“I have always been interested in scribbling, writing, painting, and other creative endeavours. I eventually improved my pen-and-pencil sketching skills and used them to make amusing drawings in textbooks. I didn’t let that habit die and kept doing it. Also, I showed a keen interest in computer games and technology and found out that art can be digitalized too. I was fascinated by it and, most importantly, I loved what I did- like creating and having fun with colours and so much. During my 10th standard, I discovered that we can earn money from creating designs and it was an eye-opener for me because it allowed me to maintain my focus, earn money and be happy. Therefore, I enrolled at Hyderabad’s Annapurna College of Film and Media to pursue the graphic designing course.
Unfortunately, I had some health issues during the second year of my study, including excessive sweating, trouble eating, and a painful lump on my neck. It turned out to be bone tuberculosis, which had spread widely and was very serious. I was in a horrible state overall after starting medication, as it worsened and my kidney and liver were impacted and was unable to walk or sit or do anything. After receiving numerous opinions, therapies, and treatments; it ultimately came down to stage four Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer. I received chemotherapy right away, and it was excruciatingly painful. I began to feel like a regular person after a few sessions. But the discomfort persisted. After facing many difficulties, I began looking for work while attempting to take photos and exercise my artistic side. I eventually developed the worst back pain and noticed that it was beginning to look a little disfigured. Doctors informed me that surgery was necessary because one of the backbones had collapsed. I’m still recovering from that and have to live with the fact of two metal rods and 8 screws inserted in my back.
My family, especially my mom supported me throughout the process and gave me the courage to wake up the next day and face whatever it is. Currently, I’m freelancing full-time as a graphic designer and photographer.

All I want to say as a cancer survivor is to not lose motivation. The fact is that development is progress. You need the inspiration to grow and you need to inspire others to grow as well.”