Physically challenged teenager swims across Periyar

Born without hands, Aseem Velimanna underwent a month-long training before achieving the feat

Fifteen-year-old Aseem Velimanna’s excitement knew no bounds when he swam across a kilometre of the Periyar on Thursday morning.

Born without hands, the youngster had braved all odds to make his dream come true after undergoing a month-long training to complete the conquest of the Periyar, which began around 8.50 a.m. near the Adwaitha Ashramam ghat at Aluva.

He was trained by Saji Valasseril, who swam alongside, as Aseem’s parents, who belong to Omassery in Kozhikode, watched their child achieve the incredible feat. “This moment will always remain with us,” said an elated Mohammed Shaheed, Aseem’s father.