K. THANDABANI is 79 years old. He remembers the day when it became known that he was affected with Leprosy. He was very sad and convinced his life was over. His family was frightened. He remembers how his cousins would curse at him telling him that he was endangering their family and ruining their social status. Luckily for Thandabani, his father was able to arrange a marriage for him. This way, he would not be sent to the colony alone.
His life could only get better once he discovered the Bindu Art School. He loved the idea of becoming an artist, but, at first, he did not understand that this could be his occupation! This new skill has given him a chance to help those who can not help themselves. He plans to use some of his profits to help his granddaughter pay for her college tuition.
When he first began learning how to paint – he would paint simple objects with two colors, but now that he is more advanced, he likes to paint beaches, people and nature. His favorite color is yellow because when this color is mixed with other colors, it makes them alive and more vibrant. His inspiration comes from his close observations of the people around him.
As he welcomes new artists into the school, he tells them, „This school is not really a school, it is a family! So, don’t fight with one another. A family shows love and respect!“



Colony: Bharathapuram
Name: K. THANDABANI
Sex: male
Date and place of birth: Villupuram
Age: 75
Brothers: 2
Sisters:
Married: yes
Wife's name: Kamalhi
Children: 1 boy, 1 girl
Year of infection: 1950
When did you come in the colony: 2001
You live with the family in the colony: no
Why: I live alone
The family live in Villupuram
Have you ever painted before: No
Why do you want to learn painting: to get stipend
Specials:
Are you happy to stop begging and start painting, if yes why: Yes, I love painting