Andhra Pradesh, India – 2nd April, better known as World Autism Awareness Day, saw multiple million dollar grants being given around the world but numerous more humble and heartfelt initiatives too were taken all across the world. One such autism awareness drive took place in the state of Andhra Pradesh in the world’s second most populous country, India.
An Autism Awareness Walk was organized. Famed actors Shivaji Raja and Srikanth graced the occasion with their presence bringing along the much welcome media attention and public awareness.
2,130,141 cases of autism are present in India currently and the numbers are growing steadily. The need for spreading awareness about the condition being different from mental retardation is extremely essential. India, this year onwards, joined hands in spreading awareness about autism by participating in the campaign called Light It Up Blue.
The Ripon building in Chennai, Simpsons building on Anna Salai and Savera and Residency Towers hotels, Express Avenue and City Centre mall were all bathed in a brilliant blue light on this landmark day. The United Nations had declared 2nd April to be World Autism Awareness Day back in 2007 and every year since then landmark buildings like the Empire State Building in New York have been lit up with blue light to spread the word.
The original broadcast of this coverage from Tv9 Telugu can be viewed below: