IAC Bhoomi Puja Event

Bhoomi Puja is a Hindu ritual performed to honour and seek blessings from Mother Earth (Bhoomi Devi) before constructing on the land. We, at IAC are delighted to have recently performed the Bhoomi Puja for Phase 1 of our Dream Project.

Phase 1 spans approximately 2.5 lakh square feet and comprises- The Administrative Block, the OPD & Research Block, Learning Block, Music Block, Recreational Block, Student Housing and Parent Housing (one building each).

The Bhoomi Puja signified the team’s respect for the land and symbolised their dedication to the cause. To create one of the best autism centres in the world.

Architecture, of course, is the manipulation of the spatial environment to fit the needs of its users. While creating a safe space for individuals on the spectrum, the use of elements is key. Textures, colours, patterns, acoustics, etc, are all sensory elements that play a huge role in the daily life of people with ASD. We have had the privilege of having some of the best in the business working with us. Our team of architects and builders includes GEO Piling Solutions, Civil Core and Shell, S M Nirman Pvt. Ltd., and SMS Enterprise.

We have succeeded in completing the first phase of our project, bringing together all these sensory elements in perfect harmony. Creating a space that will promote cognition and integration that is fundamental to the core of Autism Disorder.

Our Goals While Creating the IAC Campus:

• Connectivity- All accessible areas should be easily reached, entered, and/or leading to destinations.
• Vacancy- The space should offer relative autonomy and the desired scope of independence.
• Clarity- The space should be devoid of complications. Instructions, directions, and maps are put up everywhere to ensure clear communication of what the space entails.
• Privacy- Private and isolated spaces are very important. They offer boundaries and provide retreat.
• Safety- This is always our topmost concern at IAC. Any risk of injury, confusion, or any other safety hazard is diminished as much as humanly possible.
• Tranquillity- Our ambition is to make our campus an oasis of calm. So that it can have a mitigating effect on physical sensory issues that are associated with autism.

Making the IAC campus autism friendly

Our deep understanding of the behavioural characteristics of individuals with ASD, personally influences the master plan of the structure of our campus.

Their sensual and perceptual characteristics, methods of reducing anxiety and triggers and designing spaces for gross motor skills.

Our goals for the open spaces are:

• Mobility- Creating a barrier-free campus. Individuals with limited mobility can access every space by walking, or in a wheelchair. The walking spaces have been specially designed to be anti-slip. This allows the free movement of wheelchairs/motorised buggies.
  
  We have also ensured that vehicular and pedestrian movement within the campus are entirely separated. This allows for safe and secure movement within the campus. Water bodies are fenced, and the campus is gently sloped. All of these factors ensure safety and autonomous movement throughout the campus.
• Physical materials- The materials used in the physical facade of the campus are treated with natural materials of subtle shades. This has been a conscious decision, so as to not trigger sensory overload.
• Lighting- We recognise the importance of regulation of the intensity of the lighting. Though it is still in the planning stages, our campus will have low glare, or bright lighting, depending on the area of the campus.
• Spatial features- Our open spaces are specifically tailored to address the requirements of every individual on the campus. This includes creating hideout spaces for withdrawal. Also, incidental spaces for exploration. Personalised spaces that will encourage an emotional connection and a general feeling of safety and comfort.

While we have just completed the first part of Phase 1 of the entire vision, we are getting started on the second part.

Phase 1B will comprise of- The Temple, The Wall of Gratitude, Amphitheatre, Food and Retail Block, villas and general play areas.

In Phase 2 we hope to complete all our institutional blocks. The Administration Block, Learning Block, Clinic Block, Performance Arts Space, Wellness Blocks and of course, our Residential Units. These include IAC residencies, Parent Housing and two utility blocks.

Once Phase 2 is completed, we hope our dream of creating one of the world’s premier campuses for those on the spectrum, and their families, will come true.

A tranquil oasis of learning, empathy, support, and joy for every individual connected to the neurodivergent universe.

We aim to have our dream IAC campus open its doors to welcome you all by September 2026.

 Author: Shaireen Ali | Parent Coordinator