ADDRESS AT THE RELEASE OF ‘TO FINE UNIVERSE’, BOOK BY NAYAN SHYAM AT KERALA RAJ BHAVAN - 1130 HRS. ON 02-04-2018

Dr. K. Vasuki, District Collector,

Dr. George Onakkoor, Noted Writer,

Dearest Nayan Shyam, our young Poet,

Nayan's Parents,

Sahodaree Sahodaranmaare,

Ellaavarkkum Ente Namaskaaram,

 

I am very happy to release this book, which is a collection of insights by Master Nayan Shyam. It is entitled To Fine Universe and is the second book by this eight year old boy, who has also been recognized as the youngest Autistic Philosopher in the world. What makes Nayan a great example is his beautiful mind that inspired him to try to conquer a developmental disability through intellectual ways. To this world, which sees Autism as a lifelong disability without full cure, little Nayan's clear message is that physical and mental disability need not hinder a person from using his intellectual skills meaningfully.

As we all know, today, the 2nd of April is World Autism Awareness Day. It is appropriate that we released Nayan's book today.

It is well known that Autism affects children in different ways. Some face learning difficulties, some face mental disorders and others find difficulty in writing and other forms of expression. This calls for extending different types of support to children with Autistic conditions. Quite often, children with autistic tendencies have to remain aloof without friends in school. What is needed in homes and schools, therefore, is a clear understanding of the needs of children, especially girls, with autistic difficulties. As we all know, the focus of this year's World Autism Day is on empowering Autistic girls and women.

However, little Nayan is lucky that his parents and teachers have understood the issue and have extended all support to him in his literary and philosophical pursuits. I understand that the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) has also been training this little writer for the last three years.

Nayan's book which has now been released, has sections on Nature, Science, Philosophy, Spiritual Science etc. It is good to see that well known people have written introduction to these sections. Let me congratulate Nayan and his parents on their success in publishing this book, which sheds light on the rare and lofty thinking of a young mind.

Nayan's first book was called Journey of My Soul. I would like to remind him that he has a long journey ahead and that he must go forward with full confidence and clear vision. I also compliment his parents, Smt. Priyanka and Shri Shyam who have set a model for parents of children with difficulties. I also place on record my appreciation for the interest shown by District Collector Dr. K. Vasuki and Writer Prof. George Onakkoor in encouraging our upcoming young writer.

I wish Nayan and his sister Shivapriya all the best.

Ellavarkkum Ente Aashamsakal

Nanni

Jai Hind

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