Thiruvananthapuram: At just 17 years old, Thiruvananthapuram native Akhin’s life story is one of unparalleled resilience and devotion to his art. From being abandoned by his parents to becoming a beacon of hope for his family and students, his journey exemplifies how passion and perseverance can triumph over the harshest circumstances. 

Today, as he stands tall with an A grade in every event he competed at for the 63rd Kerala School Kalolsavam, his story shines as a testament to determination, sacrifice, and the transformative power of dance.

Born into a modest household, Akhin’s life took a tumultuous turn when his parents legally separated when he was very young. Both parents severed all ties, leaving him and his two sisters in the care of their grandmother. With no support system except for his grandmother, Akhin faced the daunting challenge of not just growing up but also taking responsibility for his siblings.

A path forged through dance

The interst for dance entered his life as an unexpected blessing. A talent test in class three became the turning point when Kalakshetra Ashwathi, a dance teacher, recognized his potential. “She saw something in me that I didn’t even realize myself...Despite knowing that I couldn’t afford formal training, she offered to teach me for free.” Under her guidance, he learned the basics of Bharatanatyam, laying the foundation for his journey in classical dance.

However, financial hardships persisted. Realizing the expenses associated with pursuing dance, Akhin considered giving it up. That was when Sunil Gopura, another dance guru, stepped into his life. “Sunil sir is nothing short of a God-sent...He began teaching me without asking for a fee after understanding the difficult circumstances at home.” 

Despite his talent and passion, setbacks were not uncommon. One particularly disheartening incident occurred during his sub-district participation a few years ago. Arriving just five minutes late to a Bharatanatyam competition, he was denied the chance to perform, even though only two contestants were participating. “It was devastating...But I refused to let it define me. That year, I performed only Kerala Nadanam, earned an A grade for the event, and used the experience as motivation to improve,” he recalled.

His determination bore fruit when he excelled in all his events at the Higher Secondary Kalolsavam, securing A grades across the board. “His journey from being denied a stage to achieving this level of excellence is remarkable,” said a relative.

Sacrifices and dreams

Dance became more than just an art form for Akhin—it became a means to support his family. At a very young age, he began teaching dance to others, eventually establishing his own dance school, Thasmai, in Venjaramoodu. Today, the school trains 25 students in Bharatanatyam, and Kuchipudi. He himself is trained in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kerala Natanam, and folk dance. 

The income from his teaching has not only sustained his family but also enabled him to make significant sacrifices. Just four months ago, Akhin married off his elder sister using the money he earned from his dance classes. “It was one of the proudest moments of my life...Dance gave me the strength and resources to support my family. It’s not just my passion—it’s my lifeline.”

With aspirations of joining Kalakshetra after completing class 12, Akhin dreams of further honing his craft and dedicating his life to classical dance. “Dance has shaped who I am today...It has been my anchor through every storm. Without Kalakshetra Ashwathi and Sunil sir, I wouldn’t be here today," he added.

His journey is also a testament to the support he received from his mentors. “Even the teachers who trained me did not look for monetary benefits,” he says. “They became my family when I needed one the most.”