A visually challenged boy who was first spotted singing on a TSRTC bus is now all set to perform on a Telugu TV show. This opportunity came about after TSRTC Managing Director V C Sajjanar shared a video of Raju singing while the passengers listened intently. The video, posted on Instagram, soon gained much attention.
Sajjanar tagged Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani, urging him to consider Raju for playback singing in films. While Keeravani has yet to respond, music director SS Thaman took action. “I will ensure he performs on a Telugu TV show,” Thaman said. He hailed Raju’s pitch and further commented, “I will also sing with him.”
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Sajjanar celebrates the birthday of Raju on Children’s Day to celebrate his new achievement. The story of Raju has inspired millions across the country.
Raju’s Journey
He is 32 years old, and comes from Shamshiguda village in Telangana, about 40 km from Hyderabad. Born blind, he lives with his mother, sister, and brother-in-law. His mother Sattemma said in an interview, “As a child, he would sit on the parapet and sing. He learned songs by listening to tape recorders from neighbors.”
He claims his love for music has just gotten deep. This is a boy who is able to create rhythm just from a can and a one-rupee coin for the singing. To develop more on his talent, he attends Carnatic music class every Sunday and is even learning how to play Mridangam.
The video in which Raju sang on the bus was really an example of his greatness, but more than that, his determination and passion for singing were also brought out there. Thaman’s gesture is likely to open a door for Raju into the music industry. Perhaps his performance in a Telugu television show could act as a platform for bigger things.
It’s an excellent example of talent, perseverance, and support from Raju’s journey. Thanks to encouragement from people like Thaman and Sajjanar, the dream of a visually impaired singer is becoming more feasible for him to make his mark in the music world.
