Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 13 Nov: An evening of profound emotion and shared hope unfolded at Latika today as author Suchitra Shenoy held a special reading of her new book, “Moy Moy’s Circle: A True Story of Love, Disability and the World we can Build Together”. The event drew a large audience, most notably parents of children with disabilities, who found deep resonance and renewed inspiration in the powerful narrative of love, resilience, and community.
The book chronicles the extraordinary life of Moy Moy, a child with multiple disabilities, and her adoptive mother, Jo Chopra McGowan, an American woman who made India her home. Their journey together was the catalyst for the creation of the Latika, a pioneering Dehradun-based organisation that has been a beacon of hope for thousands of families for over three decades.
The reading was more than a literary event; it was a gathering of the very community the book celebrates. Parents listened intently as Shenoy’s words brought to life a story that mirrored their own struggles and triumphs. For many, it was a powerful affirmation that they are not alone.
“This story gives us so much courage,” one parent shared anonymously after the reading. “To know that this path has been walked before, and that it led to the creation of something as beautiful as Latika, strengthens our resolve to advocate fiercely for our own children’s futures.”
In her address, Suchitra Shenoy spoke about the universal message at the heart of the story. “Moy Moy’s Circle is a testament to the fact that a single life, regardless of its perceived limitations, can create boundless ripples of change,” Shenoy stated. “Her legacy is one of care and compassion, and this book aims to ensure that her circle of love continues to expand, supporting the vital work Latika does every day.”
The book has already garnered high praise from distinguished figures such as historian Ramachandra Guha and author Rajmohan Gandhi. In a gesture of profound commitment to the cause, Shenoy is donating all author royalties from the book directly to the Latika.
Jo Chopra McGowan, founder of Latika, added, “Moy Moy taught us that dignity is a right, not a privilege. This book captures her spirit perfectly. Seeing so many families here tonight, connected by her story, is proof that her legacy is alive and well.”
The meeting concluded with an interactive session where attendees engaged with the author, sharing personal stories and reinforcing the sense of a shared journey. Books were available for purchase, with many attendees leaving not just with a signed copy, but with a renewed sense of purpose.
For 30 years, the Latika has been a leader in providing services for children with developmental disabilities in Uttarakhand. What began with three students has grown into a comprehensive resource centre empowering hundreds of families annually. The foundation provides high-quality, affordable services including specialised education, therapeutic care, vocational training, and crucial legal assistance to ensure the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities are upheld.
Suchitra Shenoy is an acclaimed author whose work often explores themes of social justice and human resilience. Her previous works include the award-nominated book Infinite Vision: How Aravind Became the World’s Largest Business Case for Compassion.
