The much-anticipated Jananam returns with its fifth edition — Jananam 5.0: Together for Autism 2025 — set to take place on 25 May 2025 at the Multipurpose Hall, SMK Kuen Cheng, Kuala Lumpur. Leading this meaningful initiative is well-known singer and community activist Thila Laxshman, whose personal journey continues to touch and inspire many.
This year’s Jananam features even more impactful highlights, driven by Thila’s deep commitment to autism awareness. Her son, Danvi, was born a typical child but was later diagnosed with autism at the age of three and a half. Through the challenges she faced in raising a child with special needs, Thila was inspired to extend her support to other parents going through similar experiences.
What began as a personal mission grew into something greater with the establishment of Pertubuhan Sayang Malaysia (PERSAMA), an NGO dedicated to supporting families affected by autism. Jananam 5.0 is a reflection of that mission — a celebration of resilience, community, and hope. Jananam was first launched in 2014 and has since become a meaningful platform for community engagement. Now in its fifth edition, the event aims to raise awareness about autism and generate funds to support individuals from the B40 group living with autism in our community.
Jananam 5.0 is set to showcase an inspiring lineup of performances featuring talented individuals on the autism spectrum. Highlights include special musical acts by autism stars, a unique performance by Arulini, and a guest appearance by Mrs. Vicknesvari Vadivalagan from MediaCorp Singapore.
A major highlight of the event will be a powerful stage play depicting the real-life struggles faced by families raising individuals with autism. The production is directed and scripted by Anil Shatrian, with the screenplay by Thila Laxshman and casting by Aahmu Thirunyaanam. The cast includes Tharma Thevar, Balan Santhinathan, Kavinesh, Akshayan, Ashwani, and others.
Guests will also enjoy a dome-style dinner, followed by a special performance by Thila Laxshman alongside two autism stars, SanjhevRam and Kugenthiran. The event will also mark the official launch of AweTsome Stars, a new initiative featuring collaborations with Malaysian artists.
AweTsome Stars with Malaysian Artists is the next exciting project in the pipeline by Thila Laxshman. This inspiring initiative will officially be launched at Jananam 5.0. More details about the project will be unveiled during the event. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this meaningful occasion and stay updated on the impactful work being done to support the autism community.
The proceeds generated from Jananam will serve as the driving force behind a full year of free services for B40 families with children on the autism spectrum. These services include weekly intervention sessions, art therapy, workshops, mental health support and counselling, outdoor activities, and various other resources designed to support and empower these families.
Through PERSAMA, many children with autism have been adopted into intervention programs, with the organisation actively carrying out this work for the past 12 years. However, to sustain and expand this noble initiative that continues to change lives, increased funding and support are urgently needed.
Hence, those who wish to play a small but meaningful role in supporting this noble initiative are warmly encouraged to purchase tickets for Jananam 5.0. By attending, you’ll not only enjoy an inspiring and unforgettable event, but also contribute directly to a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of families affected by autism.
For more details and to RSVP for tickets, please WhatsApp 0183980430.
All the information and images are provided by Thila Laxshman.
