Bengaluru, April 2025 — What began in 2015 with just 25 participants has now become one of Bengaluru’s most heartfelt movements. The Drive for Autism returned this April for its 10th Year—bringing together bikers, families, and citizens for a unique city-wide treasure hunt designed to spark awareness and conversation around autism.

 This year’s edition was elevated by the partnership with The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, Hotel Conventions Residencies, serving as the elegant hospitality partner—alongside Tusker Harley Davidson – Bengaluru Chapter as the spirited riding partner—transforming the city’s streets into moving canvases of empathy. Participants decorated their vehicles with powerful, thought-provoking messages about autism and set off across Bengaluru, spreading awareness one kilometer at a time. The most impactful messages were recognized and rewarded—encouraging thoughtfulness, advocacy, and community involvement.

 But the drive is only the beginning. Participants, including Jeepers from communities like Bangalore Mudsters, Superbikes from Special Initiative Riders converged post-drive for breakfast and a vibrant showcase of performances by high-functioning individuals on the spectrum. The event also featured curated talks by caregivers and subject matter experts, fostering real dialogue between citizens and those living with or supporting someone with autism. The event was ably supported by Companies that align with the cause. Meraki Eco designs, Bridge Health, EssEss Corp to name a few. It was heartwarming to see many famous personalities from the Fashion and Film Industry support the cause. Spotted during the Flag off were Ms. Angana Roy, Mr. Raghu Mukherjee, Ms. Anu Prabhakar, Mr. Sanjay and Ms. Shammi Choraria, and Mr. Rubin Raj, also graced the occasion as a special guest to Flag Off the Drive for Autism.

 Speaking on the success of Drive for Autism’s 10th edition, Mr. Virender Razdan, General Manager, The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, Hotel Conventions Residences said, “At The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, Hotel Conventions Residences; we believe that true leadership is about fostering empathy, inclusivity, and positive change in the communities we serve. Partnering with the ‘Drive for Autism’ initiative aligns perfectly with Leela’s values of compassion and excellence. It’s inspiring to see how this movement has grown from a small group of 25 individuals to a city-wide celebration of understanding and acceptance.

 Platforms like Drive for Autism remind us that creating meaningful impact is not just about individual efforts but about collective action. By bringing together bikers, families, caregivers, and citizens under one umbrella, ‘Drive for Autism’ is more than an event—it’s a powerful movement that transforms streets into canvases of empathy and dialogue. We are proud to support RJ Snigdha’s vision, which has not only sparked conversations but also built bridges between communities. At The Leela, we are committed to hospitality that goes beyond bricks and mortar—it’s about contributing to a world that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and more understanding for everyone.”

 The initiative is the brainchild of RJ Snigdha—a former Radio Jockey, and parent to a child on the spectrum—who started the drive in response to the lack of public understanding about autism. Over the years, her goal has remained consistent: to create an inclusive space where individuals with autism, their families, and everyday citizens can connect, listen, and learn from one another.

 “The most powerful shift happens when people sit together—strangers at first—and leave with understanding, empathy, and purpose,” shares RJ Snigdha. “That’s what this drive does. It brings people in, and then it brings them closer.”