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This film offers insight into the lived experiences of three autistic adults
Updated On: 18 June, 2023 07:09 AM IST | Mumbai | Nidhi Lodaya
A filmmaker couple’s film on autism and intersectionality is reaching international grounds for apt representation
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The film has people from diverse backgrounds talking about their adolescent lives. It features Dan Rebello, a trans non-binary primary school teacher, Maitreya Matale, a musician and singer, and Aditi Gangrade, the director, herself
"We want to mainstream disability and inclusive storytelling,” says Aditi Gangrade, co-founder of Mumbai-based boutique storytelling studio, Much Much Media, which is dedicated to creating intersectional narratives around mental health, disability, and neurodivergence. “When we speak about disability in India,” says Gangrade, “accessibility is only limited to the handicapped section or ramps. Even in films, people with speech disability are mocked and when it comes to autism, people always say, ‘ye log paagal hai’ and they don’t have any other vocabulary,” she explains. “We need to change this and become more accepting of people and understand them with more empathy,” adds the 24-year-old.
To support her cause, Gangrade has directed Unmasking Autism: Navigating Puberty, Finding Self Identity, and Dating & Romance with co-founder, producer and husband Aalap Deboor. The eight-minute short film, which is available to view on their website, offers insight into the lived experiences of three autistic adults, representing a significant stride in the narrative of neurodivergent and disabled individuals. It was also screened at the Pride Filmtage film festival in Bremen, Germany, on Friday. The documentary-style film features Dan Rebello, a trans non-binary primary school teacher, Maitreya Matale, a musician and singer and Gangrade herself. The film is part of the MeAsMe campaign, which was made in association with Ummeed Child Development Centre, a Mumbai-based non-profit that believes all individuals with developmental disabilities can reach their maximum potential and inclusion in society.
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