On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed annually on December 3rd, we celebrate stories of resilience and advocacy that inspire change. One such story is that of Aditya Tiwari, a single father who adopted Avnish, a child with Down syndrome. Since 2016, their journey has not only highlighted the challenges faced by single male parents in India but also served as a beacon of hope for many.
Early Beginnings: The Decision to Adopt
Aditya’s journey began on September 13, 2014, during a visit to an orphanage on his father’s birthday. While there, he learned about a child who had been overlooked due to his special needs—Avnish, who was then just five months old and diagnosed with Down syndrome. Feeling an immediate connection, Aditya decided to adopt him despite the challenges that lay ahead. He recalled, “Nobody wanted to adopt the child… I thought if nobody wants to adopt him then I will.”Avnish had been abandoned by his biological parents due to his condition and health issues, including a hole in his heart. Aditya faced significant hurdles in the adoption process, as laws at the time did not allow unmarried individuals to adopt. However, he remained undeterred and continued visiting Avnish, making trips from Pune to Indore and later Bhopal.
The Adoption Process
The path to adopting Avnish was fraught with difficulties. At just 27 years old, Aditya faced age restrictions for single male adoption in India, which required prospective parents to be at least 30 years old. Undeterred, he navigated a complex legal landscape that involved sending over a hundred emails and engaging in discussions with authorities for six months before finally receiving custody on January 1, 2016.Aditya’s determination was unwavering as he fought against societal prejudices that suggested only women could care for children. “I wasn’t considered eligible for adopting any child… I was bombarded with questions,” he explained. His concerns about child trafficking and illegal custody further motivated him to advocate for change in adoption laws.
Life After Adoption
Once Avnish came into Aditya’s life, everything changed. He quit his job in IT to dedicate himself fully to parenting and began counselling other parents of children with special needs. Aditya described Avnish as “one of the best gifts from God,” acknowledging that his son taught him how to be a better person.Avnish initially faced serious health issues but thrived under Aditya’s care. Remarkably, within six months of being adopted, he started walking and was enrolled in preschool. Aditya’s commitment extended beyond parenting; he established a welfare society aimed at raising awareness about Down syndrome and supporting families with special needs children.
Recognition and Impact
Aditya’s efforts did not go unnoticed. On International Women’s Day in 2020, he was awarded the title of “Best Mommy of the World,” recognising his exceptional role as a father. His story has inspired many; he has travelled across India conducting workshops and talks about adoption and parenting special needs children at nearly 400 locations across 22 states.His advocacy work includes collaborations with organisations like the United Nations and participation in discussions aimed at improving the lives of children with intellectual disabilities. Notably, Aditya was invited to speak at the World Economic Forum in Geneva, further showcasing the global recognition of their advocacy work. Through these initiatives, Aditya has connected with thousands of parents globally, fostering a community of support and awareness.
Overcoming Societal Challenges
Despite the progress made, Aditya continues to face challenges as a single father in India. He highlights that societal norms often discourage men from taking on parenting roles traditionally associated with women. However, he remains focused on advocating for change, emphasising that parenting should not be gendered.Aditya’s journey is not just about personal triumph; it reflects broader societal issues regarding adoption and the acceptance of single fathers raising children with special needs. His efforts contributed to changes in adoption laws in India, including lowering the minimum age for single male adoption from 30 to 25 years. This change is significant as it opens doors for more men to become loving parents.
Future Aspirations and Personal Growth
Avnish’s journey is also marked by unique aspirations; he dreams of becoming a tiger keeper and actively participates in environmental projects like the “Save Tiger Project.” This interest reflects his vibrant personality and commitment to making a difference beyond traditional educational paths.Aditya has experienced profound personal growth through his parenting journey. He often reflects on how Avnish has changed his perspective on life and love: “Avnish taught me patience and compassion,” he shares.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Love
Aditya Tiwari’s journey with Avnish is a powerful narrative about love transcending societal barriers. His commitment to his son and advocacy for children with special needs continue to inspire many across India and beyond. As they navigate life together, their bond exemplifies the profound impact of unconditional love and the importance of challenging societal norms regarding parenting.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The story of Aditya Tiwari resonates deeply with The Logical Indian’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and challenging stereotypes surrounding parenting roles. It highlights the need for empathy and understanding towards all families, regardless of structure or circumstance. As we celebrate such inspiring narratives on this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we encourage our readers to reflect on their own perceptions of parenting—how can we foster an environment that supports all caregivers? Share your thoughts below!
