World Autism Day: Hindu Gymkhana offers solace to the autistic

More than 50 children from different schools showed up to celebrate the day

KARACHI:

The historical building of the Hindu Gymkhana was lit up in blue lights on Thursday evening to mark 'World Autism Day'.

With the theme 'Keep calm and light it up blue', the colour of the lights at the Seth Ramgopal Goverdhandas Mohatta Gymkhana went darker as the sun set. More than 50 children from different schools, including Special Children Education Institute (SCEI) and International School of Studies (ISS), showed up to celebrate the day.

"Blue means calmness and coolness," said SCEI principal Saima Haq. "It is relaxing for the mind. We have lit up this beautiful building with blue lights to provide a feel of relaxation to the autistic children."

Talking about her autistic elder brother, 13-year-old Emaan Farhan expressed the bond she shares with him. "I love helping and playing with my 22-year-old brother, Abdullah, when I return home from school. Sometimes it's difficult to get along with him because his mood is unpredictable. At times, he is very silent and, at others, he is also very violent."

To get the children into the mood of the event, a sketch of the Hindu Gymkhana building was placed at the entrance for them to colour it blue with markers, colour pencils and crayons. According to Haq, children were free to choose from among markers, colours and crayons."Colouring and painting are two things which these children are more interested in," shared the mother of Amna, who was colouring the sketch with a blue marker.

The children were delighted to hold LED balloons. "I like this light, I am enjoying," exclaimed autistic 28-year-old Zainab Nisar with joy. "The idea of giving light and colours to these children is commendable," said Dr Mehreen, whose only son, Ayaan, is autistic.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 3^rd, 2015.