibility in thinking, freedom to make different choices, and space to experiment. It's conducive to great ideas—but without some restraint, it can turn messy in the end,' she said. On the other side, a structured setting gives transparency, objectivity, and attention to detail. Great for turning ideas into reality, but too much stiffness in the work set-up can contain your idea in a box. Switching from one to the other? That's a real mental shift. Bhandekar suggested some ways to help you navigate this shift: Know your style: It is important to know what thrives you – Do you like more freedom or focus? Fine-tune your tempo: As per the setting, you need to pace yourself – Flexible roles need structure; structured roles need a spark. Stay inquisitive: Interest helps in tuning into the needs of the setting – Note where and how creative juices flow in your new team. Speak up more: Share your ideas and ask how things get done effectively. Give it time: Every environment has its own pace of working —find your grace time. Creativity isn't just in the setup but it is you who gets it going. Find your vibe, flex, and let your visions keep coming to you—wherever you are.
Indian Express
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘My children mean the world to me': Bhagyashree has a valuable parenting advice ahead of Mother's Day
At a recent event organised for young mothers, actor Bhagyashree shared her two cents on what she has 'learnt through life' about parenting kids and teenagers. 'My children mean the world to me and there is nothing I wouldn't do for them but, if I truly did that I would not be a good mom. Children need to be taught to be independent, to learn through mistakes they make, to rise up when they fall, to grow through adversities and help others who cannot,' the actor said while speaking at the event. Bhagyashree said that while we hold kids' fingers when they learn to walk, parents also need to learn to let go so that kids can run. 'Love doesn't come through need, just as caring is never protection enough,' she captioned the Instagram post with the video of her speech. Rima Bhandekar, psychologist at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust, told that good parenting is all about striking the right balance between guiding and being overprotective. 'As parents, it is quite natural to feel like your child needs protection and shelter all the time, but teaching them to be independent and letting them learn through the mistakes they make can help raise emotionally intelligent and capable children,' she said. According to her, supportive parenting is the way to go, echoing what Bhagyashree said in her video. 'It is all about asking your child what they want to be, without adding 'you should' right after,' Bhandekar said. A post shared by Bhagyashree (@ Supportive parenting is one of the strongest predictors of a child confidently choosing their own career, even if it diverges from parental legacy or societal expectations. Such parents create space for their children to explore what truly feels right by offering resources, encouragement, and emotional stability, while withholding judgement tied to tradition, social status, prestige, or money. This doesn't mean parents shy away from discussing real-world concerns. Instead, they guide their children through a process of critical evaluation, communicating trust, respect, and confidence in their ability to make informed decisions. Bhandekar noted that such an approach helps children understand that their self-worth isn't dependent on fulfilling someone else's dream, but on pursuing their own passion. As a result, they are better equipped to face setbacks and persist through challenges. 'They are more likely to stand firm in their choices, thanks to the nurturing space created by parents who value who they are—not just what they achieve. They pursue careers with purpose, not just to secure any available job. They grow into adults who work with zeal, not out of obligation to others,' she explained. According to Bhandekar, active listening is a crucial part of effective parenting. 'Listen to understand their views, not to redirect or fix. Be curious about what excites them, and support their explorations, stumbles, and changes as they figure things out,' she said. Having faith in your child's career choice is vital, even if you don't fully understand it yourself. 'Let their failure be a learning point, not the end of the story – the definition of success is different for everyone, and comparison doesn't always help,' said the psychologist. According to Bhandekar, a content child is more successful than a stressed one. 'Your child's future isn't always about living your legacy; it's about creating their own,' she said.
Indian Express
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘It came as a relief when..': Neena Gupta on breaking her pregnancy news to Vivian Richards
Neena Gupta is one of the strongest examples of a single mother who successfully raised her daughter — fashion designer Masaba Gupta — amidst societal hate and judgment. In her autobiography, Sach Kahun Toh, she recalled being 'giddy with joy' after discovering her pregnancy. However, she thought it essential to consult the father of her unborn child, Vivian Richards, an internationally renowned cricketer. 'I understood that I wasn't the only person who had a say in the situation. The baby's father, Vivian, had an equal right. So, I called him one day and spoke to him for a long time,' she wrote in her book. ''I'm pregnant, ' I told him. 'Would you have a problem if I were to have your baby?' Vivian sounded happy and said I should go ahead,' the Badhaai Do actor added. For her, this assurance was necessary. 'As much as I wanted this child, I also did not want to go ahead if the father wasn't on board. So, it came as a relief when Vivian supported my decision,' she continued. A post shared by Neena Gupta (@neena_gupta) Rima Bhandekar, Psychologist at Mpower, Aditya Birla Education Trust, told that the tone for a parenting journey is set by the support of a partner during pregnancy since the bond between parents and child starts even before childbirth. 'When the partner shows emotional participation in small things such as showing up for doctor's appointments, talking or playing music for the baby, or simply filling a pregnancy journal together, it helps build deeper connections and become cherished memories for both parents,' she explained. The anxiety experienced by a mother during pregnancy can increase cortisol levels, and if those levels are too high, they may interfere with fetal brain development. According to her, these small loving gestures by the partner help calm the mother's nerves, provide comfort, and increase feelings of togetherness. Bhandekar said that the partner does not need to be ready with all the solutions to pregnancy issues, or read every baby book ever written to provide support — but show their emotional presence by asking her how she's really feeling, normalizing her moods, making time for laughter, and saying comforting words. By being involved in a child's life from day one, the partner steps into the role as a parent and becomes more confident when the baby shows up,' she said. Pregnancy is the start of a new life, and the more love and support a partner shows to the mother, the safer, more loved, and emotionally secure she will feel.
