Singer Karthik Kumar perseveres despite autism

Twenty-year-old Kumar can sing in Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, Punjabi, Marathi, Telugu, English and Arabic, play keyboards, guitar and tabla and has committed over 2000 songs to memory. What makes these accomplishments all the more remarkable is the fact that he is autistic. But despite the disorder having restricted his communication skills, comprehension and social interaction with the outside world, it has not affected his passion for music, which his parents say he has an inherent gift for.
Karthik, who will be performing at a musical night at India Club on Saturday, June 4, wants to convey a message through his singing. "I am disabled but I have persevered and am trying to show my ability and be accepted in society. I do not want to be sympathised with for my disability," he said.
Atif Aslam is Karthik's favourite singer and he likes to sing "soulful melodies" that give him a chance to showcase his strong point - being able to reach a high crescendo.
Karthik has taken part in many school functions, concerts and other events for special needs children, singing confidently to a big audience. He's also the lead singer of the 'Ability Group', a band of children with various disabilities, and they have performed together at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature and at Wollongong University.
Apart from pursuing a career in singing, he also wants to raise awareness about autism. "It would be kind and encouraging if society is more tolerant and empathetic towards us instead of ignoring us and not giving us a chance as we don't know how to express our feelings. Accept me for what I am. I am autistic and have some inherent difficulties."
Karthik is hopeful for a bright future. "My biggest ambition is to become a renowned musician and be able to live independently," he said. (enid@khaleejtimes.com)