KOCHI:The world of 15-year-old Athul Fathah is mostly adorned by music and his parents' unconditional love. Rather than the word 'autism' which the medical world uses to describe him, his parents explain his life as 'different'. Soon the world got a peek into his divergent life when the Incredible Book of Records awarded him the deserved title of the 'World's Youngest Autistic Instrumentalist'.
"From a very young age, music has been the solution to Athul's hyperactiveness," said Sabitha Jasmine, Athul's mother. "He had the habit of drumming around the house and singing along to music which was played to him. That should have been the first sign of his passion."
At the age of seven, Athul took his first classes in tabla, his first step in what many will consider an incredible feat for an autistic child. Two years later, his passion for drumming extended to jazz. "I have to teach him in a very systematic way. He immediately copies whatever I show him," said Joboy, Athul's drums teacher.
Through various programmes at school and other functions,Athul started growing popular among local residents. "Athul's performance at the closing ceremony of the State Sports Meet earned him a lot of attention," Sabitha said. "The event hosted at Chandrasekharan Stadium was covered by several media."
From school annual days to festive celebrations, his performances became consistent. The latest International Children's Film Festival of Kerala also featured his performance at the Tagore theatre.
Athul's induction into the Incredible Book of Records became the brightest feather on his cap. "Videos of Athul playing drums are on the internet. The delegates, withing two days of meeting him, confirmed he was the youngest autistic child to do so,"Sabitha said. "It came as a huge surprise since they usually take around three months to confirm. We are thrilled to receive the honour."
Since the induction, Athul has been felicitated in different occasions, the latest being 'Sahayatra 2018', an event organised by the Parents Association of Disabled Students, in association with NIMS Medicity.
Outside the music world, a number of Athul's friends at St Mary HSS, Pattom, keeps him busy. "Athul is quite fun to be with. We make him sing songs," said John, Athul's friend. Although not a social person, Athul enjoys the company of those who approach him. "He is always affectionate and lovable. The students understand his condition and he tries to behave like they do," Sabitha said.
An autistic child learns the most from his surroundings and this is one of the major reasons why we decided against sending him to a special children's school, she added. "Many parents are still unaware of autism and the struggles related to bringing up an autistic child," she said.
Though Athul has performed in various functions, Sabitha is dissatisfied with the lack of concern the audience show about the condition. "Autism is falsely related to retardation. This is not true since Athul's abilities need incredible coordination and talent to pull off. Most parents, who seldom find time to spend for their children today, must realise this and work towards nurturing their child's passion," she said.