Bengaluru Couple Transforms Personal Search for Autism Support into a Foundation Helping 2000 Children

Sumana and Anirban Dutta, a Bengaluru couple, founded Akshadhaa Foundation in 2012 after their daughter’s autism diagnosis at three and a half. Their personal search for comprehensive support revealed fragmented services, long waiting lists, high costs, and a lack of individualized plans and progress reports for children. Sumana, initially trained in computer science, later specialized in special education, recognizing the critical need for continuity, collaboration, and active family involvement in therapy.

Starting with four children in a one-bedroom apartment, Akshadhaa Foundation now supports nearly 2,000 children and 3,200 families across Bengaluru. The foundation integrates therapy, education, and life-skills training, with special educators, therapists, and psychologists tracking progress to ensure support builds over time. Akshadhaa's philosophy centers on identifying what works for each child, guiding learning through their interests, and adapting support to individual strengths and pace. It also provides counselling to parents, helping them understand autism as a lifelong journey and equipping them to support their children at home. Naresh, who joined in 2015 for his son, values the foundation's authenticity, rooted in the founders' shared journey.

Beyond direct support, Akshadhaa offers vocational training and opportunities in retail, hospitality, packaging, and corporate settings, with three young women with autism currently earning stipends (one employed, two apprentices). Addressing parents' long-term concerns about their children's future, Anirban explored assisted living models during a 2012 Fulbright scholarship visit to US residential facilities. This led to the development of the Akshadhaa Assisted Living Community, taking shape on Bengaluru's outskirts. Designed for approximately 50 families, this community prioritizes health, safety, and continuous care for autistic individuals after their parents are no longer able to provide it.

Plans for the community include therapy centres, vocational units, a 30,000-square-foot engagement hub, community spaces, and a café. This nature-led project aims to foster daily life and meaningful connections, offering individualized support and a strong community for families who have long searched for such resources. Akshadhaa promises a future where autistic individuals can live with dignity and sustained support.

Why it matters: It provides comprehensive, continuous support and a dignified future for autistic individuals.

Editor's note: The article accurately captures the narrative of the foundation's growth and its future-facing projects based on the provided source.