The work done in the field of autism spectrum disorder by Velvi, a Madurai-based non-governmental organisation, through its training programmes in arts, theatre, music and dance is to be made into a short film and distributed online by Our Better World, a digital storytelling initiative of the Singapore International Foundation (SIF).
Velvi is one among the three NGOs chosen from India for showcasing and one of the 256 entries from India, Singapore, Malaysia, The Philippines, Indonesia and other countries.
According to SIF, it will work on the three stories in each country with local filmmakers before distributing them globally in 2016, to help further their cause. “We believe stories have the power to inspire you to come alongside and contribute in meaningful ways,” says SIF.
Parasuram Ramamoorthi, founder of Velvi, says that application of theatre techniques in dealing with autism spectrum disorder, which is already happening globally, will get better visibility through this initiative. “We are not looking at any financial gains but are confident that the short film will make more parents aware of the methods we adopt and also more countries will follow them,” says Dr. Ramamoorthi.