Diagnosed with a disability, music means the world to Revathy Narayanaswami

A musical genius, Revathy Narayanaswami who sings and plays the violin hails from Kochi. She was recently spotted playing the violin in inclusive music video ‘Olangal’ that was widely shared on social media. Diagnosed with a locomotor disability, Revathy credits her success to her husband and close family.

29-year-old Revathy Narayanaswami‘s love for music knows no boundaries. So in spite of a loco motor disability, she attends music shows and performs at various events. The unending support from her family and husband has helped her grow further in what she loves. Revathy owes the love for music to her family comprising of musicians. She recently appeared in the inclusive music video ‘Olangal’ that was released on 3 December, International Disabilities Day. In the video, Revathy was seen playing the violin and she turned heads with her brief performance. Currently, settled down in Kochi and running home music classes, Revathy believes music is life.

Early years

Revathy was born healthy. But during childhood, she had intense diarrhea which kept recurring. Doctor gave her an injection after which Revathy’s leg became stiff. She was unable to move from that day and had to undergo intense physiotherapy sessions and other surgeries. Now, Revathy cannot move her left leg. In spite of mobility issues, she completed her studies and is concentrating on music.

“I studied till class 10 in a mainstream school. I have never faced any discrimination owing to a disability. In fact, school was great. Since my uncle worked in the same school, help was just a call away”, says Revathy.

Her grandfather and parents are ardent music lovers who have performed at different venues. So no wonder Revathy has music in her genes! After completing her M.Com studies, she worked with a few companies on contract basis. “My last one was with the state water authority. The contract period got over now”, she says.

At college, Revathy used to travel alone, used the stairs to get to her classroom and got immense support from her friends. She got married three years back to Gopalakrishnan who works at a biomedical company in Kochi. “One of his greatest wishes is to see me as a renowned violin artist. His unending support has helped me take my music to bigger heights. He loves listening to my performances too”, says Revathy.

A musical genius

Talking about her tryst with ‘Olangal’, Revathy says that she got a chance to be part of the music video after the team spotted her at an inclusive online music talent hunt. Revathy has tried hands not just in violin but other musical instruments too. She is taking classes at home. “But it has been shifted to online now due to Covid pandemic”, says Revathy who has won numerous prizes and awards for her musical skills.

“I believe every person has a skill that they must identify and nourish. Utilize opportunities well and make the best out of them”, signs off Revathy.

Watch in Sign Language

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