In today’s interview, we meet Anand – an autistic individual who has shared his lived experiences in our storybook – Anand and Thatha’s Outings.
Q) How would you like to introduce yourself to our readers..
I am Anand.
I am a minimally speaking autistic.
I like doing any type of handiwork. I am now learning weaving, and block printing.
This year I joined the Talking Fingers magazine and am learning Canva from the TF team.
Q) Please share your hobbies and interests with us.
I will describe myself as a friendly person. And adjusting.
I like music. Movie songs, Carnatic music, instrumental music, and rhymes and songs from childhood.
Watching YouTube videos is a favourite pastime. I enjoy cooking shows, and travel videos. I have watched videos of New York City during winter, a tour of shops and cafes in Tokyo, a walking tour of London, travel vlogs by people trekking up the Himalayas.
Q) Would you like to share your thoughts on the incidents narrated in this book..
Seeing my story, and listening to it makes me happy. When I hear my story read aloud, I have a big smile on my face. I remember all the places mentioned in the book and the fun scooter rides.
Q) How did it feel to see your lived experience in an illustrated book?
Reading about my scooter rides in Chennai, my bus rides in Singapore made me feel really happy. As it helped me remember those days.
Q) Please share your thoughts on inclusion and how we can work towards a better tomorrow.
When people around me are comfortable with my stims and my slow pace of doing things I feel included. When people do not get stressed and impatient with my autism I can be myself.
Here’s the animated version of – Anand and Thatha’s Outings!
