While people are busy buying costly products from the mall, a 16-year old boy sells bubble-toys to run his house. This might read like another piece of poor man’s story. But no. This is the story of Pratap Joshi who is reportedly an autistic kid, struggling from poverty. As per the video doing rounds on the internet, Pratap is reportedly from Dehradun, and sells toys outside Vikas Mall. When asked how much money he makes in a day by selling toys, he proudly says, “₹500 a day”. However, it’s not his age that draws attention but, but the claim that he is autistic. Those who don’t know autism is a neurodevelopmental condition which can shape how a person communicates and processes sensory input. The condition also determines the person’s coping mechanism amid demanding or unfamiliar environments.The image of a minor managing daily survival on the streets has stirred concern rather than spectacle. It touches on a deeper note, a more uncomfortable side of human reality: what happens when disability, childhood, and financial crisis happen together.Understanding Autism in a layman languageAutism spectrum condition is not a disease or illness. But most of the time, the condition requires structured support, understanding caregivers, and, in many cases, therapeutic and medical assistance too. But think of the pain of families already under financial strain, this support can be extremely difficult making life full of hardship. Pratap’s situation highlights not individual failure but systemic gaps. A child navigating the demands of public space, noise, crowds, and uncertainty is already carrying a heavy burden. Adding financial survival to that equation raises serious questions about what support systems are reaching families like his — and what is falling through the cracks.When asked whom he gives his daily earnings to, he smiles and says, “mummy ko”. His story also highlights the fact that autism does not define someone’s capability to do something. The world is full of autistic individuals who are leading independent, happy and fulfilling lives. The concern here is not Pratap’s ability, but the circumstances.The person in the video asks Pratap if he would like to work, to which he replies, “Haan, kaam karunga”. Supportive commentsThe video touched people deeply and emotions surfaced quickly. Some reactions were prayer-like, “Waheguru Satnam Ji, mehar karo”, echoing a quiet plea for protection. Yet beyond sympathy, there was something else: recognition and acceptance.The story sparked concern and many responses remained careful. Some people also asked whether there were ways to offer structured help, some also suggested fundraising and others urged platforms and organisations to step in responsibly. One comment gently proposed whether a crowdfunding initiative could help. These responses and comments do not add drama, instead, it acknowledges a reality faced by families raising children on the autism spectrum. As Pratap’s story circulates online, it has garnered sympathy, shock, and calls for immediate help. The story is a reminder of how easily some families can slip into survival mode.If verified, Pratap’s presence outside a mall is a reflection of unmet needs, and a reminder that childhood should not require endurance. Not only this, it is also important to handle stories involving kids and disabilities with restraint, accuracy, and respect. However, a well-intentioned attention can also help by getting the right kind of attention.
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