About us
Who We Are
Specialized Support for Growing Minds
Founded in February 2016 in Bangalore, Aster Center for Neurodivergent Learning & Vocational Training began as a pioneering initiative—one of the first centres to integrate shadow teaching with early intervention therapies grounded in specialised education. Led by an RCI-registered Special Educator, Aster was created with a clear mission: to build inclusive, supportive learning ecosystems that empowers children with personalized, tailer made programs designed according to each child indidual needs that empower children, families, and schools.
The Faces Behind Aster Centre
Founders Who Turn Dreams Into Reality
Dhanashree
Founder
Founded in February 2016 in Bangalore, Aster Center for Neurodivergent Learning & Vocational Training began as a pioneering initiative—one of the first centres to integrate shadow teaching with early intervention therapies grounded in specialised education.
The centre was founded and is led by Ms. Dhanashree Deshmukh, an RCI-registered Special Educator, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Child Psychology, and a B.Ed. in Intellectual Disability.
With over 11 years of professional association with Mayflower Montessori, her core strength is Vocational and prevocational training, she brings extensive hands-on experience in inclusive education, early intervention, and neurodivergent learning support. Aster was established with a clear mission: to build inclusive, supportive learning ecosystems that empower children, families, and schools through collaboration, evidence-based practices, and compassionate expertise.
Aparna
Co-Founder
Aparna Palanki is a certified Montessori educator with over 13 years of experience in early childhood education and early intervention. She began her professional journey with Mayflower Montessori, where she spent nearly a decade developing strong expertise in Montessori-based teaching and individualized learning.
With a deep commitment to child-centered education, Aparna believes in nurturing each child’s potential through structured, sensory-rich, and developmentally appropriate approaches. She has been an integral part of Aster Centre for over a year, contributing meaningfully to the progress of children with special needs.
As the Co-Founder of Aster Centre’s expansion, she plays a key role in shaping its vision, growth, and inclusive learning environment—ensuring Montessori principles remain at the heart of all programs.
Sheetal
Art education program designer
Shades Creatives Studio, founded by Sheetal Kulkarni, is born from a passion for art and creativity. With over 15 years of teaching experience, Shades has evolved from an arts academy into a vibrant creative studio offering certified courses, workshops, and art experiences. Rooted in Indian art and culture, Shades continues to inspire creativity and bring art into every home.
Shades Academy and Aster collaborate in delivering pre-vocational and vocational training programs for children with special needs. Sheetal’s empathy, enthusiasm, and dedication play a vital role in supporting children’s growth toward independence. She actively contributes by conducting engaging art-based workshops that foster creativity and skill development.
Our numbers that speak
Our Mission
At Aster Center, our mission is to provide inclusive, individualized, and evidence-based learning and vocational training for neurodivergent children and adolescents. We are committed to creating supportive, school-based environments that nurture strengths, address challenges
Our Vision
Our vision is to build an inclusive society where neurodivergent individuals are understood, respected, and supported throughout their lifelong journey. We aspire to be a center of excellence that bridges education, therapy, and vocational pathways—enabling children