Durga Puja is at the heart of Kolkata—it’s art, culture, emotion, and celebration all rolled into one. But for many neurodivergent individuals and their families, the crowds, noise, and unpredictability can make participating overwhelming rather than joyful.

At the India Autism Center (IAC), we believe this needs to change. So in 2025, in collaboration with MassArt, we curated an Autism-Friendly Puja Parikrama—a thoughtfully designed Durga Puja experience that made space for comfort, dignity, and inclusion.

Who the Event Was For

This initiative was created especially for neurodivergent individuals and their families. Over 200 autistic students and parents participated, along with families from partner organisations such as Garden Reach Rehabilitation Institute and Amrit Somani Memorial Centre (ASMC).

Our goal was simple yet powerful: to ensure that everyone could be part of one of Kolkata’s most cherished traditions—without anxiety or sensory overload.

What We Did

We curated a route that included spacious, thoughtfully selected pandals such as Beliaghata and Tala Prattoy—spaces that allowed participants to enjoy the artistry of Durga Puja at their own pace. The experience was calm, predictable, and deeply supportive.

What Made It Autism-Friendly

We designed every detail keeping neurodivergent needs at the centre:

• Structured schedules and clear routes to reduce uncertainty
• Low-sensory environments with moderated sound and visuals
• On-ground support from trained, empathetic volunteers
• A judgement-free space where families felt understood and welcomed

This approach transformed what is often an overwhelming outing into a joyful, shared family experience.

Why We Organised This

At IAC, inclusion is not an add-on—it’s a responsibility. We organised the Autism-Friendly Puja Parikrama because cultural participation should never be a privilege. Festivals are about belonging, and true belonging only happens when everyone can participate meaningfully.

The Impact

For many families, this was the first time Durga Puja felt accessible. Parents shared how their children could finally engage with the colours, creativity, and spirit of the festival—without distress. What could have been an anxious day became a memory filled with ease, joy, and connection.

Beyond the event itself, the Parikrama set an important example. It showed that with intention and empathy, large-scale cultural celebrations can be inclusive. It also contributed to a growing citywide movement towards accessibility—alongside efforts like ramps, resting zones, and guided experiences.

Looking Ahead

The success of the Autism-Friendly Puja Parikrama reaffirmed what we strongly believe: when we design with empathy, everyone benefits. Durga Puja becomes richer, communities become kinder, and celebrations truly belong to all.

At the India Autism Center, we remain committed to building experiences that centre dignity, inclusion, and joy—during festivals and beyond.

We have organised more Event. Have a look!