Amekh and his twin sister Ardrika started to dance at the age of three under the tutelage of their uncle, Manudev. 

Manudev, a passionate dancer, couldn't fulfil his dream of participating in dance competitions during his school time due to unfavourable conditions at home. He gives wings to his dreams by training his nephew and niece and guiding them in accomplishing their passion.

At the 62nd State Youth Festival, on the Keralanadanam platform, when Amekh presented the story of Lord Shiva disguised as 'Kattala' to test Arjuna, Manudev's heart pounded with joy. 

For Amekh, the grade 8 student, this is his first time at the State Youth Festival. He was trained in Bharatanatyam and Kuchippudi from childhood but only participated in Keralanadanam at the Festival. He mastered Keralanadanam in a very short period. 

The rule that only let one individual item per person at the sub-district level and only five students from a school at a time thwarted his dream of participating in other items. 

Winning the district-level competition to reach the state-level competition was a matter of great joy for Amekh, Manudev and their family. Financial difficulty stood in his way, which didn't weaken his spirit in performing.

Daily wage workers Bhaskaran and wife Anu love to talk about their son's talent and dream but are held back due to the challenges of meeting the expenses. Presently, Amekh's father is under treatment for liver disease, and the family is struggling to make ends meet.

Manudev has been teaching dance for the past 20 years. He earns a meagre income as he takes only nominal fees. Though physically weakened by cold and chest congestion, with a sparkling inner spirit, Amekh danced his heart out on the stage.

Amekh returns with the hope and dreams of participating in the Kalolsavam in the years to come.