Published 17:24 IST, September 11th 2019
Sachin Tendulkar celebrates Onam; shares young artists' sketch
Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar extended his greetings on the occasion of Onam on Wednesday. He shared memories of his meeting with a differently-abled artist
Sachin Tendulkar wished everyone on the occasion of Onam by posting a photo on his Twitter account. He shared details of his recent visit to Kerala where he met a young artist, who sketches with his legs. Tendulkar said that he was amazed with the drive and motivation of the artist and that these characteristics symbolized the Spirit to Kerala. Tendulkar also wished everyone joy and prosperity.
Desire to meet the legend
Pranav is a 21-year-old differently-abled artist who resides in Kerala. He was born without hands and uses only his toes to sketch portraits of players and known personalities. Earlier this year, Pranav drew a sketch of the former Indian opener and posted it on social media and stated that he hoped to meet Tendulkar someday. The post got traction and the player did see the tweet, after which he decided to meet the young artist. His wish finally came true in August when he met the legendary cricketer in person and was also able to hand over the sketch to him on the sidelines of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. The youngster has also donated to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund for the floods that hit the south Indian state with the money he raises through the sale of his paintings. He was also chosen as the youth icon representing the differently-abled for the Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) for his district.
Festival of Onam
Onam is an annual festival celebrated in the state of Kerala. It is a harvest festival and is known for its secularity and inclusiveness. Onam is a 10-day festival with the first and the last days being most important. As per the story, the Asura King of Mahabali is believed to visit the state of Kerala and Malayalees welcome the King by celebrating Onam. The people celebrate by cooking a special meal Sadya and by wearing traditional clothes. Women are clad in the traditional Kerala saree which is white in colour while the men wear white-coloured mundu and jubba.
Updated 18:57 IST, September 11th 2019