Kalikavu: A 10-second Instagram reel has helped a family in Jharkhand reconnect with a man who had gone missing nearly 10 years ago.

The unexpected reunion began when MK Mohammed Yasir, an employee at a dry fruits company in Thamarassery, visited Karunyadeepam Pratheeksha Bhavan, a care home for persons with disabilities near Thamarassery, as part of Independence Day celebrations.

While recording the celebrations, Yasir noticed a young man in the group smiling at the camera. The two exchanged waves, and Yasir later posted the brief interaction as an Instagram reel.

The video eventually reached people who recognised the young man. Some Hindi-speaking viewers first contacted Yasir, followed by the man's relatives.

The relatives identified him as a Jharkhand native with disabilities who had gone missing from a railway station in Mumbai around 10 years ago. During his journey from Mumbai, he had reportedly lost his way and eventually reached Kozhikode railway station.

He was later shifted to the Children's Home at Vellimadukunnu through Childline. After turning 18, he was moved to Karunyadeepam Pratheeksha Bhavan in Thamarassery, where he was known by the name Rasheed.

The relatives also identified him through a video call, bringing an end to their decade-long search.

As the man was taken into the care of the Social Justice Department, the process of formally handing him over to his relatives is currently underway.

Navas, CEO of Karunyadeepam Pratheeksha Bhavan, said the necessary procedures have to be completed before the reunion can take place.