By Meenakshi Pawha
Disability is an inevitable condition that affects nearly everyone at some stage, and its duration can vary from brief to prolonged. It is an inherent aspect of human beings. Recently, I read An Unplanned Journey: Stories of Empathy from the Frontiers of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities by Naval Pant which offers a tapestry of poignant and compelling accounts of real-life experiences of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities that comprise both children and adults with special needs.
Naval Pant, the author, has discovered an invigorating perspective on the complex subject of disability. Spanning a wide range of disabilities, such as autism, language and speech impairments, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), the author offers a nuanced, in-depth knowledge of the characteristics of these challenges, as well as specific strategies for assisting children in maximising their cognitive and emotional capabilities.
He obtained a degree in Mathematical Statistics but transitioned to Educational Philosophy for his postgraduate studies and PhD. In 2005, he established an organisation dedicated to providing high-quality services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). He strongly advocates for their comprehensive development, rehabilitation, and vocational training within an inclusive setting. His book contains a collection of fourteen stories straight from the heart. This book is unique. The book’s unconventional subject matter, crafted by a perceptive author, compelled me to hold the book in my hand and examine its plush velvet cover, awestruck by its captivating title.
I commenced reading swiftly flipping through the pages with eager speed. The author employs a distinctive storytelling style and smoothly transitions the readers from one story to another. In the introductory chapter, Naval Pant declares that “This narrative is thus at once an autobiographical account, a memoir of the institution we built, a chronicle of the heroic struggles of young children and some of my learnings from serving in the field of special needs education.”
The first story is the only fictionalised account in the collection. The rest emanate from deep lived experiences of Naval Pant and his team of dedicated teachers. “Until you have a kid with special needs, you have no idea of the depth of your own strength, tenacity, and resourcefulness” is the quote which begins the second chapter, “An Unplanned Journey”. It sets the tone of the book as well. It tells us, “There is no roadmap on this island…You don’t know its topography…your situation is unique…Gradually, you learn to accept your situation.”
The concluding chapter delves into the various services extended by his institution, its fundamental tenets and educational philosophy, and the difficulties encountered in a post-pandemic society. It adequately reiterates the organisation’s spiritual drivers that result in the forging relationships between the teachers and the students free from dominance or authority and encourages communication between them. He shows how it is beneficial to prioritise a culture of engagement in educational institutions not rooted in hierarchy. What stood out most prominently for me was the language and tone of the book. The text is highly readable, resembling a casual dialogue between intimate acquaintances. It employs common words, concepts, and ideas, rendering it remarkably engaging and riveting. The book lacks is a narrative that fleshes out the myriad challenges and barriers that caregivers and their children are confront with in society on a daily basis. While it alludes to the topic, it does not extensively investigate or analyse it.
The strength of the book resides in its consistent provision of solutions for every topic it addresses. Naval Pant’s book offers valuable motivation for individuals with impairments and parents and educators who must confront daunting challenges. These stories serve as sources of inspiration, promoting good change in students’ lives and fostering hope, peace, and potential for transformation. Although the book extensively explores the topic of disabilities and its related difficulties, the main message that resonates is the admirable quality of a courageous and tenacious individual who perseveres and harnesses his experiences to foster personal growth rather than succumbing to bitterness. The author does not experience the sorrow that accompanies the task of raising a child with disability. The book illustrates the significant endeavour required to effect substantial transformations worldwide.
The book will be of enormous interest to parents, special educators, disability experts and non-profit organisations interacting with these stakeholders. Unquestionably, engaging with this book will undoubtedly stimulate contemplation over the future of education in Disability Studies for both theorists and practitioners.
Meenakshi Pawha is a retired professor from the University of Lucknow.
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