Padatik Natya Sangsad staged the 18th production of "Prerona", a play focused on raising nationwide awareness about autism. Since its founding in 1978, Padatik Natya Sangsad has played a crucial role in Bangladesh's socio-cultural movements, and the play adds to that legacy.

"Prerona" was staged yesterday at 6:30pm at the Neelima Ibrahim Auditorium at the Bangladesh Mohila Samity in Dhaka. Written and directed by Sabil Reza Chowdhury, the play highlights the challenges faced by individuals with autism, aiming to foster empathy and support in our society. Special-needs students from SWID Bangladesh also participated in the powerful production.

The play was not only about raising awareness but also sought to change societal perceptions towards people with autism and other disabilities. The team behind "Prerona" hope the audience will rethink their approach toward those with special needs, transforming their black-and-white world into a colourful one filled with possibilities. As per the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child," the creators of "Prerona" believe collective action can create a more inclusive society.

Padatik Natya Sangsad's 33rd production featured performances by actors like Samia Choudhury, Sadia Maknun, Mamun Abdullah, Dolly Akhter, and more. The production design was led by Selim Shamsul Huda Chowdhury, with Professor Abdus Selim serving as an adviser.

The initiative was a vital step in continuing the conversation on autism in Bangladesh, especially in a country that has emerged as a global model for autism awareness and support. The play was first staged on World Autism Day but was forced to stop continued showcases during the pandemic, to be revived at the Ganga Jamuna Cultural Festival.

The play tells the story of Pori, a 13-year-old girl diagnosed with autism, and how her condition affects her family, particularly her mother, Mayaboti, who sacrifices her career to care for her. Meanwhile, Pori's father, Shanto, struggles with emotional detachment and the societal pressures of raising a child with special needs. Throughout the play, Pori expresses herself through drawing, as a way to navigate her parents' conflicts and societal rejection.

The name "Prerona" comes from a school for autistic children located in Chittagong with the same name. After witnessing the state of the schools back in 2018, director Reza wanted to write about these people. 

"I've known parents who do not want to bring their children with disabilities, to social gatherings simply because people at large don't welcome them. Yet assimilating the children with society means allowing them to interact with the people freely. So I wanted to raise a discussion about it all. We all must talk."

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