Pt Prodyut Mukherjee conducts music therapy workshop for autistic children in Hyderabad

Pt Prodyut Mukherjee recently conducted a music therapy workshop for autistic children at a Hyderabad-based residential and therapy centre for children and adults on the autism spectrum, in collaboration with Sangitanjaly Foundation. The initiative aimed to explore the role of music in supporting emotional expression, communication and relaxation among children on the autism spectrum.Titled Healing Through Music, the workshop brought together children, parents and caregivers in an interactive setting where rhythm and melody were used as tools for engagement and connection. The session encouraged participants to respond to sounds, rhythms and musical patterns in a supportive environment.Speaking about the initiative, Abhijeeth Bhattacharjee, chairman of the foundation, said, “Music is a bridge to healing and inclusion.”Mukherjee highlighted the importance of such programmes, saying, “These workshops calm and heal their minds. It helps improve their mental well-being. Besides that, it is our primary responsibility to give them a better world.” The workshop focused on the therapeutic benefits of music, which has been associated with improvements in communication, emotional regulation and social interaction among autistic children. Organisers incorporated calming musical elements and participatory activities designed to create a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.Instruments such as the tabla and djembe were used to encourage direct participation, allowing the children to interact with rhythm and sound. According to organisers, the impact of the session was visible in the children's engagement and responses throughout the workshop.Dr Anil Kundra, president of Autism Ashram, welcomed the initiative and stressed the value of music-based interventions. “Music therapy is a game-changer for autistic children,” he said.The event also saw active involvement from parents, many of whom joined their children in dancing and participating in the activities. The workshop concluded on a positive note, highlighting the potential of music as a medium for inclusion, expression and emotional well-being.The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the foundation and the residential and therapy centre to create supportive and enriching experiences for children on the autism spectrum and their families.