THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The life of Akhin, who secured an A grade in Bharatanatyam, has the scent of art that took care of his elder and younger sister. The Bharatanatyam competition was held yesterday at the Karthika Thirunal Theater in Kottayam, the venue of the State School Arts Festival. Akhin's arrival was in the confidence of keeping his family together with the strength of his own legs. He received a standing ovation and got the results.

Akhin's parents got legally separated when he was in seventh standard. Both of them did not contact their children afterwards! Akhin cried for months, hugging his sisters. Plavila house in Alanthara, Venjaramoodu, built by their father, was the only relief. Akhin, who started learning dance from fourth grade, was not ready to give up. He started teaching dance to other children. Akhin married off his elder sister and educated his younger sister by managing the income earned from it.

This 17-year-old, whose life is a textbook, performed brilliantly in the Bharatanatyam for the boys of the higher secondary section. Akhin presented the story of Shiva's son Muruka and his filial affection.

Grandmother's sister Saraswati was the one who looked after the three children. Akhin started training in dance along with his studies when Saraswati's income from housework was insufficient to make both ends meet. His sister got married two months ago.

Akhin's desire

Akhin's dream is to become a famous dancer. Akhin had got A grade for Kerala Natanam in the last state arts festival. Akhin is studying in Govt HSS, Venjaramood. He is also competing in Kuchipudi this year. Akhila and Plus One student Athira are siblings. Akhila's husband is Pranav, a native of Kannur.