Anupam Prayaas Foundation
Behind every story shared, every partnership built, every learning resource created, and every child reached is a team united by one purpose – to build a more empathetic and inclusive world.
At Anupam Prayaas Foundation, our work is driven by educators, storytellers, allied professionals, volunteers, and neurodivergent self-advocates who believe that understanding differences can transform communities. Together, they develop inclusive curriculum and training programs, foster meaningful partnerships, amplify diverse voices, and create opportunities for learning, connection, and belonging.
Meet the people who make this mission possible. To acknowledge everyone’s valuable contributions, our team members are presented in alphabetical order.
Directors
Our Directors are the heart and driving force behind our non-profit’s vision and mission. With a shared passion for creating an inclusive world, they bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and dedication to the table. Each of our founder directors is deeply committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals and promoting inclusion across all sectors of society. Their unique backgrounds, expertise, and personal experiences have shaped the foundation of our organization, ensuring that our initiatives are both impactful and meaningful.
With a blend of vision and hands-on leadership, they are constantly working to build bridges, break down barriers, and inspire positive change in the communities we serve. Guided by a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive future, our founder directors are dedicated to creating opportunities that empower individuals to thrive, celebrate diversity, and live without limits. Their leadership continues to inspire our team, partners, and supporters, fueling the collective effort to bring about a world where everyone has the chance to succeed and belong.
Hi, I am Anudeep Kandula. I am the creative director. I am a poet, co-author of Talking Fingers book, graphic designer of Talking Fingers magazine, illustrator & creator of our story books, who also happens to be a non-speaking autistic and a self advocate. I believe that true inclusion is only possible through gradual change in the mindset, an evolution, rather than a revolution. The story books are the first step in that direction. This poem shares my innermost thoughts:
My Dream World
I dream of a world where;
Humans are not labeled,
No one is disabled,
No one is excluded,
No one is looked down upon for being different,
No one is left out;
In my dream world;
Heart is more important than mind,
Because we cherish the heart,
My dream world is filled with love, peace and harmony,
Can you picturize my dream world?
Doesn’t it sound appealing?
A better version of our world?
Will you help me build this dream world?
Will you?
Hi, I am Nandini Santhanam. I have been associated with the children with Autism for the last 26 years. I am the Founder and Chairman of The Lotus Foundation, which ran a day center for people with Autism for the last 17 years. I authored and practice HEARTISM, the curriculum and way of life for people with autism and their families. I believe that the children with disabilities are leading humanity into creating a happy and free life.
Through my silent work with the children I have come to hold the space for evolution that is in process. I listen deeply to what the children are communicating and to share with the world what the children’s messages are from time to time. I shall share with whoever is ready to understand that the triad of intentions with which the children with autism are born are Joy, Love and Freedom. I also believe that the children are energetically pure deliberately choosing silence over chatter.
Hi, I am Murali Krishna. I bring over 30 years of experience in the IT industry, currently working as a IT manager in a tech firm. My professional journey has been complemented by hands-on experience in organic and sustainable farming, which has shaped my approach to problem-solving, resilience, and sustainability. As the father of a neurodivergent individual, I’ve gained a deep personal understanding of the challenges that neurodiverse individuals face, and it has sparked my passion for advocating for greater inclusion and awareness.
As a director, I’m dedicated to using my personal experiences and professional background to help create a more inclusive world. I’m driven by the belief that every individual, regardless of how they think or experience the world, deserves the opportunity to thrive. I’m excited to contribute to a cause that’s close to my heart and make a lasting impact in advancing understanding of neurodiversity and inclusion.
Hi, I am Padma Jyothi. I am the Founder & Managing director. I am a post graduate in Applied Microbiology and a double gold medallist. I love reading books & listening to music. I am a proud mom of my son, Anudeep. We are a home-schooling family and I share a deep bond with my son. I am a blogger, author, parent advocate, and an ally of the neurodiverse individuals.
I am the editor of the path breaking book – Talking Fingers Vol.2 and Talking Fingers Magazine and co-editor of Talking Fingers Vol.1 Talking Fingers books are self published and features the voices of Indian Non-Speaking autistics. They brought about a sea change in the way we perceive non-speaking autistics and the importance of AAC. Talking Fingers magazine carries forward the legacy and celebrates every step of the communication journey of an emergent communicator.
Working in this non-profit with my son and my wonderful team on a cause that is very close to my heart, has been a dream come true for me!
Outreach & Partnerships Team
Building meaningful collaborations with schools, communities, and organizations to expand APF’s reach and create opportunities for empathy and inclusion.
Hi, I am Bharathi.
I am a trained social worker, mother, and autism advocate.
I believe knowledge is power, and knowledge shared is even more powerful.
In APF, I found people just as passionate as me about gaining and sharing knowledge to bring awareness and change to how autism is viewed and understood.
Happy to be a part of APF
Hi, I am Gouri Ganti. I believe change comes through consistent collaborative efforts of like minded collective people. I am mother small business owner by profession and huge optimist by nature. Proud to be associated with APF.
Hello, I am Kabir Harish Nair from Lucknow.
I am a 20-year-old young man diagnosed with moderate autism. I strongly believe in standing up for causes that are just, compassionate, and humane.
I am currently pursuing my B.A. (Fifth Semester) with Psychology and Political Science. I aspire to become a psychologist and a writer, as writing has always been one of my greatest passions.
Like my mother, I have a deep love for animals and actively care for many Indie dogs in my neighbourhood. Through my experiences, I have come to understand that autism is not just a diagnosis – it is a unique way of experiencing and understanding the world.
I am proud to contribute to autism awareness and to work towards creating a more empathetic and inclusive society. I look forward to supporting the mission of Anupam Prayaas Foundation and doing my part to ensure that every autistic individual is respected, understood, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Hi, I am Dr. Malay Kanti Dey. I work as a scientific officer in the Department of Atomic Energy. As a parent of a non-speaking autistic individual, my journey has been deeply intertwined with the autism community. I have actively participated in various initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and understanding within society. My aim is to work towards the empowerment and acceptance of neurodiverse individuals.
Alongside my personal involvement, I am a founder member of Chinsurah Sense Society, an organization committed to supporting children and adults with autism in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. Through this role, I have worked extensively to create meaningful opportunities, build support systems and promote community inclusion.
Hi, I am Nalini Srivastava, a teacher by profession, an autism advocate, published author, poet, blogger, and a champion for the cause of autism awareness and creating empathy, and you can say I am also an animal empath. So, I am also a mother to a special needs child, that is Kabir, he is now 20 years old. And I live life as it comes, and I really found a new strength while working for the cause of autism awareness.
Hi, I am Prashanthi. First an electronic engineer by degree, then a Radar Design Engineer and Assistant Professor by Profession. All this seems to be a thing of previous birth.
After my son got diagnosed with autism, I have dedicated myself caring for him, teaching him. In the process, I did a couple of courses. I am now a Level 2 Certified RPM Provider, Avaz Certified Educator, Level 1 Certified in Oral Placement Therapy along with a certificate course in Brain Gym. I have also been an active volunteer in various NGOs and worked towards creating awareness and inclusion. Currently, I am taking RPM sessions with students from across India.
Hi all. I am Rajani Deep Kumar from Pune. I am a teacher by profession and have worked for twenty plus years in a Delhi school before shifting to Pune.
I have a 5year old grandson who is on the spectrum. To be very frank, I myself wasn’t much aware about autism till my grandson was diagnosed. I had come across a very few children during my career who had special needs, but that’s about it. After listening, reading about and seeing autistic individuals, I have started understanding their needs slowly. I would like to work towards creating autism awareness in our society and sensitise people to be empathetic towards them and understand their needs better
Curriculum & Training Team
Designing engaging learning resources and training programs that empower educators, facilitators, and students to build more inclusive environments.
Hi, I am Aarti Khurana, a seasoned educator with nearly 28 years of experience across national and international curricula, I have dedicated my career to holistic education, integrating innovative pedagogies that foster critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. With expertise in leadership, curriculum development, and faculty training, I have played key roles in academic planning and institutional growth, always striving to create meaningful learning experiences that empower students.
My journey took on a deeply personal dimension when I became a mother to Amrit, my daughter on the autism spectrum. Through my professional journey and personal experiences, I continue to advocate for a more inclusive, empathetic, and creative approach to education.
Hi, I am Lata Iyer, a Professional Special Educator, Academic Consultant and Dyslexia Therapist, currently heading ‘Reach’ which is a ‘Centre for Autism & Other Special Needs’ a place that brings new dimensions to learning. I ensure complete involvement of mother (parents) in the learning process so they can contribute actively to their child’s development. I am coordinating with most of the schools in Vadodara & nearby areas for guiding teachers & parents of Students with Autism, Specific Learning Disabilities, slow learners & children with attention deficit. I am not only Gujarat’s only Certified Dyslexia Therapist but also an Avaz Certified Instructor of the Avaz AAC App. I have been active in the field of education for more than two decades and have conducted numerous workshops for students, teachers & parents.
Hi, I am Neena Girish, an award winning school librarian turned storyteller, author, story coach, podcaster and teacher trainer. I am awareness ambassador at Spectrum The Awareness Project. I am part of the team that develops curriculum and training at Anupam Prayaas Foundation. I am also member of Kathashtakam, FEAST & Indian Kamishibai Association.
Hi, I am Padmapriya Suresh, a professional storyteller and a motivational speaker. I am an awareness ambassador at The Spectrum-Autism. I am the founder of Story Basket, a small venture using which I impart knowledge and fun through storytelling, inculcate reading habits as well as teach English. I have also authored two books “Avatar” and “Nalini” under my pen name ‘Kamali Suresh”. I hold certifications through NCERT in the areas of “Language Pedagogy” and “Curriculum Development”.
Hi, I am Dr.Triveni Goswami Vernal, a Registered Special Educator (CRR: A64010), a Psychologist and an Expressive Arts Therapy Practitioner (UNESCO-CID). I am a Avaz Certified Educator and Certified in Dyslexia Teacher Training. I am also an art educator for children with additional needs. I have a 13 year old on the Autism spectrum. I am presently working as a Consultant Special Educator at Oyster CDC, Begumpet, Hyderabad.
Hi, I am Umayal Subramaniam, a fourth generation educationist and an Early Childhood Educator with over a decade of experience and run my own play school in Thanjavur and I am also in the board of three other schools in Thanjavur. I love seeing the world through little eyes and I look forward to inspire people to give back to the society in ways that matter. I am a storyteller, blogger and a poet and have published my poetry collection as a book “Doodle with words – sketches of life”. I am also awareness Ambassador of the parent support group “Spectrum The Awareness Project “
Anupam Storytellers Team
A passionate team of trained facilitators who bring APF’s stories to life, inspiring children to understand, embrace, and celebrate differences through interactive storytelling.
Hi, I am Champa Saha, born and brought up in Delhi, have been a resident of Bangalore for the last 17 years. I am an avid lover of children, books and dogs. Since 1987, when I set out on my journey as a teacher, I used stories and theatre with children, to entertain, to teach, to explore and to learn from.
I now divide my time between reaching out to children and families as an Inclusive Practices Consultant /Counsellor and teacher of English, reading and telling stories to whoever is ready to listen and being co-conspirator in the shenanigans of my pets, Sasha, Chutki, Tiger and Coffee. In the time that remains, I can be found in theatre rehearsals or telling stories as an amateur actor and director of children’s theatre. I am a strong advocate for Disability Rights and Inclusion and have spent the last four decades volunteering and engaging in various capacities with organisations working for marginalised children.
Hi, I am Deepa Ahuja Ramani, the founder of award-winning podcast Bachpan Ke Pitare Se and Ripples, Alacritious Learning with Deepa.
With more than 20 years of experience as a language facilitator, I am also an award-winning passionate performance storyteller and author. I truly believe in the transformative power of storytelling to create an inclusive society. Through my work, I share knowledge and perspectives to spread smiles, positivity and create meaningful impact.
I am C. Mangalam Senthil, a TEDx speaker, storyteller, and storytelling coach who believes stories have the power to transform lives. Through Katha Kuteeram, I bring Indian wisdom, mythology, and lived experiences alive for audiences of all ages. I also pioneer Kolam-based emotional and mental well-being practices, using this ancient art form as a tool for reflection, resilience, and inner balance. My work inspires people to connect deeply – with stories, with themselves, and with one another.
Happppiiieee Storiesss to you!
I am Dr. Priyanka Chatterjee, popularly known as Golpodidi (the ‘Story Lady’), and I am the Pioneer of Applied Storytelling in India.
I am an Award-winning Storyteller, 3X TEDx Speaker and Mentor, Author, Psychological Counsellor, Social Journalist, Cultural Engineer, and founder of Arts4Change International. Having touched 1.5 million+ lives with 21+ years of experience across 40+ countries, I blend design thinking, applied theatre, and storytelling to spark dialogue and drive personal, organisational, and social transformation. An engineer-turned-MBA gold medallist and alumna of the International School of Storytelling (England), my work spans boardrooms, classrooms, grassroots communities, and global arts platforms.
As a REX Karmaveer Chakra awardee, I believe: “Change your story. Change your life.”
Hi, I am Priyanka Kar, a seasoned Behavioural Trainer, Corporate Coach, and Storytelling Practitioner with over 20 years of cross-functional expertise across the ITES, BPO, Education, Banking, Hospitality, Automotive sectors and more.
By integrating the strategic communication frameworks of IIM Calcutta with the advanced Organizational Behaviour and Emotional Intelligence insights from IITs (Guwahati and Kharagpur), I move beyond traditional training. I replace rigid operational patterns with powerful, narrative-driven results. Whether guiding a quiet manager toward leadership or turning a stressed team into a cohesive unit, my work creates measurable cultural shifts. I don’t just train professionals; I empower them to connect, influence, and lead with clarity.
No one is the same and that is your superpower.
I am Priyanka Sagar Maheshwari, a performance storyteller, improv specialist, and communication coach. As a narrative design thinker, I use stories, theatre, and creative expression to create safe, inclusive spaces where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. I believe that every unique mind has a story worth sharing and I strive to nurture confidence, connection, and acceptance through meaningful experiences.
Hi, I am Ramya Mahathi Barry.
I am a Pediatric Hearing, Feeding and Communication specialist
I am founder of Nurture Babies, Secunderabad
Hi, I am Rohini Jayanti, a storyteller, writer, certified expressive arts practitioner, and mindfulness and happiness coach. I am the founder of ‘Katha Karavan’, where I use storytelling, creative writing, and expressive arts to nurture imagination, empathy, and emotional well-being in children and adults. Through ‘Katha Shaala’, I create safe spaces for children in government schools and NGOs to express themselves creatively and build emotional resilience. My immersive storytelling blends music, rhythm, props, and puppets. I am the author of ‘Nature Speaks: Expressive Arts in the Wild’, and my poems and stories have been published in international anthologies and magazines.
Hello, I am Sharanya Sriram. I spent a decade as a banker before discovering my true passion in early childhood education, where I have dedicated myself for over ten years. I am also a Certified Instructor for children with special needs, committed to fostering inclusive and nurturing learning environments.
Recently, I added “author” to my many roles with the publication of my book, Dzo and Dhonu.
My greatest joy comes from spending time with children – playing, reading, sharing stories, or simply engaging in heartfelt conversations that inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Hello, I am Vaishali Kulkarni, a Storyteller, Art Based Therapy Practitioner and Teacher capacity builder based out of Pune. With over 20 years experience, my passion lies in weaving stories for children & working closely with communities through my initiatives – The Story Station, Katha Mehfil Audio App and The Lit Bug Fest (children’s multilingual lit fest)
Talking Fingers Magazine Team
Designing and compiling Talking Fingers Magazine, a platform that amplifies AAC voices and celebrates neurodivergent creativity, lived experiences, and self-expression. It is designed by Anudeep Kandula, our creative Director.
Hello, I am Anand Shiva.
I am minimally speaking autistic. My preferred mode of communication is Typing.
Last year I joined the Talking Fingers magazine team. I learnt to compile the online magazine using Canva. It has given me a lot of confidence. I enjoy it too.
I am Shiva Sanjith from Hyderabad. I communicate using Avaz and Letterboard. I am a writer and also learning to bake and code. I also do crafts.
My simple work of compiling Talking Fingers Magazine has been relaxing and rewarding
Hello, I am Sarrvajeet Krishnaprasad from Chennai. I am an Award winning Author, Artist, Innovator & Compiler. I communicate mainly using my keyboard or mobile apps for speech. I also use Avaz at times. It is a great experience compiling for the Talking Fingers Magazine.
Hello, I am Tarun Verma, a kind and helping autistic individual working in the vocational set-up at Action For Autism, New Delhi.
I communicate by using signs and Avaz, writing and speaking out a few words.
I love to work using photoshop and canva and I am very keen to learn them more. In my free time I like to listen to music and solve complex jigsaw puzzles.
I always look forward to compile Talking Fingers Magazine and I absolutely enjoys the job.
Advisors
Our advisors bring diverse expertise, strategic guidance, and valuable perspectives that help strengthen APF’s mission and support our long-term growth and impact.
Hi, I am Akila Vaidyanathan, a thought leader in Disability and Inclusion – I have seeded and anchored unique concepts and programs in this area which have benefited the community across India .
I am the Founder – Director of The Amaze Charitable Trust, an NGO based out of Coimbatore
founded in 2012. Amaze runs a successful skill training center as well as several online training
programs for adolescents and adults with Autism. Amaze pioneered the concept of “Adventure
Camps for persons with Special needs” and has conducted over 25 such camps . I have participated actively in the design of the Covaicare Inclusive living with Seniors for PWD project since its inception along with my husband, Sriram Narayan.
I discovered my life’s purpose when my son, Nishant was diagnosed with Autism and Apraxia.
I quit my successful international career in the software industry and trained myself as an
educator and psychologist to help my son and those like him as well as help mentor parents and train professionals in this area.
I am currently Vice President, South and member of the Executive Council for Autism Society of India ,Trustee of the Covai Care trust and a member of the Governing Council of the Foundation for Human Learning and Growth – Aastha .
“When you do things from your soul , you feel a river moving in you. A Joy”… Rumi
A warm hello, I am Archita Basu, mother to a young man with autism named Babu. It is due to him that I traversed this path and now journeying on a life with autism with all its myriad colours.
It was my earnest desire to know more about autism that spurred me to formally study it at a University level with a M.Ed in Autism from University of Birmingham UK and another certified course with the National Autistic Society and University of Cumbria led by Dr Steve Mee , besides other trainings and being an Inclusion Trainer with the Inclusive Solutions, U.K.
I believe that one’s lived experiences with autism are the true teachers. Inclusion of people with autism is my passion, without it no society can call itself civilized or humane even with all its plethora of advancements. To Anudeep and the team’s innovative efforts, a salute is apt as it is a pure force of consciousness and energy searing through and a voice from the heart which shines through this noble venture. All my best and blessings for Anupam Prayaas and it is indeed an honour to be associated.
Hi, I am Padma Ramani. I am a post graduate in Chemistry and a special educator. I worked in special schools for 16 years, both abroad and within India. I am now a freelance therapist for children with multiple disabilities and a counsellor. I have been associated with Amaze charitable trust in conducting adventure camps for the past 8 years.
During the pandemic , started online Sanskar class for children with Special needs . They learn to recite shlokas and listen to stories with moral values/ stories from mythology etc . An opportunity to interact as well as learn ! I am a member of the advisory board at Prakramika vocational institute since 2023Fund raiser / volunteer with Team Everest , since 2019 to educate underprivileged children.
Hi, I am Seema Ganjoo, a qualified Cost Accountant who embarked on a new journey as an autism parent in 2005 when my younger son, Aayush, was diagnosed. Determined to support his development, I focused on home-based intervention, working under the guidance of Dr. Vibha Krishnamurthy and Reena Singh. This journey led me to be part of the first batch of the Autism Intervention Training Program (AITP) under Dolores Scheelen in 2010, further deepening my knowledge and strengthening my desire to work in this field.
In 2016, I founded Rhyme’N’Reason Autism Intervention Centre, Mumbai, to bridge the critical gap in parent training. Initially focusing on one-on-one therapy sessions, the center expanded with the support of my colleague Ms. Charmaine Aranjo, allowing us to offer parent and teacher training as well.
Since 2019, I have trained over 400 parents and professionals worldwide, providing them with ready-to-use materials to support their journey.
Autism intervention is an ever-evolving field, and sharing my knowledge is both a privilege and a continuous learning journey. I am honored to be associated with the Anupam Prayaas Foundation and remain committed to empowering parents, professionals, and educators.
Hi, I am Sridevi Prasad. I have over thirty nine years experience as a Special Educator. I am a post graduate in Psychology from Osmania University. My areas of expertise involve working with diverse students with special needs including intellectual challenges, autism, emotional
disturbances, learning disabilities. As a special educator, I have guided parents and staff in
identifying an appropriate education for each student in regular or special school setting.
Additionally, I have aided students in finding support services to acquire educational qualifications and employment within the community. Students from Shankar Foundation are working at Wells Fargo, S and P Global, Tata Advance systems in dignified positions in spite of their limitations. I love to follow-up with my students when they become adults and to highlight their skills in education, vocational careers and prepare them for independent living and dignified employment.
I am founder of Shankar Foundation and have enabled thousands of children and youngsters to reach their full potential. I have been honoured by many esteemed organizations for my remarkable work. I am marked as most passionate lady in the sector of disabilities by Sir Abdul Kalaam.
Volunteers – Anupam Mitr
At Anupam Prayaas Foundation, our dedicated volunteers are the heart of everything we do. Each volunteer brings unique skills, experiences, and a deep commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities. As essential members of our team, they work alongside staff, community members, and those we serve to create an inclusive, supportive environment for all. They are our Anupam Mitr!
Our volunteers work across various programs, assisting with activities, events, outreach, and support services. Their dedication not only enriches the lives of those we serve but also strengthens our entire community. We are grateful for their unwavering support and the difference they make every day.
With each act of kindness, every hour spent, and all the passion they pour into their work, our volunteers help to shape a world that is more inclusive, compassionate, and accessible for people with disabilities. We’re incredibly proud to work alongside these dedicated individuals who are truly making a difference. Together, we’re not just building programs – we’re building a community where everyone can thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the team at Anupam Prayaas Foundation composed of neurodivergent individuals?
Yes. We strongly believe in “Nothing About Us Without Us.” Our team has Anudeep Kandula (Our creative Director) and our Talking Fingers magazine team has Neurodivergent AAC users and the magazine features contributions from neurodivergent voices, ensuring that it truly reflects the community we serve.
Who is an “Anupam Mitr” and how can I join?
An Anupam Mitr is a dedicated volunteer who helps spread our “Inclusion Revolution.” Whether you are an educator or a student, you can support us by conducting storybook giveaways, organizing sessions at schools, or contributing to our magazine. We would love to hear from you!
What makes Anupam Prayaas unique compared to other NGOs in India?
Our strength lies in our “Inclusion in Action” approach. Through initiatives like Talking Fingers Magazine and Inclusive Storybooks, we don’t just talk about inclusion; we provide a platform for neurodivergent artists and writers to showcase their brilliance to the world and enable organic inlcusion.
