Pune: A documentary titled ‘Living with Autism’ made by the team of Educational Multimedia Research Centre (EMMRC) of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SSPPU) has won the best educational video of the year prize.
The documentary, conceptualised by head of EMMRC Arvind Shaligram, directed by Vasim Pathan and executive producer Vivek Nabar, was awarded by the University Grants Commission - Consortium for Education Communication (UGC-CEC).
“UGC conducts a national level educational video competition and this is the 23rd year since inception. We will receive the citation of certificate at Gujarat University in Ahmedabad at the end of this month,” said Shaligram.
The documentary focuses on the sensitive topic of autism spectrum disorder. It was made with an objective to create awareness about it, so that parents of autistic children seek therapy for their children at the right time. The aim is to enable the parents to think about solutions, stated the documentary makers.
“When we had started the research work and spoke to about 20-25 doctors working in this field, we realised many parents don’t accept their child’s condition. The experts stated that although cases of autism have increased over the years, lack of awareness about the condition persists among several parents.
The condition is largely observed in the age group of 1-10 years. And this condition is seen not only in rural areas but also in urban areas,” said Pathan.
“After learning this fact, we decided to focus on spreading awareness about autism and the need for right therapy to the children. In rural areas, parents hardly realise what has happened to their children, hence their treatment is delayed. While, in urban areas, parents feel embarrased to bring their children out in the society,” he added.
“Through this documentary, we wanted to convey the message that parents need to accept autism so that they begin with the treatment at the right time. Nevertheless, many parents opt for multiple therapies. But according to the doctors, each child has his/her own need and only one good therapy can help them progress. Also multiple therapies cost a lot, therefore parents who are financially unstable can consult a doctor and choose one therapy for their child,” said Pathan.
