Dance becomes a voice when words are limited: Avirup

On World Autism Awareness Day, Avirup Sengupta, Odissi dancer and choreographer at Prayas, highlights how art can become a voice when words fall short, as dance and music bring joy, calm, and confidence to children with Down Syndrome and Autism.Teaching through joyTeaching dance to an autistic child is less about training and more about creating a safe, enjoyable space for expression. “Every child is different, so the approach must be flexible, patient, and encouraging,” says Avirup.Simple steps, gentle guidanceAvirup keeps things simple, breaking movements into easy steps and teaching one individual at a time with gentle repetition until they feel comfortable.

“I follow a predictable structure in each session,” he says. Using soft, steady music, along with visual cues, slow demonstrations, and guided support (with consent), he ensures better understanding and engagement – his mantra remains, “Focus on expression, not perfection when teaching autistic children.

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Adapting to individual needsObserving the child’s response is key. “Some may prefer solo movement, while others might enjoy group settings.

Adapt to their pace rather than pushing them to match a standard. Most importantly, make the whole process pressure-free,” Avirup adds. In such safe, accepting spaces, dance becomes a powerful outlet for communication, emotional release, and pure joy.

I love dancing to Madhuri Dixit songs. Rituparna (Sengupta) aunty dances beautifully too. I also dance to Dus Dus from Dhurandhar– Dipa Kundu, learning dance for 12 yearsI love dancing wearing red lipstick and earrings, especially to Alo Amar Alo Ogo. Also, Dev is my favourite actor– Trina Saha, learning dance for 14 yearsPics: Anindya Saha