Dr.Parasuram Ramamoorthi began a theatrical organization 12 years ago that has brought artistic value to the condition of autism. Dr. Ramamoorthi’s organization, Velvi, has gained recognizance as a set of modules established to assist with autism through the world of performing arts. The organization’s aim is to tap into the areas of difficulty teaching life and social skills. As kids with autism can have issues with shyness and behavior, the Velvi organization replaces those feelings with helpful exercises through their workshop.
The Velvi organization
Though not a medical doctor, Dr. Ramamoorthi does hold degrees from India in drama and theatre. His organization began as a means of helping those with mental disorders such as schizophrenia and those battling tremendous stress.
Dr. Ramamoorthi developed the concept of Velvi from its definition meaning “an interior journey, an act of purification for the welfare of humanity.”
As the program furthered, Dr. Ramamoorthi discovered that much of the program’s work could easily be applied to those with a neurological diagnosis as well. He is also acknowledged as one of the first workshops to use masks as a technique for improving eye contact and gaze in participants.
Velvi workshop covers:
• Training in self-development
• Actor training workshops
• Theatre productions
• Overseas students training program in Indian arts
• Cultural tours of South India including yoga training
• Tailor-made programs to meet the needs of the individual participants
Achievements
The Velvi organization has won awards for achievement including the Leverhulme Visiting Fellow award and the Grozdanin Kikot award by the Serbian Government. In addition to India, Dr. Ramamoorthi has conducted drama for autism workshops in the United Kingdom, and recently brought his workshop to Chicago for the Autism Society of America annual conference earlier this year. For more information or to contact the Velvi Organization, visit Velvi.org.
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