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Incident at "special needs" Dehradun school exposes gaps in protection of neurodivergent children < Back News, Neurodiversity, Parenting Autistic brothers raped, burnt with cigarettes at boarding school Incident at "special needs" Dehradun school exposes gaps in protection of neurodivergent children MMS Staff 3 Jun 2025 4-min read A disturbing incident in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has brought the urgent need for robust child protection and neurodivergent safety in India to the forefront. Two autistic brothers, aged 9 and 13, from Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, were allegedly raped and physically assaulted at an unlicensed boarding facility. A staff member has been arrested, and the incident has exposed significant regulatory failures in special care institutions across the nation. The alleged abuse against autistic children came to light last Friday when the boys' mother visited them at the school, a facility presented as a boarding option for autistic children with special needs. Upon seeing their mother, both children reportedly disclosed an ordeal that began shortly after their admission in April. Horrific details of the alleged abuse emerge The mother had admitted her sons to the school following her husband’s death, seeking a care solution that would allow her to manage her job. She located the special needs school online. Her recent visit, however, uncovered the alleged abuse. The children identified the accused as Monu Pal (also known as Sonu), 29, from Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh. They alleged he used an iron rod to beat them, burned them with cigarettes to instill fear and silence, and subjected them to molestation and rape. This grim testimony highlights the critical need for comprehensive caregiver background checks in India. Police action and ongoing investigation The mother immediately filed a formal police complaint. Superintendent of Police, Dehradun City, Pramod Kumar, confirmed that a case was registered under sections 64(2) (rape) and 115(2) (voluntarily causing hurt) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with relevant sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. Monu Pal, who resided at the school’s boarding facility, was arrested and jailed. Kumar stated, “The accused, who was staying at the school’s boarding facility, was tracked down. He was arrested and sent to jail.” He added: “We seized the DVR of CCTV cameras installed inside the boarding facility, which was opened three months ago in a four-room residential building. We are also trying to contact the parents of the other two children staying with the two victims.” Police facilitated interviews with the two brothers, utilising translators from the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and assistance from the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR). CCTV footage from the boarding house has been secured as evidence, aiding the Dehradun child abuse investigation. Unlicensed operations uncovered: a systemic failure The Chairperson of the SCPCR, Geeta Khanna, revealed significant operational irregularities. According to Khanna, the unlicensed boarding school was being run by a woman without the necessary legal permits. It housed autistic children, including the victims, who reportedly slept on bunk beds in the same room as the accused. This lack of authorization underscores severe flaws in special needs school regulations in India. Khanna further stated, “A woman was running a special school for persons with disabilities, and first of all, it did not have the necessary permissions to operate such a facility. Recently, they hired the accused, Sonu, but his police verification was not done, and we could not find any appointment letters.” It was also disclosed that the woman operated a separate ‘prep school’ for special children nearby, which had 15 students, four of whom opted for the boarding facility. The trust allegedly operating these facilities was registered in Delhi but had failed to inform local authorities about either. Khanna indicated that Monu Pal was hired on May 16, with the alleged abuse commencing soon after. The sexual harassment allegations have led to the closure of the illegally run boarding school. The investigation is ongoing. The identity of the victims has been withheld in accordance with Supreme Court directives. A deeper crisis: Ensuring safety for Neurodivergent lives Every time news of such horrific abuse against autistic and neurodivergent individuals surfaces – whether in India, or across the globe – it chips away at our hope for a truly inclusive and safe world for neurodivergent people. These stories are not isolated incidents; they are symptomatic of a pervasive societal failure to protect those who are often misunderstood and marginalised. The heartbreaking truth is that no place, no country, feels entirely safe for neurodivergent children and adults. While accountability is pursued, the deeper questions remain: How could this happen? And more importantly, how do we prevent child abuse in special needs facilities? This agonising incident, among many others, underscores the critical need for constant vigilance and robust support systems for neurodivergent children and adults, especially when placed in institutional care. We don’t know how many more institutional abuse stories like this go untold. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Diagnosed with endometriosis, PMDD, and PCOS, Hadid says she wants real change in workplace policies < Back Gender, Health, Work "It should be illegal to work on your period," says supermodel Bella Hadid Diagnosed with endometriosis, PMDD, and PCOS, Hadid says she wants real change in workplace policies MMS Staff 29 May 2025 2-min read When Bella Hadid speaks, people listen. But this time, the 27-year-old supermodel isn’t trending for a runway walk, a red-carpet look, or her signature street style. Instead, it’s a raw, radically honest statement about period pain and the right to rest that has people talking. In a recent interview with Vogue UK, Hadid dropped a line that’s already ricocheting across social media: “You’re shooting Victoria’s Secret on your period, with endo. That should be illegal.” Bella wasn’t exaggerating. She was speaking from lived experience, one that mirrors the silent struggle of millions across the world. Diagnosed with endometriosis, PCOS, and PMDD, Hadid knows firsthand what it means to perform in public while your body is shutting down in private. Period pain isn’t “just” period pain Hadid’s remark may sound dramatic to some, but anyone familiar with these conditions knows it’s anything but. Endometriosis is a chronic illness where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus causing severe pelvic pain, nausea, fatigue, and sometimes infertility. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), on the other hand, is a debilitating form of PMS marked by intense mood swings, depression, and anxiety in the lead-up to menstruation. Add PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which can disrupt hormone levels and cause irregular cycles, and what you get is a physically and emotionally exhausting reality that millions of menstruators live with, mostly in silence. Hadid recalled being just 17 or 18 when she was thrown into the high-stakes world of fashion, often expected to perform on days when she could barely stand. “We should literally ban women working during the week of their period. And the week before, to be honest,” she said. While the word “ban” may feel too stark, the sentiment points to something deeper: people shouldn’t have to choose between their health and their job. Paid menstrual leave should be a choice, a right, and never a reason for shame. Real stories, real struggles When Much Much Spectrum shared Bella’s statement on Instagram, the comments section lit up, not with hot takes, but with lived experiences: I have PMDD. The last two weeks (week 3 and 4) of my cycle are HELL. I usually can’t get out of bed for a week besides to eat and use the bathroom. Leave during this time of my cycle would have saved me from getting fired from SO MANY JOBS. — @rainbow_robbins Yes to the choice of taking paid leave!!! — @a.rosemedia Speaking as a hard-working woman who’s ended up in the ER multiple times due to menstrual pain, it should be a right. At least the right not to hear supervisors say: ‘If you need a day off to menstruate in peace, maybe this isn’t the place for you'. — @angelic_stargaze These aren’t rare stories, they’re just rarely spoken out loud. Period leave isn’t a perk. It’s policy. Globally, menstrual leave is slowly gaining ground, with countries like Spain, Indonesia, Japan, and Zambia offering various models. But in most places, including India, it remains a taboo subject. Even when policies exist, they’re underused due to stigma, internalized guilt, or outright workplace hostility. Bella’s comment, part frustration, part advocacy, shines a spotlight on an uncomfortable truth: we still live in a world where menstruation is treated like a personal inconvenience instead of a public health issue. What if instead of minimizing pain, workplaces acknowledged it? What if people didn’t have to fight to be believed? Not just a women's issue, a workplace issue Bella Hadid’s words aren’t about banning work. They’re about rethinking what it means to work with dignity. For those living with chronic menstrual conditions, rest isn’t indulgence, it’s survival. And menstrual leave is freedom from shame. Paid leave won’t fix the systemic gaps overnight. But it’s a starting point. A way to say: your pain is real, your health matters, and no one should have to suffer in silence to keep a job. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Celebrating individuality and self-acceptance < Back Me As Me: Celebrating Self Acceptance Celebrating individuality and self-acceptance The "Me As Me" campaign was developed to address the pervasive marginalization and underrepresentation of neurodivergent and disabled individuals in media, workplaces, and society at large. The focus was on elevating voices from the South Asian context, particularly India, to showcase our lived experiences and challenging societal perceptions. The topics of navigating puberty, self-identity, dating, and entrepreneurship were chosen due to their critical importance in the lives of young neurodivergent and disabled individuals, areas often fraught with unique challenges and societal stigma. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiTp-nehzdA Relevant data & insights: Women with disabilities hold only 2.3% of decision-making positions globally Disabled women face a significantly higher risk of violence compared to non-disabled women. Autistic teenagers experience heightened sensory sensitivities and social interaction difficulties, increasing the risk of bullying. ADHD teenagers struggle with impulse control and emotional regulation during puberty. Individuals with autism find romantic relationships challenging due to difficulties with social cues and communication. Autistic women often engage in masking behaviors , leading to increased stress and mental health issues. Disabled entrepreneurs face barriers such as limited access to funding and societal stigma , which hinder business growth. Our approach: We aimed to provide an authentic platform for neurodivergent and disabled individuals to share their stories, emphasizing their strengths, challenges, and aspirations. The campaign was structured to create a multi-format, cross-platform narrative that would engage a diverse audience and foster greater understanding and empathy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peMN_JW1ztg Campaign objective & goals: To raise awareness about the challenges faced by neurodivergent and disabled individuals. Promote better support systems for disabled and neurodivergent entrepreneurs Increase representation of neurodivergent individuals in media and workplaces. Educate parents, teachers, and caregivers on the needs of neurodivergent youth during puberty. Challenges: Ensuring authentic representation of diverse experiences. Addressing societal stigma and misconceptions. Reaching and engaging a wide, diverse audience. Solutions devised: Target audience: young adults on the neurodiversity spectrum or identifying as neurodivergent, caregivers, educators, parents, caregivers, business leaders, investors, and the general public. Narrative: centered around lived experiences, the narrative was designed to be both educational and empathetic. Topicality: focused on timely and relevant issues such as identity, mental health, friendships, love, dating, and entrepreneurship, and released around Neurodiversity Celebration Week. Deliverables: Short documentary films x 2: 'Unmasking Autism' and 'Entrepreneurs with Autism, ADHD & Down Syndrome'. Ancillary assets: 5+ x reels 10+ x carousel posts 15+ x stories Platforms: YouTube: For broad reach and accessibility. LinkedIn: Targeting professionals and business leaders. Instagram & Facebook: Engaging a wider, younger audience through visual storytelling. Length: The campaign ran for over 3 months, with continuous engagement and content updates to maintain traction and visibility. Impact: Views: 500,000+ Reach: 1 million+ across social platforms. Engagement: 1k+ shares , 500+ comments highlighting empathy and understanding. Reception: Overwhelmingly positive, praised for authentic portrayals and sensitivity. Media & Ancillary Extensions: “Unmasking Autism” was screened at the Pride Filmtage Bremen Film Festival in Germany, 2023. The campaign was featured in a half-page article in the popular Mumbai tabloid Mid-Day. Learnings: The campaign successfully met its objectives of raising awareness and fostering empathy among its intended audience. Challenges were effectively addressed through thoughtful storytelling and strategic dissemination of multi-format content. Continuous engagement and authentic representation were key to the campaign’s success. Way forward: Expanding the campaign to include more stories and voices from the neurodivergent and disabled communities. Developing additional educational resources for parents, educators, and employers. Continuing to foster partnerships with organizations to support inclusive practices and policies. Exploring new platforms and media formats to reach an even broader audience. By creating a platform for neurodivergent and disabled individuals to share their stories, the 'Me As Me' campaign has taken a significant step towards inclusivity and representation. The continued efforts will aim to build on this foundation, driving further change and awareness. WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

Much Much Spectrum is a Mumbai-based media production company and social impact agency. We specialize in turning brand visions into engaging conversations and impactful campaigns. We have collaborated with giants like Meta, Mahindra, Google, and Netflix to create content that resonates deeply. About us Based in Mumbai, Much Much Media is a boutique media production company and social impact agency with a community of over 50,000 people. We help brands, non-profits, and agencies make important conversations interesting while ensuring their vision and goals are not only met, but resonate deeply with audiences. Why ‘Much Much?’ In colloquial Hindi, "much much" means chatter. We chose the name Much Much Media to embody our mission of making important conversations engaging and enjoyable through our content and media. Based in Mumbai, Much Much Media is a boutique media production company that transforms briefs from brands and agencies into highly loved and binge-worthy social media content, films, campaigns, ads, and more. Our journey Much Much Spectrum was launched three years after Much Much Media as our original content division, aimed at bringing to light the stories of underrepresented communities that are often missing from mainstream media. This initiative was inspired by our founders' discovery of their own neurodivergence, establishing us as India’s first neurodivergent-led media company. Our objective is to bridge the gap in affirming narratives, particularly around subjects like health, disability, and mental health, which have been historically stigmatized in India. These topics are frequently portrayed through lenses of pity, sympathy, or excessive inspiration, often resulting in unaffirmative portrayals. In the last two years, Much Much Spectrum has built a global community of over 50,000 people. We have partnered with various brands and non-profits to tell impactful stories through our platform and community. 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 INCEPTION AS AN AGENCY Launched Much Much Media as a dynamic marketing communications agency. SIGNIFICANT COLLABORATIONS Collaborated with industry giants Meta and Mahindra (Jawa Motorcycles), setting a strong foundation. EXPANDING HORIZONS Delivered bespoke projects for prominent brands including Google, Netflix, Coca-Cola Foundation, HSBC, and United Way Mumbai. INNOVATION AND EXPANSION Founded Much Much Spectrum to co-create original content focusing on health, neurodiversity, and other pivotal social issues. IMPACTFUL CAMPAIGNS Ran four nationwide social impact campaigns, including a significant initiative for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. GROWTH AND COLLABORATION MILESTONES Partnered with the Government of India to raise awareness about disabilities. Our global community reached a robust 50,000 members. Launched the Much Much Spectrum website, enhancing our digital presence and engagement. Our mission At Much Much Spectrum, we focus on creating impactful content and strategies that resonate with diverse cultural contexts while being globally acknowledged. We empower communities and foster collaborations among a wide range of stakeholders in the social impact arena. Our mission is to prioritize lived experiences, community wisdom, and inclusive models in social storytelling. We aim to establish a practice that reflects local realities, democratizes knowledge, centre stages community insights, and integrates research and data with personal narratives. Through compelling content, we strive to engage a broader audience, making important conversations both accessible and captivating. Our values Inclusive Collaborative Ethical Reliable Our founders Aditi Gangrade Chief Creative Officer - Much Much Media Aditi Gangrade is a Gen-Z entrepreneur and filmmaker, renowned for her pioneering work in promoting neurodiversity and disability representation in the media industry. As someone who identifies as Autistic and ADHD, and also experiences PMDD, Aditi co-founded the innovative Mumbai-based studio, Much Much Spectrum, alongside her equally talented neurodivergent partner, Aalap Deboor. This inclusive content, insights, and consultation studio has made a significant impact by establishing a global community of 50,000 individuals focused on mental health, disability, neurodiversity, and gender. Much Much Spectrum, under Aditi's visionary leadership, aims to build India's largest repository of lived experiences through a rich tapestry of digital content and films. Aditi's passion for intersectional storytelling and her commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in media has been a driving force behind her work. Her directorial prowess was recently showcased in the film 'Unmasking Autism,' which was screened at the prestigious Pride Filmtage Bremen Film Festival in Germany. Before venturing into entrepreneurship, Aditi worked as a creative producer and director. The inception of Much Much Spectrum, an extension of her media company Much Much Media, was motivated by the personal revelation of neurodivergence she shared with her partner. Much Much Spectrum collaborates with a diverse range of entities including non-profits, brands, corporate firms, and government agencies, striving to actualize disability inclusion. Apart from spearheading all creative and editorial efforts at Much Much Media, Aditi now also takes time out to coach young neurodivergent people starting their careers, as well as consult parents and caregivers on neurodiversity. To book a session with her, click here . Aalap Deboor Chief Executive Officer - Much Much Media Aalap is a writer-director-producer with 15 years in the entertainment industry. After a career in journalism working with Hindustan Times, followed by TV programming & production with MTV & Vh1 (where Aalap produced the shows Coke Studio & Unplugged and led Vh1 India's digital media efforts), and then in digital content & strategy as Head of Music for One Digital Entertainment - Asia's largest creator network - he started Much Much Media, a content & research studio. Aalap has directed and produced 100+ brand campaigns, and developed & successfully implemented data-driven content strategies for 50+ Bollywood music artists, building numerous digital channels and IPs from the ground up, including JioSaavn's Hip Hop Highway - India's first hip hop podcast - and MTV Roots, India's first indie music show. He has directed talent such as AR Rahman, Raftaar, Armaan Malik and Prajakta Koli, and led production on social campaigns, shows, ads and music videos for 50+ global brands including Vodafone, Tinder, Diageo and Nokia, featuring personalities ranging all the way from Shah Rukh Khan and Bill Gates to Russell Peters and Bhuvan Bam, netting over 250m+ views. Our advisors Rahul Jindal Director - Google, India Currently Global Director of Operations & Practices at Google, and an IIT-A alum, Rahul brings close to 20 years of rich experience in management across industries, with global and local roles at such companies as Infosys, CPA Global and Evalueserve. Rahul has been an active part of the disability and neurodiversity discourse. He's a former Executive Sponsor of Google's Disability Alliance, and former head of Google's Employee Resource Group in India. He has been active in raising awareness about disabilities, employing people with disabilities in high-tech & digital marketing roles, and spearheading active efforts in Assistive Tech.

Paramjeet Bisht of Uttarakhand practised his race walking only past 9 pm to avoid judgemental onlookers < Back News Youth ridiculed for ‘funny walking style’ represents India at Paris '24 Paramjeet Bisht of Uttarakhand practised his race walking only past 9 pm to avoid judgemental onlookers MMS Staff 3 Aug 2024 1-min read A 23-year-old resident of Uttarakhand - teased by the residents of his village for his ‘funny’ gait - represented India yesterday in the men’s final of the 20-kilometre walk at Paris Olympics 2024. On Thursday, Paramjeet Singh Bisht reportedly finished 37th in the 20 km men’s final where he took part alongside two other Indians - Vikash Singh and Akshdeep Singh. A native of Khalla village in Chamoli district Uttarakhand, Bisht used the roads of his village to practise for the event when they were secluded past 9 pm every day. He wanted to avoid the gaze of the other villagers, who ridiculed him for his ‘funny walking style,’ Bisht has said . “They would often laugh at me... as they were not aware it’s a globally recognised sport.” While Bisht clocked 1 hour, 23 minutes and 48 seconds in the finals, Singh crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 22 minutes and 36 seconds, and Akshdeep pulled out of the race around the 6-kilometre mark. Bisht presently holds the national record for the under-17 and under-19 men’s 5-kilometre walk events. In 2022, he joined the Indian Navy as a senior secondary recruit. “It was a great journey for me,” Bisht simply wrote on his Instagram after the race. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

After 14 years, India’s Census is finally catching up with its disabled population < Back Disability, Health, News Why India’s 2026 Census could be a turning point for disability rights After 14 years, India’s Census is finally catching up with its disabled population MMS Staff 9 Jun 2025 4-min read In April 2026, India will conduct its long-overdue national Census — 14 years after the last one. And for the first time ever, the Census will recognise all 21 categories of disabilities listed under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016. A history of invisibility When the last Census was held in 2011, the government only acknowledged 8 types of disabilities. As a result, millions of disabled people across India were effectively excluded from the official record. And when you're not counted, you’re not planned for. India has consistently maintained that only 2.2% of its population is disabled. But global estimates by the WHO and UN agencies suggest that closer to 16% of the world’s population lives with a disability. The gap is massive. And it’s not just statistical — it's political, social, and deeply personal. Why is our official number so low? The reasons are many: – A limited definition of disability – Social stigma and fear of disclosure – Lack of awareness around invisible and intellectual disabilities – The sheer inaccessibility of self-reporting tools, especially in rural areas But the biggest reason? We haven’t designed systems that actually want to know the truth. Why data matters Over the last four years, we – Aditi & Aalap – have travelled across the country attending disability conclaves, public policy events, the Purple Fest in Goa, and countless inclusion panels. At nearly every event, one word echoes louder than the rest: data. Advocates, government officials, and corporate partners all agree — without accurate data, there can be no meaningful development. When a community isn’t counted, it becomes easier to exclude them from policies, budgets, infrastructure, and everything else that defines full citizenship. The private sector knows this well. Corporations spend billions collecting data to determine what to make, how much to make, where to sell it, and to whom. When that kind of basic insight is missing for millions of disabled people in India, how can anything — access, employment schemes, therapy programs, public toilets — ever be built at scale? Right now, the entire ecosystem runs on donations and goodwill. While that generosity deserves recognition, it’s simply not enough to sustain livelihoods for a population this size. What we need is structured, state-supported, and scalable change — and that begins with knowing who we’re building for. What’s changing in 2026 Here’s what’s new and significant about the 2026 Census: All 21 disabilities listed under the RPwD Act will be officially recognised Indian Sign Language (ISL) will be used as an official mode of communication during the Census Census Question No. 9 has been updated to be more inclusive of varied disabilities Government and NGO-led awareness drives will focus on increasing self-reporting and community-level participation It still won’t be perfect. Many disabilities like Bipolar disorder, ADHD, endometriosis, Fibromyalgia, Long COVID, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/ CFS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Lupus/ Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), among others remain outside the RPwD Act. And invisible disabilities continue to be misunderstood. But it’s a start — a start that means today’s children with disabilities won’t have to grow up hearing the dehumanising ‘R-word’. Until 2016, India’s official language for classifying intellectual disabilities included the term “mental retardation.” This language wasn’t just outdated — it was deeply hurtful, rooted in colonial and medicalised frameworks that stripped people of dignity and personhood. The RPwD Act of 2016 finally replaced this with more respectful and rights-based terminology: “intellectual disability” and “specific learning disabilities.” This change wasn’t just symbolic. It set a new tone for how institutions — schools, hospitals, census departments — describe and relate to disabled people. What this means for the next generation is powerful: children and families will no longer have to see that slur stamped on their identity papers, school records, or government forms. They won’t have to carry the burden of a word that for decades has been used to insult, isolate, and diminish. More than numbers At the end of the day, this is about people. It’s about the right to be seen and heard in the story of a nation. Because how do you plan for a country when you don’t even know who lives in it? The 2026 Census is our chance to change that. It’s an opportunity to give India’s disabled population something they’ve long been denied — not just visibility, but value. Once we have the numbers, the picture will become harder to ignore. Budgets can be argued for. Laws can be passed. Cities can be designed. Lives can be improved. Data is not the end goal. But it’s where the work begins. And it’s high time India got to work. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Four Indian cricketers with visual impairment will travel to Boston July 24 to train the US Blind Cricket team < Back Disability, News, Media Blind men in blue to fly to US to impart training to counterparts Four Indian cricketers with visual impairment will travel to Boston July 24 to train the US Blind Cricket team MMS Staff 18 Jul 2024 1-min read Four cricketers with visual impairment will fly to the US to train their US counterparts. Sukharam Majhi and Nakula Badanayak from Koraput, Debraj Behera from Brahmapur, and Pankaj Bhue from Bargarh - all cities in Odisha - will fly out to Boston from New Delhi July 24. The team will stay in the US for around 55 days, training the US blind cricket team. The Indian blind cricket team, currently the reigning world champions in the T20 format of the game, have previously won three consecutive T20 world cups in 2012, 2017 and 2022, as well as the Asia Cup in 2016. Run by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), which is run by the World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC), the team participates in all T20 and One Day International matches. CABI - an initiative of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled - is the apex body governing, organising and developing cricket for the blind in India. It has 30 state/ UT boards and over 25,000 players affiliated at various domestic level tournaments within India. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Latest additions to the brand’s Fashionistas line include a blind Barbie and a black Barbie with Down Syndrome < Back Disability, News Mattel releases first-ever blind Barbie Latest additions to the brand’s Fashionistas line include a blind Barbie and a black Barbie with Down Syndrome MMS Staff 27 Jul 2024 2-min read Barbie by Mattel, known for its inclusive line of products, has added two new dolls to their ever-expanding repertoire. The first is a blind Barbie complete with a satiny blouse, textured ruffle skirt, a cane with a marshmallow tip, and functional sunglasses. The doll comes in accessible packaging with ‘Barbie’ written in Braille. Reportedly Mattel collaborated with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) both to make sure the doll was accessible and to ensure the depiction of low visibility and blindness was on point. The release marks the last few days of July, celebrated globally as Disability Pride Month. “As we wrap up Disability Pride month, we believe this is an excellent way to make children worldwide feel included, regardless of their abilities,” said Tony Stephens of the AFB. Eric Bridges, CEO of the AFB, said blind people have historically been misrepresented in the media, so he hopes this will educate people about blindness and vision impairment. In early 2020, the company had released its most diverse line yet , called the Barbie Fashionistas, featuring a doll with vitiligo, another with no hair, and yet another with dark skin and a prosthetic limb. These dolls were released with the intent of shining a light on conditions such as vitiligo and alopecia, as well as limb difference. Then, in 2023, Mattel collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society and released the first-ever Barbie with Down Syndrome. What’s worthy of mention is the brand has been including people with lived experience of all these conditions in the production of the dolls that represent them. “Our latest additions to the Barbie Fashionista line are part of our continued effort to represent global diversity and inclusivity in the fashion doll aisle and reflect the world children experience today, encouraging empathy through play,” said Krista Berger, the senior vice president of Barbie, in a press release. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXoZDDKrRes Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How global communities thrive together - the benefits of play, obstacles, and its future < Back Parenting, Education, Health Why play is important: International Day of Play 2024 How global communities thrive together - the benefits of play, obstacles, and its future MMS Staff 11 Jun 2024 7-min read India has a popular saying: ‘ Padhoge likhoge banoge nawab, kheloge kudoge banoge kharab.' Roughly translated, it means: “Study and you’ll become a respectable person. Play and you'll fail in life." Which - tbh - couldn't be further from the truth. The first-ever International Day of Play is going to be observed on 11 June 2024, marking a significant milestone in efforts to preserve, promote, and prioritise play so that all people, especially children, can reap its lifelong rewards. Play transcends language, culture, and age. It acts as a catalyst for development and well-being. It is also an essential part of a child’s development, and is particularly important in early childhood when children are growing and learning most rapidly. According to this UNICEF report , playing with children is a fundamental aspect of parenting. Simple, playful interactions with adults help infants develop sturdy brain architecture, the foundations of lifelong health, and the building blocks of resilience. “We are still not good enough at accommodating or acknowledging the child that thinks creatively. But, we are super good at rewarding the academically strong child,” a parent in Denmark told LEGO . The importance of play Beyond physical well-being, outdoor play stimulates cognitive, social and emotional growth. Being in nature helps children explore, experiment and develop problem-solving skills. The sensory experiences of the natural world enhance creativity and imagination, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity and contributing to overall development and well-being. Long term studies have shown that access to early play experiences boosts life outcomes substantially - a 42% raise in yearly earnings, 44% increase in high school graduations, and 17% increase in bachelor degrees, as per the The Case for Play report by the Playground Ideas. Play across different cultures Cultural traditions shape unique play experiences worldwide. For instance, Mancala, a game played in Africa, involves counting and strategy, teaching kids mathematical and critical thinking skills. Children in Italy, on the other hand, play Strega Comanda Color, which enhances language and social interaction skills. The need for inclusive play Research confirms that for children with disabilities too, play is an important way in which they make friends (Jeanes and Maggie, 2012). For many of these children in India, their home - or schools - are the only environments for play. However, accessibility is a concern. There are very few parks and playgrounds where children with disabilities can be found playing. Most schools and community play spaces (parks and public playgrounds) are often designed from the perspective of those without disabilities. Inaccessible structures, lack of trained staff to oversee the play, absence of allocation of free play time for children, resistance from children themselves, and substitution of therapy sessions in place of play are some of the common challenges in special schools that render almost no access to play spaces for children with disability, as per Play for All by Azim Premji University . The impact of play deficit on children’s health A comprehensive survey covering 85 cities across India, and covering 1.15 lakh children, revealed that 40% children do not maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI). The situation is more dire in India's major metros — New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Pune — where children's health indicators are poorer compared to those from smaller towns and rural areas. The lack of physical play areas is directly impacting children's physical health. Anxiety and depression among school-aged children and teens in the United States are at an all-time high. In 2021, child and adolescent mental health was declared a national emergency. Although a variety of causes are thought to contribute to this decline in mental health, a new study in Science Daily by three prominent researchers specialising in child development points to a decline over decades in opportunities for children and teens to play, roam and engage in activities independent of direct oversight and control by adults. Impact of technology on play In the US, although 71% of parents played outside as a child, only 21% of their children play outside today. Technology is everywhere, and kids spend a lot of time on their cellphones, tablets and other electronic devices, as per Play World . Nearly 40% of India's schools have no playground. An Indian study says that over the past few decades, there has been a significant decline in children’s outdoor play. Several factors have contributed to this shift including the rise of technology, increased academic pressure, safety concerns and COVID-19. The allure of digital entertainment has drawn children indoors and to screens. Additionally, schools have increased academic demands, leaving children with limited free time for unstructured outdoor play. “Technology today allows children to still be creative and scientifically knowledgeable but learn in a fun way,” says a UK parent, to LEGO . Learning through play 83% of children say they learn better when it feels like play. 93% of parents think play should be used as a tool for child development and learning in schools. As per the Lego Play Well Report of 2018 , play is its own reward. We do it because it feels good. The urge to play is nature’s way of helping us make sense of the world and our place in it. Through play we learn how our minds and bodies work and discover how others think and feel. Through play we come to know what it means to belong, to be loved and feel happiness. Building a community through play Community play projects in India often focus on revitalising underused or neglected urban areas, turning them into safe and accessible play spaces. These projects are particularly vital in densely populated cities where children's play areas are scarce. Some notable initiatives working towards enhancing play opportunities: Bachpan Manao, Badhte Jao : Spearheaded by the EkStep Foundation , this initiative focuses on maximising the early childhood period (0 - 8 years) across India. For International Day of Play, they launched the #HourOfFreePlay challenge in collaboration with UNICEF, advocating for every child's right to play. While play should be part of children's lives every day, the call to action on June 11th is to include adults by encouraging them to pause whatever they’re doing from 5 pm to 6 pm and engage in an Hour of Free play (meaning activities led by children). Anthill Creations: Based in Bengaluru, this non-profit organisation builds safe, sustainable, and inclusive playgrounds using upcycled materials like tyres and oil drums. To date, Anthill Creations has constructed about 380 playgrounds across 22 states, demonstrating a scalable model of low-cost, high-impact community engagement. Kilikili: Another commendable effort is by Kilikili , an NGO based in Bengaluru, which aims at developing inclusive public play spaces in Bengaluru that would enable children with disabilities to secure their right to play alongside children without disabilities. Kilikili brings together multiple stakeholders – the local municipal corporation and parents, volunteers, disability rights organisations, citizen’s groups, resident’s associations, special and regular schools. Jabalpur’s child-focused urban planning: The city of Jabalpur is pioneering a new approach in urban planning with a focus on children’s needs. The city's officials are working on a play “master plan" that aims to ensure that every child has access to play opportunities within 500 metres of their home. This initiative is part of the broader “Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge” under the Smart Cities Mission, which aims to create child-friendly neighbourhoods in Indian cities. PepsiCo India's Gatorade 'Turf Finder': In collaboration with Leo Burnett India, Gatorade is set to launch Turf Finder , a platform designed to help people find available playing spaces in India’s crowded metropolitan areas. Starting in Mumbai and expanding to other major cities like Bengaluru, the platform addresses the acute shortage of recreational spaces in urban settings. The role of parents and guardians in play Parents and guardians are pivotal in guiding play. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2007) revealed that children whose parents actively engage in their play activities show improved language skills and social development. Challenges to play Despite its benefits, access to play is not universal. Urbanisation and socioeconomic factors often limit play opportunities. The Global Play Alliance (2022) states that 30% of urban children worldwide lack access to safe play spaces. India's vast diversity and rapidly growing urban areas present challenges in ensuring adequate play spaces for children. Government surveys highlight a concerning deficit with 40% of schools across the country lacking a playground, a figure that rises dramatically in states like Bihar and Odisha, where the absence of playgrounds affects 65% and 70% of schools, respectively. This lack of facilities is contributing to significant health issues among children. Future of play As per LEGO , on a societal scale economies are set to lose out on big social and economic benefits if early childhood development and play is not prioritised. A recent report by The Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood estimated that investing in early childhood in the UK could add up to £45.5 billion (~INR 4 lakh crore) to the national economy each year. Simply put, playing is natural, healthy and part of being human - but it is also fundamental to personal and societal progress. This has long been recognised by the international community. Indeed, the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, which almost all countries in the world have signed, recognises the right to play. And earlier this year, in a nod to the importance of this universally human activity, the UN General Assembly adopted an International Day of Play. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The journey of two siblings navigating the world with mutual respect and a shared perspective < Back Neurodiversity Siblings who "get it": The neurodivergent brother-sister bond The journey of two siblings navigating the world with mutual respect and a shared perspective Aditi Gangrade 17 Aug 2024 4-min read As someone who’s autistic and ADHD, I’ve always felt that the bond I share with my younger brother, who also has ADHD, is different from anything else in my life. Growing up neurodivergent in a world that often doesn’t understand you can be incredibly isolating, but having a sibling who “gets it” changes everything. It took us many years to understand each other as both of us grew up as undiagnosed neurodivergents, only to realise in our adulthood that we’re neurodivergent. After many years of fights, love, and care, our relationship is now built on a deep understanding of each other’s needs, struggles, and joys. Unspoken understanding of sensory needs One of the things my brother and I instinctively understand about each other is our sensory needs. We don’t need to explain to each other why certain lights are too bright or why certain textures are unbearable — we just know. I remember countless times when he’d walk into a room and immediately turn down the volume on the TV because he could tell I was getting overwhelmed. He’d ask my parents to get soft socks for me as the texture of most socks hurt me. These small, unspoken gestures are a huge part of what makes our relationship special. We’ve learned to create a comfortable environment for each other without even thinking about it. Navigating social expectations together Social situations have always been challenging for both of us. I’ve often felt out of place, not understanding social cues or the unwritten rules everyone else seemed to know. But having my brother by my side made these situations easier to handle. We’ve developed our own way of communicating when we’re in public, with little signals that say, “I need a break” or “Let’s get out of here.” It’s like having a partner in a world that sometimes feels like it’s speaking a different language. The comfort of predictability Routine has always been my safe space, and I know my brother feels the same. We both find comfort in the predictable rhythms of our daily lives. Whether it was our morning chai ritual or the way we always had movie afternoons on chill days, where we binge-watched our favourite shows. These routines ground us. They’re our way of creating a world that feels safe and manageable. It’s something we’ve always done for each other, even when the rest of the world feels chaotic. Mutual respect for boundaries Growing up, we both learned the importance of respecting each other’s boundaries. I’ve always needed my alone time to recharge, and so has he. We never took it personally when one of us needed to retreat to our room after a long day — it was just understood. This respect for boundaries has been a cornerstone of our relationship, allowing us to support each other without overwhelming each other. It’s a form of love that’s based on deep understanding and acceptance. Coping mechanisms and strategies Over the years, my brother and I have developed our own set of coping mechanisms to manage our neurodivergence. From stimming to using specific apps that help us stay organised, we’ve always shared what works for us. I remember when he introduced me to a new time management app that completely changed the way I handle my daily tasks. These strategies are more than just tools — they’re a way of saying, “I understand what you’re going through, and I’m here to help.” Handling meltdowns with empathy Meltdowns are a part of our lives, and having a sibling who truly understands what that feels like has been invaluable. When I’m on the brink of a meltdown, my brother knows exactly what to do — whether it’s giving me space or just sitting quietly with me until I’m ready to talk. I do the same for him. There’s no judgement, no impatience — just empathy. We’ve been through it enough times to know that sometimes the best thing you can do is just be there for each other. The joy of special interests One of the most joyful aspects of our relationship is the way we connect over our special interests. Whether it’s long sessions playing our favourite video games or a marathon discussion about a topic like our favourite snacks, these shared passions bring us closer. It’s about celebrating the intensity and enthusiasm that comes with our neurodivergence. In these moments, we see each other’s true selves, and there’s nothing more affirming than that. Experiencing the world differently, together The world can be overwhelming, confusing, and even hostile for neurodivergent people. But my brother and I experience it together, and that makes all the difference. We might perceive things differently from others, but we share that experience with each other. It’s like having someone who speaks your language in a foreign land. We just “get” each other in a way that’s hard to put into words, but it’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything. Being neurodivergent siblings has shaped the way my brother and I relate to each other and the world. For us, it’s not just about being siblings — it’s about being allies, friends, and each other’s greatest champions in a world that doesn’t always understand us. We truly are siblings who get it. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS