The city witnessed a heart-warming beginning to a movement of awareness and inclusion with the grand inauguration of the much-awaited 2nd Autism Convention Kolkata 2025 — a first-of-its-kind parent-led initiative that redefined conversations around autism and neurodiversity. Themed “By the Parents, for the Parents,” the convention stood out as a touching celebration of courage, compassion, and collective strength — highlighting the remarkable resilience of parents who turned personal experiences into a mission to build a more accepting and inclusive world for individuals with Autism. With a shared vision, the organisers expressed their heartfelt aim to make Kolkata truly a ‘City of Joy’ for all — a city that embraces and celebrates every shade of autism and neurodiversity.
The inauguration took place in the esteemed presence of Upali Roy Nee Mukherjee, Director and Ex Officio Special Secretary, Directorate of Mass Education Extension , State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, West Bengal ; Bedanga Biswas, joint secretary, Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department ; Ms. Merry Barua, Founder Director, Action for Autism and Dr. Jai Ranjan Ram, Consultant Psychiatrist. The ceremony brought together several key figures who have long advocated for inclusion, empathy, and equal opportunities for individuals with autism.
Speaking on the occasion, Upali Roy Nee Mukherjee, Director and Ex-Officio Special Secretary, Directorate of Mass Education Extension, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, West Bengal, said, “The Autism Convention marks an important step toward greater awareness and inclusion. When parents and professionals come together with shared understanding and purpose, it leads to real change. Efforts like this remind us that every individual with autism deserves equal respect, opportunity, and a sense of belonging in society.”
Speaking on the 2nd Autism Convention, Dr Rudrajit Sinha, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Organising Secretary of Autism Convention Kolkata 2025 said, “Understanding autism goes beyond awareness — it calls for compassion, patience, and inclusion in every sphere of life. The Autism Convention is a wonderful example of how collaboration between parents, professionals, and advocates can create real impact. Together, we can build a community that not only accepts neurodiversity but also celebrates it.”
The Autism Convention Kolkata 2025 is an independent, three-day national event dedicated to spreading awareness, understanding, and empathy for individuals on the autism spectrum. The inauguration ceremony set an inspiring tone for the days ahead, bringing together voices that challenged stigma and inspired hope. Moving away from the traditional medical model of autism management, the convention placed strong emphasis on the social model — advocating community parenting and working towards making Kolkata a truly autism-friendly city. Rather than focusing solely on therapy, academics, or ‘fixing’ a child with autism, the event highlighted a lifelong, solution-centric approach that supports and empowers autism families throughout their journey.
The inauguration concluded on an emotional yet empowering note. The air was filled with hope, unity, and determination as parents, experts, and advocates came together to push for meaningful change. What made the moment truly special was that it was by the parents, for the parents — a rare initiative led by those who live this journey every day. For many, the day symbolized connection, courage, and renewed purpose — a reminder that inclusion begins with empathy and grows through collective action. The convention opened not just a dialogue but a heartfelt movement toward a world where every individual on the autism spectrum can live with dignity, confidence, and pride.
